Whether planning your next trip to Texas or just wanting a relaxing staycation around the holidays, these top-notch hotels will have you living the suite life. 

The Kimpton Harper, Fort Worth

Near the renowned Sundance Square, the Kimpton Harper blends the old and new in the heart of downtown Cow Town. The cosmopolitan 226-room hotel is in a soaring 24-floor historic landmark that was once the tallest building in town. You’ll find magnificent city views from the Top Floor Suite. Complete with eclectic local art, it’s a sophisticated space with subtle nods to Fort Worth history. 

Sweeping City Views 

I absolutely loved the spa-like tub that’s perfect for a romantic getaway or well deserved me-time. If — like me — you can’t get enough of those views, move on up to Refinery 714, the Penthouse Bar, for some well-crafted cocktails with a great backdrop. 

Private Pasta Party

Make room in your tummy for enticing eats at the Harper’s il Modo Italian restaurant. Pasta is handcrafted with care and hands-on classes offered to teach you technique in the glass-walled Chef’s Table pasta room. If that’s not authentic Italian, I don’t know what is. 

Day Planner

In the AM, kick start your morning with coffee, hot tea and pastries on the 24th floor or head to Il Modo. For active peeps, look for the state-of-the-art fitness center on the 3rd floor. Check out a complimentary Peloton bike at the first floor lobby for a virtual tour of the city (first come, first served).The hotel’s partnership with Literary Hub means you’ll enjoy seasonal book recommendations from the comfort of your room. Rent bikes for an IRL tour of the city!

Packaged to Perfection

The Texas Wild package is great for family fun time with the littles. With the Toast Of The Town package, you’ll receive $50 food and beverage credit for il Modo or Refinery 714 per day, as well as two complimentary specialty cocktails. Book the Friendsgiving Getaway through Dec. 31st for a mini friends-staycation.

The Kimpton Pittman, Dallas

A cousin of Fort Worth’s Harper Hotel, you’ll find the 165-room Kimpton Pittman in the heart of Deep Ellum. In the late 19th century, freed slaves began settling “deep on Elm Street,” a phrase that morphed into “Deep Ellum.” With 30-plus live music venues, iconic street murals, art galleries and a thriving bar and restaurant scene, Deep Ellum has become an entertainment destination.

History By Design

The Kimpton Pittman’s building was designed in 1916 by Texas’s first African-American architect, civil rights advocate and son-in-law of Booker T. Washington, William Sidney Pittman. I stayed in the Essential Two Queens room, which had a modern minimalist palette of white walls, soft lighting mixes, geometric local artwork and pops of color. 

All You Need

Just like at the Harper, Peloton bikes and TRX machines are available here. At Elm & Good you can’t go wrong with the 44 Farms Ribeye Steak or the Blackened Gulf Coast Redfish. Be sure to add some triple-cooked fries on the side. 

Escapes

Sometimes you need a well-deserved weekend escape, and that’s okay! If you’re looking for a romantic rendezvous, the Romance at the Pittman package includes Champagne for two, locally-sourced treats, and a late check-out. 

The Jump in the Deep End package is a steal you’ll want to hop on. Enjoy overnight accommodations and two lounge chair reservations at Deep End (an outdoor gathering place) during your stay. Sip on two signature welcome cocktails poolside, like the You Can ‘Deep-End’ On It or the Lone Star Green Chili Michelada. Snack on one of Chef Dodd’s new Deep End menu using your $50 daily dining credit, such as the Grass-Fed Burger or Crispy Redfish. Borrow one of the selected books from Literary Hub to read with those cocktails. 

