Champions World Resort

Champions World Resort was a resort on 15 acres in Kissimmee, Florida known for its amenities, proximity to Orlando, and abrupt closing. It featured 435 family-friendly rooms spread over 2 floors and was within a short drive to multiple amusement parks, so it was convenient for family vacations to Orlando. If families didn’t want to drive themselves, a complimentary shuttle service was available to transport guests to and from shopping and nearby attractions. Once back at the resort, guests could relax in the comfort of their rooms or relax poolside at one of the 3 pools with a cocktail from the tiki bar. If the guests were still up for more excitement, they could hit the athletic courts or fields and play all sorts of sports with old friends, family, and new friends. Whether it was a tennis match, throwing passes back and forth with a football, bumping, setting, and spiking volleyballs, or teaming up for a bout of lacrosse, Champions World Resort had the space and equipment available for many sports, so it was a good place to get exercise while bonding with fellow guests.

Champions World Resort was formerly the Orlando Howard Johnson Maingate Resort West, built in 1972. The Orlando Howard Johnson Maingate Resort West property might have started with few amenities and added them over the years. Eventually, it featured 3 pools, a children’s wading pool, a spa, a fitness center, a game room, the Copper Turtle Restaurant & Lounge, the Golden Nugget Restaurant & Sports Bar, the Circus Super Buffet, ACE PLUS Buffet, 2 tennis courts, a marching band field, an athletic field, shuffleboard, and a half-court basketball area. Sometimes there were specials such as a $10 per night gasoline rebate in 2001, $89-189 golf packages in 2001, and $49 per night bed & breakfast packages in 2004. Orlando Howard Johnson Maingate Resort West underwent a renovation in 2005 and replaced the furniture, mattresses, and carpeting in the guest rooms. Upon becoming Champions World Resort, the property boasted its new look, new furniture, and new mattresses in the guest rooms, but it’s possible they had the same furniture and mattresses as Orlando Howard Johnson Maingate Resort West. Champions World Resort took over ownership around 2008, and it continued to be Champions World Resort and provide fun, relaxation, exercise, and comradery for over a decade. At the beginning of April 2021, though, things changed. The guests were kicked out of their rooms. Employees were terminated immediately.
It was no April Fool’s joke.
Hundreds of people were forced out suddenly one day.

What happened?
Champions World Resort was sold. The property was supposed to be vacant per the terms of the sale, so rooms had to be empty.

Were Champions World Resort guests notified of the closure?
Current guests found out suddenly that they were to vacate their rooms. They had to leave that same day.
New guests found out when they arrived and couldn’t check in.

Why was the staff fired?
Upon sale, the property was no longer Champions World Resort and wasn’t even going to be run as a resort or hotel. The staff was no longer needed.

What is Champions World Resort going to become?
The property might be turned into condos. More information might be available in the future. Check later for updates.