Disney Plans 500-Room Hotel Near Washington D.C.?

Back in 2007, I reported on a news article that Disney was eying to build hotels in other parts of the country and maybe even smaller theme parks. Nothing came of it, or at least, I haven't heard of anything of it.

Until now.

The Washington Post is reporting that Disney has bought a 15-acre land in the Washington DC area with plans to build a 500-room hotel.

Disney plans to build a 500-room hotel resort on the parcel, providing another anchor for a 300-acre venture that seeks to rival the District as a conference and convention destination. National Harbor already includes six hotels; more than a dozen restaurants; and a giant conference center run by Gaylord Entertainment, owner of the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

Business, though, has been slowed by the recession, and many of the 400 residences at National Harbor have not been sold. A Disney spokesman said the company will almost certainly go ahead with the project despite the economic climate, but the company did not provide a timetable.

Hum... this is certain a bold move during this turbulent economic climate. Still, if they also build a World of Disney Store there, I might just drop by if I'm ever in the neighborhood. :)

Zz.