Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel Opens as South Florida’s New Landmark for Luxury and Events

Published on December 19, 2025

The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel officially opens its doors, setting a new standard for luxury and events in South Florida. Located along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, this state-of-the-art hotel offers 801 elegantly appointed rooms, including 82 suites, and more than 120,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Its grand debut not only marks the brand’s flagship presence in Greater Fort Lauderdale but also establishes the hotel as a premier destination for both leisure and corporate travelers. With its prime location, world-class amenities, and seamless access to the Broward County Convention Center, Omni Fort Lauderdale is poised to become the region’s defining landmark for sophisticated coastal hospitality and event hosting.

“Today’s opening marks an exciting new chapter for Broward County and Omni,” said Kurt Alexander, President of Omni Hotels & Resorts. “We are deeply grateful to the Broward County Board of Commissioners for their vision and leadership, as well as to our construction, design, and development partners whose collaboration brought this hotel to life – marking Omni’s proud return to South Florida after more than 20 years.”

Located along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel is a stunning blend of modern luxury and convenience. With 801 elegantly appointed guest rooms, including 82 suites, the hotel offers an exceptional stay for visitors. Guests can enjoy seven distinctive dining venues, a full-service Mokara Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and over 120,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. The hotel’s expansive pool deck offers sweeping views of the waterway and city skyline, further enhancing the luxurious experience. With direct access to the Broward County Convention Center, the hotel is perfectly positioned for easy access to the city’s top attractions, including pristine beaches, Port Everglades Cruise Terminal, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, all just minutes away.

“It is with immense pride that we open our doors and welcome our first guests to Omni Fort Lauderdale,” said Gayla Guyse, General Manager of Omni Fort Lauderdale. “Our prime waterfront location, exceptional amenities, and seamless integration with the convention center uniquely position us as a premier meetings and leisure destination on a global scale. This allows us to drive meaningful economic impact, continue to create professional opportunities for our community, and deliver the award-winning service that defines the Omni experience.”

This milestone represents a collaborative effort between Omni Hotels & Resorts, Broward County, Visit Lauderdale, and Matthews Southwest. As the centerpiece of the Broward County Convention Center’s ongoing expansion, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel plays a significant role in the economic development of the region. The project is expected to generate more than $450 million for the local economy and create over 3,000 full- and part-time jobs, further cementing the city’s position as a leading hub for conventions and tourism.

The design of the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel, created by Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects in partnership with Balfour Beatty and Stantec, draws inspiration from Florida’s natural landscapes. The architectural vision and interior design pay homage to the 19th-century “Barefoot Mailmen,” who navigated Florida’s beaches and marshes to deliver mail, embodying the spirit of exploration and connection. This tribute to Florida’s history is reflected in the hotel’s contemporary design, blending elegance with a sense of place that captures the essence of the state.

As the newest hub for Greater Fort Lauderdale’s conventions and meetings, the hotel offers over 120,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space. The 30,000-square-foot Waterway Ballroom, the largest ballroom in the region, serves as the hotel’s grand centerpiece. The ballroom features an expansive outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Additionally, the hotel offers the 15,000-square-foot Port Everglades Ballroom, 47 distinct meeting spaces, 27 breakout rooms, and multiple outdoor terraces across three levels, making it an ideal destination for conferences, conventions, and corporate events.

Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel also promises an unforgettable dining experience under the direction of Executive Chef Cristian Mosquera, a Greater Fort Lauderdale native. The hotel’s culinary offerings highlight regional ingredients and international flavors, with six dining options catering to a variety of tastes:

• Fair Ketch: A vibrant sports bar featuring a Topgolf Swing Suite for added entertainment.
• Reef 76 Kitchen & Bar: A signature restaurant offering coastal cuisine with a Caribbean twist.
• Ibis Sky Lounge: A rooftop lounge providing stunning views and expertly crafted cocktails.
• Hidden Key: A sophisticated lobby bar with indoor and outdoor waterfront seating.
• Tide Coastal Kitchen: A poolside retreat exclusively for hotel guests.
• Leeward Market: A café offering coffee, pastries, and grab-and-go options.

The hotel’s wellness offerings include the Mokara Spa, a tranquil sanctuary inspired by Florida’s natural springs. Spanning over 8,500 square feet, the spa features eight treatment rooms, a Hammam, a steam room, and a relaxation lounge. Adjacent to the spa, the expansive resort-style pool deck—one of the largest in the area—offers breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding cityscape, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel sets a new standard for luxury and convenience in the region, offering a premier destination for business, leisure, and events. With its strategic location, world-class amenities, and architectural design inspired by Florida’s natural beauty, the hotel is sure to be a key player in the future growth of Fort Lauderdale as a leading tourism and meetings destination.