Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel Opens Its Doors
Omni Hotels & Resorts has proudly announced the opening of the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel, following a ceremonial ribbon-cutting event held on Thursday. This new addition comes as part of the expansion of the Broward County Convention Center District, marking an exciting milestone in the area’s development. The hotel’s launch has been realized through collaboration with Broward County, Visit Lauderdale, and developer Matthews Southwest, showcasing a collective effort to enhance the local hospitality landscape.
A New Era for Broward County
Kurt Alexander, president of Omni Hotels & Resorts, expressed enthusiasm about this important opening. “Today’s opening marks an exciting new chapter for Broward County and Omni,” he stated. Alexander emphasized gratitude towards the Broward County Board of Commissioners for their leadership, along with the many construction, design, and development partners who played crucial roles in bringing the hotel to life. Notably, this marks Omni’s return to South Florida after a two-decade hiatus, highlighting the significance of its revival in this vibrant region.
Luxurious Amenities and Accommodations
Located along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel features a stunning array of 801 guest rooms, including 82 luxurious suites. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options across seven unique venues, unwind at the Mokara Spa, or maintain an active lifestyle with the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center. Additionally, the hotel boasts over 120,000 square feet of meeting and event space, making it an ideal venue for gatherings of all sizes. A rooftop pool deck provides a relaxing escape, while its proximity to Port Everglades Cruise Terminal and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport ensures that travel remains convenient.
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel serves as the anchor for the expanded convention center district, addressing the growing demand for on-site accommodations during large-scale events. This development is projected to generate more than $450 million for the local economy and create over 3,000 jobs, both full-time and part-time. Such contributions underscore the hotel’s role in fostering community development and economic vitality.
A Vision of Excellence
Impressively, Gayla Guyse, the general manager of Omni Fort Lauderdale, expressed unwavering pride in the hotel’s launch. She shared, “It is with immense pride that we open our doors and welcome our first guests to Omni Fort Lauderdale.” Guyse emphasized the hotel’s prime waterfront location, exceptional amenities, and seamless integration with the convention center, positioning it as a premier destination for both meetings and leisure travel. Her vision extends beyond hospitality, aiming to create meaningful economic impact and professional opportunities within the community.
Thoughtful Design Inspired by Nature
The architectural design of the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel was crafted by Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects, with Balfour Beatty as the design builder and Stantec serving as the architect of record. The interior was thoughtfully designed by EoA Group, drawing inspiration from Florida’s landscapes and the historical journey of the Barefoot Mailmen. The design reflects movement from land through waterways to the open water, creating a unique spatial experience for visitors.
Meeting and Event Facilities
Offering an extensive range of facilities, the hotel is equipped with more than 120,000 square feet dedicated to meetings and events. This includes the grand Port Everglades Ballroom, various breakout rooms, and outdoor terraces that connect seamlessly with the convention center, catering to diverse event needs and enhancing the guest experience.
Culinary Delights
Leading the culinary operations is executive chef Cristian Mosquera. The hotel features several dining venues, including Fair Ketch, Reef 76 Kitchen & Bar, Ibis Sky Lounge, Hidden Key, Tide Coastal Kitchen, and Leeward Market, each offering a unique dining experience. An Italian chophouse is also slated to open in 2026, expanding the culinary options available to guests.
Wellness and Recreation
For those prioritizing wellness, the Mokara Spa spans over 8,500 square feet on the top level, providing an exquisite range of treatments in its dedicated treatment rooms, Hammam, steam room, and relaxation lounge. The nearby fitness center and pool deck are designed to round out the hotel’s commitment to wellness and recreation, making it an ideal spot for guests seeking relaxation alongside their business endeavors.
Through its luxurious offerings and strategic location, Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel aims to redefine the hospitality experience in South Florida, welcoming guests with warmth and exceptional service.