Travel + Leisure and Wyndham Expanded Resort Partnership
The companies have grown their plan to develop branded Sports Illustrated Resorts across the United States.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Hotels
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Travel + Leisure Co. and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts have expanded their partnership to accelerate the development of Sports Illustrated Resorts. This collaboration leverages Wyndham's global infrastructure to bring the sports-themed hospitality brand to more urban markets.
Why it matters
The partnership aims to capture demand in the growing sports tourism sector by extending the Sports Illustrated brand experience into college towns and major cities. The model offers developers flexible options for building hotel-only properties or larger mixed-use complexes.
The Nashville flagship property currently features 185 suites. Future expansion plans include locations in Chicago, Baton Rouge, and Tuscaloosa, which are currently in development.
The players
Travel + Leisure Co.
This company is a prominent provider of vacation ownership and travel services globally.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
It is a major international hotel franchisor that operates a vast portfolio of properties.
Authentic Brands Group
This global brand management firm owns and licenses a wide array of media and entertainment properties.
The details
Operating under a license from Authentic Brands Group, the venture combines Travel + Leisure's development expertise with Wyndham's commercial scale. The resorts are designed to drive year-round interest by targeting high-yield travel segments.
Timeline
The Sports Illustrated Resorts concept was introduced in 2023.
The partnership expansion was announced on October 5, 2026.
The Chicago resort is expected to reach completion in early 2027.
The Baton Rouge resort is scheduled for a phased opening in late 2027.
The Tuscaloosa resort is projected to open in 2028.
Travel Outlook
This move follows the growth of the niche sports tourism sector as hotel brands seek to diversify their offerings. The strategy capitalizes on the seasonal appeal of university towns and sports-centric urban destinations.
Travelers interested in these properties can expect new, sports-themed lodging options in college and urban hubs through 2028. Prospective guests should monitor the brand's progress in Chicago, Baton Rouge, and Tuscaloosa for upcoming reservation availability.
The takeaway
The partnership demonstrates how major travel firms are increasingly relying on licensed media brands to differentiate new properties. Travelers can expect an uptick in themed accommodations as this hospitality model scales across major American markets.
Further reading
For more on industry developments, see our coverage of Hotels.
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