A new Hard Rock Hotel will soon open in Atlanta’s historic downtown Castleberry Hill neighborhood. The new hotel is part of a development project that includes construction of a $1.6 billion sports stadium.

Ground broke last week on the 220-room Hard Rock Hotel, scheduled to open spring 2018. The hotel will be located next to the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC. The Major League Soccer team will play its first game in the new retractable-roof stadium on July 30.

“The area’s energetic atmosphere and history of embracing artistic endeavors aligns well with the Hard Rock Hotel product and we’re sure the upcoming property will quickly become the go-to entertainment and leisure destination,” said Frank Chen, general manager, Bolton Atlanta, LP.

The hotel will include a rooftop pool, restaurant and bar, spa, fitness center, a ballroom, banquet space, shopping and a vibrant lobby lounge. The Hard Rock Hotel will be in close proximity not only to the new stadium, but also the Georgia World Congress Center, one of the largest convention facilities in the United States.

“Atlanta has become a preferred destination among travelers and the city’s widespread appeal makes it an ideal destination for Hard Rock’s global fan base,” said Marco Roca, executive vice president of global hotel development, Hard Rock International. “We look forward to showcasing our world-class brand and bringing the Hard Rock Hotels experience to this thriving modern city.”