Sports Illustrated Resorts 2026 Picks Chicago as Third US Location With 250 Units Planned

Chicago will soon add a new kind of getaway to its world-famous sports and entertainment scene as Travel + Leisure Co. plans a vibrant resort in the heart of the city.

Immersive Sports-Themed Hospitality Heads to the Loop

Travel + Leisure Co. and Sports Illustrated Resorts have revealed plans for a flagship resort in downtown Chicago. Set in the Loop along the Chicago River—just steps from Michigan Avenue—the property will convert an existing hotel into a year-round haven of championship spirit and modern amenities. This marks the brand’s third U.S. location, joining announced resorts in Nashville, Tennessee and Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

With its deep-rooted sports culture, Chicago is the ideal backdrop. The city is home to the nation’s oldest ballpark, the NFL’s storied stadium, the largest arena in the country, and over 40 championship trophies across 11 major teams.

A Celebration of Sports, History, and Urban Energy

The new Sports Illustrated Resort will offer approximately 250 units and reimagine its historic financial institution lobby with preserved grand staircases, striking imagery, and contemporary sports-inspired design. The resort will feature a signature fitness center, private owner’s lounge, modern full-service restaurant, street-level coffee shop, and a lively on-site sports bar—each created to reflect Chicago’s legendary team spirit.

Geoff Richards, chief operating officer at Travel + Leisure Co., said:
“Chicago is where legends are made. With more than 40 championship trophies across 11 professional and college teams, this city breathes sports in a way few places can match, with a passion that runs through generations of fans. With this new resort, we’re creating a destination where that same championship spirit lives year-round, combining the rich storytelling tradition of Sports Illustrated with the unmatched energy that makes Chicago home to some of the world’s most devoted fans.”

Flexible Ownership and Ongoing Access

The property—currently operating as a hotel—remains open throughout the construction process, so fans can experience its “preseason” era beginning this winter. Official project completion and the full Sports Illustrated Resorts experience are scheduled for late 2026. Flexible, points-based ownership options will launch for presale in early 2026, offering both full-ownership and vacation club memberships designed for the new generation of lifestyle travelers.

A Growing National Footprint

Chicago’s addition builds upon Sports Illustrated Resorts’ multi-brand growth strategy and demonstrates the brand’s ambition to elevate iconic sports cities around the country. Rooted in over 70 years of Sports Illustrated history—including more than 100 magazine covers spotlighting Chicago athletes and teams—the new resort aims to unite classic memorabilia with curated, contemporary sports culture.

Plan Your Visit

Expect dynamic events, tailored amenities for sports fans, and a unique blend of city exploration and athletic excitement. Find updates and opening news at sportsillustratedresorts.com and follow along on Instagram for insider previews and pre-opening offers.

From the riverfront to the stands and everywhere in between, Sports Illustrated Resorts promises to add a new dimension to Chicago’s sports and leisure experience—one that lives up to the city’s legendary reputation for passion and play.