Iconic landmark Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s Pier Sixty-Six will likely be deemed a ‘historic’ landmark. Here’s why.
Construction by RCC Associates
Being fixed up is the old tower, which would retain its Pier Top lounge, popular for live music and dance. Historically, it has rotated 360 degrees every 66 minutes at its top level. Visitors were reminded if they get up and dance, or walk out to the balcony, their seats will not be in the same place when they return.
Pier Top is still expected to rotate when it opens in the fall of this year but the new rotation is still in the development phase. “It can and will spin; however, it is not defined how often at this stage,” according to a developer spokeswoman.
It is described by the developer as an “iconic revolving lounge” that “is destined to become Fort Lauderdale’s preeminent cocktail lounge once again, with spectacular views across the vast Atlantic Ocean, Port Everglades, Intracoastal Waterway, and the lights of downtown Fort Lauderdale. The atmosphere will be glamorous, with cinematic views over the horizon.”
The developer is adding an 11-story, 325-room hotel behind the tower (10 stories for the resort and one for parking), and pool areas for families and adults within the 32-acre resort. Hotel bookings will soon become available, with an anticipated opening in the fall, according to the developer.
The Pier Sixty-Six Marina, which has 164 slips that can accommodate vessels up to 400 feet long, has stayed open throughout the expansion. A new Marina Promenade at the base of the condominium buildings will feature restaurants, shops, and offices along the waterway.
From here, if the owners and city see fit, the property could go on to get national historic designation, said Patricia Zeiler, executive director of History Fort Lauderdale, formerly the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society.
*Two of the main restaurants on property are being built by RCC Associates.
