Dallas is a mecca for lavish hotels, but only one can lay claim as the first luxury hotel in town: The Adolphus Hotel. This historic hotel has hosted dignitaries and celebrities, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip (their portrait still hangs in the lobby), the Vanderbilts, U2, Estee Lauder, and many more. Over the years, it has gained a reputation as the place for a weekend getaway, wedding, family gathering, or a business trip for those in the know… and now you know, too.
Built by Anheuser Busch beer magnate Adolphus Busch, The Adolphus Hotel is reminiscent of a Beaux-Arts castle. A man who had created a good life for himself and his family, Busch, who hailed from Missouri, believed, correctly, that Dallas was a city of the future. Naturally, he chose Dallas as the home for his now iconic hotel. Dallasites are forever grateful.

New tile floor with original desk and lighting.
The Adolphus is the hotel of choice for travelers who prefer a sense of place with high-end amenities and service. Located in downtown Dallas, just a short walk from the flagship Neiman Marcus department store and across the street from the AT&T Discovery Center, guests are ideally situated to make the most of all Big D offers.
A 2018 renovation transformed the hotel into a more social space where people can easily gather and mingle. Designers kept the beautiful warm wood walls that are original to the hotel. However, heavy carpets were replaced with vintage reproduction tile in some areas, wood plank in others, and area rugs. Seating is arranged to encourage conversation. Bespoke art, much of it by local artists, fills the hotel.

The Social Lobby
One of my favorite spots in the hotel is called the social lobby. There are two antique French fireplaces with comfortable seating and a selection of coffee table books. It’s the perfect spot to cozy up with a cocktail. The only significant change here is the art over the fireplaces. This spot is where I met the composer Burt Bacharach in person after a private performance at The Adolphus. As a starstruck fan, I will always remember that moment. This review may be just a wee bit biased… forgive me.
Dining at The Adolphus
With six dining options located inside the hotel, you will never go hungry. From Otto’s Coffee & Fine Foods (located just off the lobby) to the Rodeo Bar, the variety of dining options will have you covered.
Otto’s is the place to go if you crave a nice espresso and croissant. For something more filling, there are breakfast sandwiches and tacos, plus a selection of tea. For breakfast, lunch, and cocktails, check out City Hall Bistro. Later in the day, try the Social Lobby Bar for light bites and drinks in a communal setting. The Rodeo Bar is open for both lunch and dinner and offers lots of Texas personality with Blue Plate specials. Try the Rodeo Burger served with a basket of freshly cooked fries.

Otto’s Coffee Bar
The French Room at The Adolphus is now open for afternoon tea only. Many locals have made tea at the Adolphus a tradition. Afternoon tea is served daily and includes a large selection of sparkling wine and caviar in addition to the more traditional scones, cakes, and sandwiches. Be sure to book in advance.
Cocktails and dinner are served in the French Room Bar a gorgeous room with deep blue accents, a black marble bar, and a gold ceiling. This room is dramatic and sexy. The menu offers many creative takes on casual favorites such as lamb shank confit, oysters on the half shell, and a prime rib sandwich inspired by Chef de Cuisine Frederick Sulis international training.
Sushi by Scratch restaurant has an immersive 17-course nigiri tasting —showcasing fish and shellfish primarily flown in twice a week from Tokyo’s world-famous Toyosu Fish Market and A5 Wagyu sourced locally from Iron Table Wagyu out of Gatesville, TX. Getting a table at Sushi by Scratch requires pre-planning. Book a month in advance on the day they are released, usually the first of each month. It will be worth it.
For after-hours fun, the Rodeo Bar has live music on the weekends. It’s a popular spot for both locals and travelers.

An Executive Suite with terrace. photo courtesy The Adolphus
Rooms at the Adolphus
There are 407 rooms (268 rooms and 139 suites), all are slightly different. What is consistent are king beds with pillow top mattresses, downtown Dallas views, and blackout curtains in every room. Amenities include Apothik bath products, plush robes, flat-screen televisions, individual climate controls, hair dryers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping. The suites are generous, beginning at 500 sq.ft. The Presidential Suite is 1500 sq.ft., with a terrace and distinctly Dallas downtown views.
Amenities
If you visit in the summer, you’ll love the rooftop pool with striking downtown views. There is also rooftop dining and bar service.
Other hotel amenities include a 24/7 concierge service, a spa, a fitness center, a barber shop, dry cleaning service, and a car service that will drop guests anywhere within a three-mile radius of the hotel.
You won’t find the typical sundries at Commerce Goods and Supply, the hotel’s only shop. Everything is carefully curated to ensure you leave with a keepsake that will be cherished. Commerce is where wannabe cowboys and gals can get their custom Stetson hats.

Lobby seating
Whether you’re a local seeking an elegant staycation, a business traveler, or desire an iconic destination hotel for your wedding or other special event, the Adolphus Hotel invites you to experience history and quiet luxury for today’s travelers. Room rates start at $309 per night. Valet parking for $55 per day.
You can book a room here or check rates online at Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com.
photos by Penny Sadler