It's time to ditch that Hampton Inn. How many times are you going to let yourself get roped in with the promise of a continental breakfast? Business travelers, and the rare species known as tourists, pour into Dallas because "Big Things Happen Here." Whichever big part of Dallas you're coming to see, we've compiled a list of five Dallas hotels that have a bit of local flavor. Stop staying at that Hyatt House just because it's close to your meetings and stay at one of these five hotels instead.
Belmont Hotel When the sun sets over the Belmont Hotel, be sure to grab a spot on the bar's patio to see a stunning view of the Dallas skyline. Smartly capitalizing on its rich history, the hotel has an atmosphere that can only be described as hipster vintage. In the past, we've doled out numerous awards to this local favorite -- for its hotel bar and its neighbor restaurant, the very interesting barbecue joint Smoke. With rates beginning in the low 100- dollar range, it's definitely the most affordable option on this list and the quality remains high. Plus it's just minutes from the dining and shopping destinations in Oak Cliff and the Bishop Arts District.
The Mansion on Turtle Creek If you've been dating your sugar daddy just long enough to ask for a weekend getaway, but you aren't yet entitled to escape to the French Riviera or purchase a villa in Naples, experience the most elegant hotel in Dallas, The Mansion. Tucked into the winding streets of Turtle Creek, the hotel is secluded enough for discretion, but with the dining experiences of a hotspot. The rooms are models of sophistication, with some of the mid-level master suites boasting baby grand pianos, a favorite of the late Marvin Hamlisch. Snuggle up to the fireplace in the dim hotel bar or sun yourself by the intimate pool area.
Hotel Zaza Crash a party at the Zaza pool, experience the high-octance McKinney Avenue nightlife or break the bank at Dragonfly, the hotel's signature restaurant. This uptown hideaway is a swinging joint for a weekend getaway or an extended stay. There's something very Dallas about this hotel: friendly, a bit pretentious, but filled with curiosities. For a special experience pick a themed bungalow like the Little Hippie, shown above.
The Adolphus Hotel Steeped in Dallas history, the Adolphus is in the heart of downtown Dallas. This beaux arts building was built by St. Louis beer king Adolphus Busch in 1912 and is the city's oldest operating hotel. If you decide to stay in this landmark, be sure to dine at The French Room and walk to the Sixth Floor Museum.
The Joule Exhibitionists, rejoice! From Main Street in downtown Dallas, you can see up into the Joule Hotel's pool and if the photos of the bathrooms are to be believed, many a downtown resident has seen a naked Joule visitor. That huge sculpture across the street isn't the only unblinking eye. It's a stunning hotel, which hopefully attracts stunning, nekkid people. If the price tag is a bit steep, or you're not ready to meet the voyeuristic Dallasites, stop in for a coffee at the super chic Weekend Coffee or for a bite at CBD Provisions.
