Ryman Hospitality Properties is set to acquire the Grande Lakes Orlando Resort in a landmark $1.38 billion transaction, marking one of the most significant deals in Florida’s luxury hospitality sector. This sprawling 409-acre complex, renowned for its combination of upscale accommodations and a championship golf course, stands as a premier destination in Orlando’s competitive resort market.
The resort features two iconic hotel brands, the JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton, alongside the Greg Norman-designed Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, which annually hosts the prestigious PNC Championship. This unique golf event showcases two-person teams composed of current and former PGA and LPGA Tour professionals paired with family members, with Matt Kuchar and his son Cameron claiming victory in the 2025 edition. Marriott International will maintain operational control of the hotels under their existing luxury brands, ensuring continuity in service and guest experience.
Mark Fioravanti, President and CEO of Ryman Hospitality Properties, highlighted the strategic value of the acquisition, stating, “Grande Lakes is a terrific asset and one that fits all of our ownership criteria. The transaction strengthens our JW Marriott and Gaylord Hotels customer rotation strategies, expands our presence in the nation’s top meetings market and creates the opportunity for meaningful portfolio synergies.” He further emphasized that the purchase advances Ryman’s JW Marriott platform, establishing a nationwide rotational network and introducing Ritz-Carlton as a new luxury brand within their portfolio. This move provides access to high-value customer segments and unique insights that support long-term value creation.
The property recently underwent a comprehensive $150 million renovation, enhancing guest rooms, meeting spaces, and public areas. It boasts 1,592 rooms, 320,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, a 40,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, and 14 dining venues, positioning it as a premier locale for both leisure and business travelers.
Trinity Investments, the current owner, originally purchased the resort in December 2018 for $870 million. Sean Hehir, Managing Partner, President, and CEO of Trinity, reflected on the sale, saying, “This transaction is a testament to Trinity’s ability to identify complex, large-scale opportunities and execute on a value-add plan that meaningfully repositions the asset. We’re immensely proud of what our team has accomplished and excited to see the resort’s next chapter.”
The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, cementing a new era for the Grande Lakes Orlando Resort under Ryman Hospitality Properties’ ownership while preserving Marriott International’s operational management. This acquisition not only reinforces Ryman’s footprint in Florida’s luxury resort market but also highlights the enduring appeal of the Grande Lakes property as a premier venue for world-class golf and hospitality.
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