Celebrate the Holidays

Here’s just a selection of the fun and festive must-dos planned at Elm & Good

“Gobble Til You Wobble” Thanksgiving Meal, Nov. 25, 11am – 3pm (Traditional Thanksgiving fare, available dine-in or to-go)

“Shaken, Not Stirred” Holiday Cocktail Class, Dec. 4, 3 – 5pm (Learn to prep, batch, and show off fancy holiday libations)

“Feliz Navidad” Christmas Eve Dinner, Dec. 24, 5:30 – 10pm (A menu featuring inspiration from south of the border, dine-in or to-go)

“Bubbles & Bling” New Year’s Eve Dinner, Dec. 31, 5:30pm – 1am

Live! By Loews Arlington

For the sports fans out there, I’ve got just the spot for you! Just 10 minutes from DFW Airport, Live! By Loews Arlington is the ultimate sporty resort destination. This 35,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space is a 14-story hotel with 300 guests rooms and luxury suites — perfect for families or die-hard sports fans

Sporty + Stylish

I fell in love with the Grand Stadium Suite. It’s welcoming and super spacious with natural wood floors, a comfortable sitting area, and striking views from every floor-to-ceiling window. Be sure to dine at the signature restaurant, the classic steakhouse, Cut & Bourbon. You’re bound to find one of your favorites here, like the shareable Sausage Trio, juicy burgers, or fine cut steaks. On Thanksgiving Day, the resort is offering a buffet ($75 pp) from 10am-6pm.

Everywhere Entertainment 

The best part? This one-of-a-kind sports resort is surrounded by entertainment! Dallas Cowboy fans, you have the AT&T Stadium nearby. Walking distance away, there’s The Choctaw Stadium (formerly known as the Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Park), the recently unveiled new Globe Life Field, and the Esports Stadium Arlington & Expo Center. If you plan on attending a game at one of these venues and want to explore the city further, this is the perfect place.

We can’t forget about Texas Live! which happens to be right next door. There’s outdoor events almost every night of the week, combined with a great line-up of bars and restaurants to check out, including Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint. 

When I say this is a sporty resort, I mean it. There are big screen TVs all over — even near the SOAK Pool & Bar. At this pool hot spot kids will love the infinity pool! Gather with friends at the swim up bar, lounge out at one of the cabanas, and take in those killer views. This summer, I enjoyed catching the Olympics as I walked to the Clover Club. Whether you’re enjoying happy hour or a game recap, this modern outdoor lounge with a striking view of the AT&T Stadium has a menu of night bites and desired drinks. 

San Antonio Marriott RiverCenter

When I think of San Antonio, I think of the Riverwalk; it’s the heart and soul of the Alamo city. So why not stay at one of the largest hotels in downtown San Antonio located directly on the Riverwalk? 

Charming City

At the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, you’ll find stunning views of the charming city and Riverwalk from all 1,000 rooms. I stayed in the King Room with an outdoor terrace, one of the best views you’ll find. Wake up in the morning and do a yoga session while taking it all in. 

The hotel has a private entrance to the Riverwalk, and is attached to the Shops at Rivercenter, so you’re just steps away from hundreds of attractions and restaurants. During the holidays, the Riverwalk is alight with Christmas lights hanging from the trees. With the River Cruise Package, you’ll experience the best of San Antonio; it truly is a magical experience. 

Dining

And when you stay at this newly renovated hotel, it’s a must to dine at Tributary. People flock here for quick service and no wait times. That’s a rarity when it comes to restaurants on the Riverwalk, so take advantage. 

Tributary partners with local farmers for fresh produce and proteins.They even have a wine cellar and honeycombs on the roof. I recommend starting with the yummy Hummus. For mains, the Tributary Burger is a great option for meat lovers. (Order crunchy onion rings on the side.) For your sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with the Brownie Sundae, chocolatey goodness at its finest, or maybe the Banana Pudding that I couldn’t get enough of. 

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Cover photo courtesy Kimpton Harper Hotel

Leean Vargas is an Editorial Assistant at Texas Lifestyle Magazine and an honors graduate of

Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. She is a concert enthusiast who loves traveling, photography, good food, and discovering new hangout spots in her beloved city, Austin, Texas.