History of the Club

The Vinoy has a rich history of excellence and revival. Take a look at what an inspired journey it has been and will continue to be with you.

1880s: The Vinoy's bayside property is purchased for $35.

1920: The Coffeepot Golf Club is designed and built by J. Franklin Meehan, who worked with renowned golf course architect, A.W. Tillinghast.

1923: Aymer Vinoy Laughner, accompanied by his friends, Gene Eliot and golfing legend Walter Hagen, conceives the idea for The Vinoy Park Hotel.

1925: The Vinoy Park Hotel opens on December 31.

1920s-1930s: Celebrities, presidents and St. Petersburg’s residents flock to the hotel—making it the venue for important social occasions.

1927: A new 18-hole Snell Isle Golf Course is designed by Stiles and Van Kleek.

1940s: WWII army cooks and bakers train at the resort, which later closes briefly for post-war repairs.

1950s: During the post-war boom, The Vinoy is a favored winter destination.

1974: After several years of decline in guest occupancy and maintenance, The Vinoy closes, to sit empty for years.

1978: St. Petersburg citizens are instrumental in securing The Vinoy's place on the National Register of Historic Places.

1980s: St. Petersburg citizens protect The Vinoy from demolition.

1992: After a painstaking, two-year renovation, The Vinoy re-opens, restored to its original grandeur. The National Trust for Historic Preservation names it one of the Historic Hotels of America.

2000: The stunning Palm Court Ballroom is added.

2009: The Vinoy undergoes a multi-million-dollar renovation, including adding a Chihuly chandelier in the Grand Ballroom.

2011: The lobby and veranda are transformed, creating a lively waterfront vibe.

2015: The Legendary Vinoy® Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club celebrates 90 years.

2016: Renovations begin to make The Vinoy Club more incredible than ever before.

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