The new Super Pool is a part of the $92 million dollar renovation recently completed at Saddlebrook Resort Tampa.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort in Tampa that just got a major glow-up, lis super close to Tampa, checks all the boxes for a relaxing weekend, let me introduce you to Saddlebrook Resort in North Tampa {a.k.a. Wesley Chapel (about 30 minutes north of Tampa)}. I’ve known about this resort for years after moving into Land O’ Lakes in the early 90’s. Back then, it was a VERY exclusive “country club” in Pasco. I recently got a peek at their all-new vibe, and trust me — it’s tailor-made for families, anyone who wants to get away and those “let’s do something together but also let’s lay by the pool all day” escapes. Here’s the low-down, full of tips, teen-friendly ideas, and mama-approved moments.
What’s New: The Big Renovation
Saddlebrook just completed a $92 million renovation that touches nearly everything — rooms, dining, pools, sports, and more. The resort now features 4 new on-site dining concepts that will allow guests the opportunity to stay on property for amazing dining experiences: RARE 1981, BREW, Palmhaus and a sports tavern set to open in early 2026. Saddlebrook also refreshed their event space with more than 200,000 square feet of halls that are made to wow the conference goers. The ability to seemlessly go from
The resort also is now allowing those who want a membership to use amenities the ability to purchase access to their pool, golf, tennis and pickleball facilities.
Here are the standout updates:
- All 451 rooms and suites have been redesigned with fresh woods, neutral tones + navy accents, and each features a private patio or balcony — hello fresh air and space for the kids to chill. They come in various layouts, but we loved the 2 bedroom with a kitchen style for any family!
- The lobby got a complete makeover: more light, better seating, a clear transition from “arrival” to “vacation mode.” The new sports bar will be opening up in this area in early 2026 and Rare 1981 is the steakhouse that is right off the lobby.
- The pool scene? Massive. Stunning. Beautiful. Right out of a magazine. And on point for competing with the best of the best here in Florida. The “Super Pool” has been reimagined with lagoon-style design, private cabanas, expansive lounge areas – perfect for both kids and parents wanting a true resort experience with a luxury feel.
- Dining got upgraded in a big way: four new concepts (casual + upscale) cater to different moods (family lunch, poolside bites, date night, etc.). All 4 concepts will definitely keep the guests on property. No reason to leave!
- Sports and recreation got extra love: new pickleball courts, revamped driving range/golf layouts, lots of active-family energy.
Pro Travel Tip: With kids, the private patios and separate rooms mean they can have their own “hang-out zone” while you relax. The rooms are also in very close proximity to the pools and restaurants.
From what I am reading, this is just the beginning of the comeback of the Saddlebrook Resort era. Back in the 90’s, this resort was a crown jewel in quiet Pasco County shaping the likes of Pete Sampras and many others who visited this slice of paradise in the quiet outskirts of Tampa, where he could practice in peace. With a new town center in development, we can’t wait to see future plans of residential homes, retail and office space transform the area even more.
Very excited to see this resort come back to its roots as a hidden gem of a resort. Book this resort when you need a little R&R, a quiet family getaway when you don’t want to drive 200 miles from home, or with your bestie on a weekend. Saddlebrook Resort Tampa will definitely be a place on our list to visit when we need to get away.
Can’t wait to visit again. It’s been too long.
*I was invited as a member of the media for the ribbon cutting ceremony and was provided a tour of the hotel. To read my honestly policy on all collaborations, please click here.
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