By Russell Simon
An Amazing Experience
While Dallas may dominate the discussion when it comes to Texas’ major metroplex, don’t forget about Fort Worth!
Just 45 minutes (about 33 miles) away from Downtown Dallas, Fort Worth offers a Texas-sized experience that’ll leave you singing George Strait songs like “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind.”
I lived in Dallas for more than six years and frequently made my way over to Fort Worth. And when there, one of my favorite places to stay was the pet-friendly Kimpton Harper Hotel.
I first found this place when a friend recommended we hit the rooftop bar before a show at Bass Hall. The prime location and free parking made this an even-easier decision.
At first, I refused staying overnight because it was a 45-minute drive home; but the rooms were reasonably priced and the views from the 24th floor lobby were simply awe-inspiring.
A appreciated the architecture … it somehow captures the history of the area while reflecting modern style. Hard to pull off, but they did it beautifully.
Maybe one of my favorite features of the Kimpton Harper Hotel is the bar/lounge. The cocktails were wonderfully artful, and the vibe was so cool. An absolutely great place to hang out with friends and meet new people. (And the views were spectacular!)
My room was lovely. Three things really stood out. First was the view … striking. Second, the room featured local art … absolutely wonderful! And third, the room was astonishingly clean. (I always take a good look at the bed and pillows to check for cleanliness … a perfect A+!)
I didn’t go to the hotel’s restaurant, iL Modo, but I heard from other guests that the meals were outstanding. Italian cuisine but with some modern innovation.
Last thing about the hotel … Great Service. The people that work here truly understand the importance of enthusiastic, friendly service. Maybe one of my favorite aspects of my visit.
Perhaps the Kimpton’s only downside is the lack of a pool, but that’s a minor complaint considering its stellar attributes.
Make Sure You Enjoy The City, Too!
The Kimpton Harper Hotel compliments the city of Fort Worth perfectly. (Or is it the other way around?) From the real-deal feel of the Fort Worth Stockyards to the Kimbell Art Museum – regarded as one of the finest small art museums in the world – Fort Worth offers a different experience from its larger, more cosmopolitan cohort.
Sundance Square is the best place to start your southwestern sojourn in Fort Worth. Named after the infamous outlaw, the Sundance Kid, this downtown destination features dozens of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, numerous shops ranging from local boutiques to nationally recognized brands, and entertainment venues such as live music clubs, theaters, and the renowned Bass Performance Hall.
Also dominating downtown is Sundance Square Plaza, a 55,000-square-foot public space that hosts events and provides a gathering spot for visitors. Reminiscent of grand piazzas in Italy, the plaza is adorned with large umbrellas, fountains, and a permanent stage for performances.
Additional can’t-miss destinations in this distinctive Texas town include:
Fort Worth Stockyards – Catch one of the twice-daily cattle drives, take in a rodeo, stand shoulder to shoulder with two-ton Texas longhorns, and dance at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk.
Fort Worth Zoo – Featuring 16 habitats and more than 7,000 animals, the Fort Worth Zoo brings you nose-to-nose with some of nature’s fiercest carnivores – and has been named one of the nation’s top zoos by Family Life magazine, the Los Angeles Times and USA Today.
BBQ – After you’ve seen the big beef, it’s time to eat it! Fort Worth features some of the best BBQ in the world, especially when it comes to brisket. Terry Black’s, Heim, and Panther City are popular spots, but my favorite remains Angelo’s out on White Settlement Road.
My Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Almost a perfect score. But for all intents and purposes, staying at the Kimpton Harper Hotel was a perfect experience. The rooms, the views, the location, the bar/lounge, and the fitness center made my stay an absolute pleasure!