World's largest Travelodge wished farewell; Renovated property to become Holiday Inn

The Travelodge Hotel Main Gate East, formerly the world’s largest Travelodge, recently became the Fun Spots Hotel. "Sleepy Bear," Travelodge’s brand mascot, waved goodbye as the sign was covered to reflect the hotel’s new name and its own ownership’s brand, Fun Spots Hotel. The hotel will officially become the Holiday Inn Main Gate East, an offi cial Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel.

"The replacement of the Travelodge sign was an exciting first step as we work toward the hotel’s conversion to a Holiday Inn," said Ed Kortum, general manager of the hotel. "We are thrilled with the many renovations to the property, and look forward to continuing our tradition of catering to our guests’ needs and wants."

In addition to replacing the sign, hotel associates released balloons in honor of the property’s 21 years as the Travelodge Hotel. Many associates have been employed at the property for more than 10 years, including Ida Dangerfield (holding pink balloon, employed 21 years), Rosanne Nawrocki (holding red balloon, 17 years) and Lamercie Toussaint (holding yellow balloon in front row, 14 years).

The 444-room, full-service hotel features two high-rise towers with more than 4,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

The lobby has a new open fl oor plan that encompasses a new kids’ theater, front desk area and lobby lounge. With the new floor-to-ceiling windows, the lobby bar and lounge open into an outdoor trellis-shaded patio that overlooks the lush tropical garden and pool area.