Walt Disney World Resort is about to face serious competition for tourist dollars in Central Florida. A massive new entertainment complex is rising just down the road from Disney property, promising to deliver dining, shopping, and hotel experiences that could rival Disney Springs. The $1 billion Ovation Orlando Entertainment District secured a crucial approval on December 30, clearing the final hurdle before construction begins.
$73 Million Deal Finalizes After Three-Year Wait
South Florida development company Accesso closed a $73 million purchase on December 30, 2025, acquiring the abandoned Orlando Sun resort site. The property has sat empty since the resort shut down in 2012, but Accesso sees enormous potential in the location.
The developer had the land under contract for three years while navigating regulatory approvals and financing arrangements. The December 30 sale finally gave Accesso permission to proceed with its construction plans.
Bill Shewalter, Executive Vice President of Accesso Development, expressed relief to GrowthSpotter following the deal's completion:
“I feel very relieved, but I also want to say that I was always very confident that this team would be able to pull this project together. The confidence was due to the location, a mile east of Disney across from Celebration on Interstate 4 at a full interchange in the most dynamic tourist market in the country, and on the theme park corridor, which is arguably the most successful retail quarter of highway in America.”
Demolition Starts Within Weeks
Accesso plans to demolish the former Orlando Sun resort in two weeks, clearing space for the Ovation Orlando Entertainment District. The 670,000-square-foot development will include 740 hotel rooms and condominiums, multiple music-themed restaurants, various other dining concepts, and additional entertainment venues.
The complete project is estimated to carry a $1 billion price tag. Osceola County government is supporting the development through a demolition incentive package worth up to $6.5 million in reimbursements, reducing Accesso's upfront costs.
2027 Opening Targeted
The Ovation Orlando Entertainment District website lists 2027 as the projected opening year, though Accesso hasn't committed to a specific grand opening date. The timeline suggests that construction will take approximately two years once demolition is complete.
The location poses a direct threat to Walt Disney World Resort‘s dominance in tourism. Sitting just one mile east of Disney property across from Celebration on Interstate 4, Ovation Orlando Entertainment District will intercept tourists traveling along the theme park corridor. Visitors staying at the complex's 740 hotel rooms and condos may choose to spend time and money there instead of venturing to the Disney Springs shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
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