The vibrant city of Fort Lauderdale has witnessed a remarkable transformation with the reopening of Pier Sixty-Six on January 10, 2023. After nearly seven years of dormancy due to Hurricane Irma’s devastating impact, this iconic resort has emerged anew, standing taller and bolder than ever. Originally founded in 1965, Pier Sixty-Six has long been a cornerstone of Fort Lauderdale’s tourism landscape. Although the restoration nods to its storied past with the midcentury modern tower intact, much of the resort has evolved, delivering an upscale experience that is both contemporary and luxuriously inviting.
Previously shuttered for redevelopment in 2017, Pier Sixty-Six has undergone a metamorphosis under the auspices of Orlando’s Tavistock Group. The resort’s revival was initially set to commence in early 2020, but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced a strategic pause. This interruption turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it allowed the developers to re-envision an even grander resort experience than first planned.
Luxury Redefined: Facilities & Amenities
Standing on a sprawling 32-acre expanse, Pier Sixty-Six aims to redefine relaxation through an atmosphere of suave luxury. Featuring 325 revamped rooms and a plethora of lavish amenities, the resort promises an engagement with the water and a lifestyle that prioritizes marine experiences. Envisioned with architectural elements of Mediterranean influences and midcentury modern design principles, the ambiance is curated for a serene getaway.
Among the new features is a private club, complete with its own pool, and residents can opt for properties priced between $3.65 million to $12 million. The resort anticipates completion of 12 unique dining establishments that represent the culinary traditions of France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and the eastern Mediterranean. Amidst these offerings is the remarkable Calusso, boasting an exhibition kitchen and a coveted chef’s table that promises an interactive dining experience.
With a keen focus on maximizing space, the resort ensures that guests experience a sense of unrestricted openness. High ceilings paired with expansive, fold-open windows meld indoor and outdoor experiences. Each dining venue caters to both locals and tourists, recognizing the importance of accessibility within the resort’s design as facilitated by dedicated road branches and ease of access for vehicles.
Elevating Experiences: The Pier Top Lounge
Easily one of the resort’s most exhilarating features is the return of the Pier Top revolving lounge perched atop the original tower. Since its opening in 1965, this unique establishment has been a beacon for diners seeking panoramic views of the city skyline. With plans for the lounge to offer a rotating experience once more, anticipation is high for its debut, expected in March 2023. As the excitement burgeons, rave reviews from past guests and lovers of Fort Lauderdale spark a dialogue around its nostalgic significance.
The architectural ethos of the resort carries a storied legacy, initiated back when the property housed a marina fuel dock established by the Phillips 66 gasoline chain. Renowned architect Richard F. Humble wove space-age aesthetics into the initial design, a charm that has been lovingly revived. Guests have already expressed interest in reserving the same rooms they cherished in years gone by, making their anticipated return even more sentimental.
An Inviting Hub for Events and Relaxation
Pier Sixty-Six is not just designed for vacationers; it also serves as an attractive venue for high-profile events, conferences, and conventions. With a sprawling 42,000 square feet of flexible event space across three ballrooms, the resort caters to a diverse clientele. Its largest ballroom is capable of accommodating up to 600 guests, making it an excellent choice for various gatherings, from corporate meetings to celebratory events.
Despite its luxurious offerings, the resort gracefully sidesteps one notable element: direct beach access. However, the management insists that guests need not fret; transportation options will facilitate easy access to nearby sandy stretches. With incentives for travel agents and rave endorsements from industry professionals, such as Valerie Wilson, CEO of Valerie Wilson Travel, there is little doubt that Pier Sixty-Six will quickly regain its status as a favored destination in Florida.
Rooms at the resort start at $599 for a standard king, escalating to an opulent presidential suite priced at $5,000 per night, presenting panoramic views that take in Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways and the Atlantic. By blending nostalgia with modern elegance and meticulously curated experiences, Pier Sixty-Six positions itself as both a refuge and a vibrant social hub—truly a destination that complements the sunny disposition of South Florida.
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