Dallas is a cultured city and fitting locale for the first Thompson Hotel in Texas — a luxury lifestyle Hyatt brand. Located downtown, Thompson Dallas resides in The National — a historic, 51-story building that underwent a $460 million restoration prior to opening last fall. The hotel has 219 guestrooms, including 52 suites.

As the valet parked our car, we stepped into the lobby. Guests walk a patterned tile aisle that visually divides the busy space into two distinct sitting areas. Book shelves filled with objects separate the intimately arranged seating, interspersed by pieces of art. Sculptured modern gold chandeliers dangle from the ceiling. I felt as though we were making a red-carpet entrance as we proceeded to the massive registration desk. The building was formerly a bank and the walls showcase the hotel’s $2 million dollars’ worth of art, most notably the western-themed photography by David Yarrow.

The staff warmly greeted us and provided bottles of water. Our 18^th-floor, wheelchair accessible guestroom with two beds evoked a Mad Men-style with a curated minibar placed in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, walnut and brass headboards, an antiqued mirror, and open metal shelving. An espresso maker is available upon request. The more than 500-square-foot room contained a desk, 55-inch flat-screen television, two sets of robes with slippers, a safe and a steamer. At night, the motion detector light below the bedside table was a convenient feature as were the book lights built into the headboards.

The hotel has two dining options. Nine at the National offers breakfast and lunch with indoor and outdoor seating. We stopped by for an afternoon coffee and peppermint tea. The staff was busy and friendly. The Catbird, located on the 10th floor, is a restaurant, lounge and bar. The coveted seating is under the lush trellis on the rooftop patio and provides a view of the hotel pool. The menu is small plates and crafted cocktails, many of which are tequila-based. Reservations are highly recommended.

Within walking distance to several attractions, such as the flagship Neiman Marcus Downtown, the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Garden, Thompson Dallas is a decidedly glamorous getaway, especially for travelers who love the arts.

Thompson Dallas

205 North Akard St.
Dallas, TX 75201
tel 469 320 1234