Did you know that Sports Illustrated has hotels? No, you didn't.

When most of us think of Sports Illustrated, we think about the iconic magazine (and perhaps the scandalous calendar I used to see hung in my uncle's garage). We also might think of their shameful scheme where fake AI profiles "created" content for them. But nobody, and I mean nobody, associates Sports Illustrated with hotel resorts.

That's about to change.

What are Sports Illustrated Resorts?

Described as being "where champions come to stay," Sports Illustrated Resorts are lifestyle and leisure destinations inspired by the iconic Sports Illustrated brand, blending sports culture with travel and hospitality. They aim to create immersive, experience-driven stays for guests who love the energy of sports, wellness, and entertainment.

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Rather than simply offering a place to sleep, these resorts focus on delivering the atmosphere of a game day celebration—whether that’s through sports-themed design, fitness amenities, live events, or curated experiences that highlight the spirit of athletic achievement and storytelling. The properties typically include upscale accommodations, signature fitness centers, resort-style pools, and exclusive lounges, with some even featuring themed dining and entertainment inspired by the magazine’s rich legacy.

Where are Sports Illustrated Resorts?

The brand debuted in the Caribbean with a resort in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, and is now expanding into the U.S., with upcoming properties in Nashville and Tuscaloosa—both chosen for their strong ties to music, sports, and collegiate culture.

Travel + Leisure Co. actually owns the Sports Illustrated Brand, and when they announced the new Nashville resort (set to open in spring 2026), they noted that it is perfectly positioned along Music Row in the heart of Midtown.

Nashville Sports Illustrated Resort

The resort will offer easy access to downtown’s honky-tonks in addition to The Gulch neighborhood's trendy eateries, and Nashville’s legendary live music scene. The property promises a dynamic blend of leisure and lifestyle amenities, including a resort-style outdoor pool, a grab-and-go dining spot, an exclusive members-only lounge, and a signature fitness center.

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“Nashville is a city where the thrill of game day and the energy of live entertainment go hand in hand,” said Geoff Richards, chief operating officer at Travel + Leisure Co in a discussion with TravelPulse. “This new resort will let sports fans immerse themselves in both, with a space that channels game day spirit and legendary sports storytelling.”

The Nashville opening follows the brand’s Caribbean debut in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, and precedes another stateside expansion—this time to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where Sports Illustrated Resorts will break ground in spring 2026.

Yahoo CreatorCassandra BrooklynI'm Cassandra, a freelance writer, guidebook author, and photographer who loves all things outdoors. I've written for The New York Times, National Geographic, Wall Street Journal, Lonely Planet, Travel + Leisure, and dozens more. My work tends to focus on sustainability, accessibility, and the outdoors and I have a special love for hiking, biking, and kayaking. I started as a solo traveler, now do a lot of family travel, and also multi-gen and accessible travel.FollowFollow