Dive Brief:
- IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened a dual-branded property in Orlando, Florida, comprising Even Hotel Universal Blvd by IHG and Staybridge Suites Universal Blvd by IHG, according to a Wednesday news release.
- Located near the Universal Orlando Resort theme park, the combined 288-room hotel merges “two complementary stay experiences,” bringing “residential-style flexibility and restorative-driven comfort together under one roof,” per the release.
- The property, developed in partnership with Japan-based Daiwa House Group, marks “a significant milestone for both brands and furthers IHG’s continued expansion” in Orlando, according to the release.
Dive Insight:
Amenities at the dual-branded hotel include a 1,500-square-foot Athletic Studio, 24-hour marketplace, game room and resort-style outdoor pool, as well as laundry facilities, storage units and a courtyard with grills and pet walking areas.
“Today’s travelers are looking for stays that feel more flexible, more personalized and more aligned with how they want to live, work and recharge,” Jen Gribble, senior vice president of global marketing, premium, essentials and suites brands at IHG, said in a statement.
The 120 Even Hotel guest rooms embrace “restoration and comfort” with spa-like showers, multiple food and beverage options and “natural spaces” to promote relaxation.
Meanwhile, the 168-room Staybridge Suites aims to deliver the “comforts of home” with rooms including fully equipped kitchens and separate living spaces. The property also features outdoor gathering spaces with fire pits and grilling areas, as well as social happy hours.
In addition to Universal, the hotel is close to the Orange County Convention Center, targeting not only families but also professionals attending nearby conventions. Orlando also ranked as the top meeting destination in North America for the 11th consecutive year out of 50 markets, according to Cvent.
Over the next few years, the hotel giant plans to open new luxury and lifestyle properties in the city, including a 261-room Kimpton Orlando in 2027 and a 700-key InterContinental Orlando in 2028.
Elsewhere in Orlando, in summer 2025, IHG opened the 110-room Even Orlando International Airport, a wellness-focused property offering shuttle service to the airport, per IHG.
Other recent notable openings in Orlando include Evermore Orlando Resorts, home to Hilton’s luxury Conrad brand, as well as Villatel Orlando Resort, which hosts an Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy.
