A lot of new hotels and a lot of new opportunity. The hotel upgrades come as Miami gains ground as a destination for visitors from around the world. Passenger traffic at Miami International Airport was up nearly 7% in the first half of 2012 and total passenger arrivals are expected to eclipse 40 million this year for the first time, according to the Miami-Dade Aviation Department.

Miami now ranks among the top five U.S. cities for hotel revenue per available room, average daily room rate, and overall occupancy, according to the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau. More than 9.5 million international visitors arrived in the first six months of 2012, accounting for an 8% annual increase.

“The InterContinental Miami has long been one of the best-performing assets in our portfolio and we expect that trajectory to continue as Miami solidifies its status as a global business, leisure and lifestyle destination,” Laurence Geller, CEO and president of Strategic Hotels & Resorts, said in a statement. “With Downtown Miami now recognized as one of the world’s most dynamic urban centers, we are making proactive investments that will ensure the InterContinental Miami remains a market leader for the foreseeable future.”

The digital canvas will project digital images and animations on the hotel’s east and west facing facades, highlighting current affairs and community events. A fully renovated entrance area will feature customizable lighting and sound elements, along with a Times Square-style LED marquee to welcome guests, large groups, and special events. But the hotel’s most popular amenities remain in place, including the rooftop pool deck overlooking Biscayne Bay.