Summary
As retail evolves, communities across the country are turning to entertainment-driven destinations to attract visitors, support local businesses, and revitalize commercial districts. A recent industry panel featuring Miami Beach Economic Development Director, Steven Anthony, explored how experiential concepts such as immersive attractions, social sports venues, and destination dining are reshaping local economies and creating new opportunities for growth.
As cities across the country navigate a rapidly shifting retail landscape, many are looking to entertainment‑focused concepts to bring new life to aging commercial corridors. This emerging strategy took center stage during the recent panel discussion, “Shop, Dine, Play, Belong: Entertainment Districts as Catalysts for Economic Development,” hosted virtually by Project REAP and presented by ICSC on May 11, 2026.
Project REAP (Real Estate Associate Program) is a national initiative dedicated to expanding diversity and access within the commercial real estate industry by providing training, professional development, and networking opportunities. Partnering with ICSC, the organization representing marketplaces and retail real estate, the event brought together professionals exploring how experiential uses are becoming powerful tools for redevelopment.
The panel examined the growing appeal of “eatertainment” concepts such as pickleball venues, immersive dining, gaming bars, and hybrid sports‑and‑social experiences. These operators are increasingly filling former big‑box stores and second‑generation retail spaces, helping communities reestablish foot traffic, extend visitor dwell time, and strengthen destination identity.
Among the featured speakers was Steven Anthony, Economic Development Director for the City of Miami Beach, who provided insight into how municipalities can play an active role in cultivating entertainment‑based districts. Anthony described how Miami Beach approaches entertainment recruitment as a deliberate economic development strategy, one rooted in market analysis, targeted outreach, and collaboration with tourism partners.
Joining him on the panel were Rob Hunden, President & CEO of Hunden Strategic Partners, and Richelle Wilson, Deputy Director of the Rockville Economic Development Corporation. Together, the speakers provided perspectives on feasibility, district branding, redevelopment trends, and the long‑term value that experiential anchors can bring to communities.
Miami Beach is shaping the future of experiential districts, and we’re here to help you be part of it. Connect with our Economic Development team to explore opportunities, partnerships, and site options. Visit www.mbbiz.com to get started.
