ORLANDO, Fla. — It was a project 10 years in the making. The expansion of the iconic Peabody Hotel is finally complete. For the first time, WFTV went inside the massive $450 million addition on International Drive Wednesday.
Those in the business told WFTV they feel the four-star hotel could change the perception of Central Florida.
It is a project that was put on hold because of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and the recession. But now, after a decade of delays, Orlando has a four-star hotel on I-Drive.
"That four-star hotel is a product that was missing for us to move forward as a solid convention destination," said Danielle Courtenay, Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The new Peabody Orlando isn't alone. There are also two new Hilton hotels and a Waldorf Astoria. The result: the perception of Orlando convention and tourism is changing.
"Anybody that's been to Orlando, that has stayed on I-Drive in a few areas that are supposedly nice that are not that nice, having the Peabody will be a welcome addition," said Ray Murphy, convention visitor.
"We run convention shuttles throughout the United States and the people I've talked with have been really thrilled with the new Hilton and Peabody expansion. We're getting a lot of positive comments," said Cheryl Gannon, convention shuttle operator.
The hotel will be sold out September 29.
"Things are picking up and we are getting quite a few inquiries," said Greg Herning, Peabody Hotel V.P. of sales marketing.
The Peabody says its ducks are in a row and is betting nearly a half-billion dollars on it.
The Convention and Visitors Bureau says Orlando occupancy was up year-to-year in August. The Peabody says there are 400 other people being hired to run the hotel and convention center.