Once a thriving destination, now a haunting reminder of times gone by, slowly grown over by Florida's flora and fading memories.
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Once a beacon of luxury and a bustling tourist hub, the Orlando Sun Resort now stands as a haunting reminder of what it once was. Located just outside the gates of Walt Disney World, this sprawling resort has a rich history filled with ambition, success, and eventual decline.
Tucked away in the bustling city of Orlando, Florida, lies the remnants of a once-thriving resort that promised sun-kissed vacations and unforgettable memories. The Orlando Sun Resort, a 292-room hotel and timeshare complex, was a beloved destination for families and travelers alike. However, after decades of operation, the resort's shine began to fade, leaving behind a hauntingly abandoned relic of a bygone era.
A Grand Beginning The story of the Orlando Sun Resort began in the early 1970s when the Carolando Corporation, a group of North Carolina investors, saw an opportunity to capitalize on Orlando's burgeoning tourism industry. Construction started in 1970, and by 1972, the resort opened its doors as the Hyatt Orlando Resort. With over 900 rooms, it was the largest hotel in the area at the time, offering a prime location for visitors to Disney World.
The Golden Years Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the resort thrived. It was a popular destination for families visiting Disney World, and its proximity to the theme park made it an attractive option for tourists. The resort featured multiple restaurants, a convention center, and even plans for the tallest observation tower in Florida.
During its heyday, the Orlando Sun Resort was a popular choice for families and budget-conscious travelers. Its amenities included a large pool, water park, mini-golf course, and a restaurant serving classic American fare. The resort's proximity to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and other major attractions made it an attractive option for those seeking a convenient and affordable base for their Orlando vacation.
The resort faced further challenges in the early 2000s. In September 2003, the Hyatt abruptly closed its doors, leaving employees jobless and guests without refunds. The property was later purchased by the Moinian Group, which reopened in 2007 as the Orlando Sun Resort and Convention Center.
In 2009, the resort's timeshare component was plagued by allegations of fraud and mismanagement, leading to a wave of lawsuits and negative publicity. The resort's reputation suffered, and bookings plummeted. By 2012, the Orlando Sun Resort had closed its doors, leaving behind a trail of unpaid bills, broken dreams, and a once-thriving property in disarray.
The Present and Future Today, the Orlando Sun Resort remains abandoned, with nature slowly reclaiming the once-luxurious grounds. The decaying buildings and overgrown landscaping serve as a bleak contrast to the vibrant history of the resort.
Despite its abandonment, the Orlando Sun Resort remains a popular destination for urban explorers and photographers, who flock to the site to capture its eerie beauty. However, the property's current state is a far cry from its former splendor, and the question on everyone's mind is: What's next for this beloved relic?
Forward Together As Orlando Sun Resort rests on the brink of a new chapter, it remains a poignant reminder of the tourism industry's ever-changing nature and the resilience of its surrounding community.
The abandoned resort continues to stand as a reminder of the city's past, the fleeting nature of time, and the importance of preserving our history. Whether it is restored to its former glory or left to crumble, the Orland Sun Resort will forever be a part of the city's identity.
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