Restoring A Classic: $10 Million Remodeling, Redesigning And Refashioning Begins At Old Town USA

Revised August 6, 2015

The early phase of an extensive multi-phased refurbishment project totaling $10 million dollars has begun at Old Town USA, one of Kissimmee’s premier travel and lifestyle destinations. Built in 1986, the property is renowned for its weekly themed classic car cruises and recently celebrated its 25th anniversary of the Saturday Nite Cruise, featuring over 480 classic cars, street performers and more than 7,000 people in attendance. Dubbed “Restoring A Classic,” the owners, employees and retailers of Old Town are committed to reinvigorating curb appeal and enhancing the guest experience through improvements and renovations to parking lots, building facades, landscaping, restrooms, marketing programs, retail offerings and more.  

“We are in the process of returning the property to its former glory and splendor,” said Brett Tollman, CEO of The Travel Corporation, the new owner of Old Town. “Old Town has a nostalgic appeal, creating many special memories for visitors over the last 30 years and we are committed to enhancing that experience for many years to come.”

Several improvements are now visible in the initial phase of the renovation project. The buildings are being painted the original colors, providing a noticeable impact and are a fitting tribute to the mid-twentieth century architecture, re-creating an American town. In addition, existing parking lots have been repaved, restrooms have been beautifully remodeled, landscaping has been upgraded and by fall 2015, a vacant lot adjacent to the property will be paved to accommodate an additional 1,000 vehicles.  

“As a property that melds the worlds of tourism and retail, the improvements are being scheduled during times that are least intrusive to guests and tenants,” said General Manager Chris Spicer. “Every day reveals more progress and it’s exciting for us to be a part of the emergence of a new era for Old Town and to share that with area businesses, locals and tourists.”

A 10-acre collection of independently owned shops, restaurants and attractions, Old Town has historically drawn locals and tourists looking for an alternative to Orlando’s theme parks. A variety of restaurants offering outdoor seating make Old Town a great place for lunch or dinner. An eclectic mix of shops among four blocks of shade trees are picture-perfect for shopping and taking a leisurely stroll during the hotter times of the day. The combination of weekly car shows, special events, free admission, live entertainment and attractions, such as a haunted house, arcade and magic hall, make Old Town the perfect destination for afternoon and late night family fun. Plans are underway for the next phase of development and include a dramatic remodeled entrance with a “wow” factor, which includes bringing back the iconic Ferris wheel in a new modern version, themed restaurants, exciting rides, an outdoor concert stage and event venue and a farmer’s market. Old Town is also actively seeking exciting seasonal and event opportunities to add to the merchandise mix and guest experience. As part of the strategy, The Travel Corporation retained the services of JLL to lease and manage the property in addition to overseeing the redevelopment and parking expansion project.  

“Our goal is to take the owner’s vision to restore Old Town and bring that vision to life – creating a new and exciting experience for guests,” shared John Lambert, Executive Vice President and Florida Retail Market Lead for JLL.

Merchants interested in leasing seasonal or long-term space should contact JLL Retail Brokerage Associate Brandon Delanois at (407) 982-8648 or Brandon.Delanois@am.jll.com.

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