With direct flights to Dallas from both Albuquerque and Santa Fe airports, your staycation choices just got better. Dallas local Diana Oates shares an ideal itinerary for a quick trip to the Big D from a stunning stay at Hôtel Swexan to shopping spots and the best in arts and culture.
Direct Flights From New Mexico to Dallas Make for a Peaceful Staycation at Hôtel Swexan
Perhaps more commonly known for its professional sports teams and great Tex-Mex, Dallas has depth and offers much more than football and queso. And like most places that promote themselves as an ideal weekend getaway, where you choose to stay absolutely matters most. Hôtel Swexan, located in the haute Harwood District, is the hottest hotel in town and is one that has fun around every corner. Despite feeling like a private members club, this property welcomes both locals and out-of-towners alike for drinks, dinner, and if you are lucky enough, a couple night’s stay to rest and recharge.
What’s the meaning behind the Hôtel Swexan name? The property was founded by a Dallas family with deep roots in both Texas and Switzerland. And what do you call someone from Switzerland that also considers themselves a true Texan? A SWEXAN, of course.
How You’ll Dine at Hôtel Swexan
The shining star of this property is its food and beverage program, and it is worth scheming a plan to experience it all. Start by checking in in the afternoon and enjoying a welcome drink at Isabelle’s while you are waiting for your room to be ready. Once you have gotten into your room and are settled, get to Pomelo for an epic sunset by the rooftop pool. After some time socializing and when you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Stillwell’s for its own personal brand of beef on full display. It’s then time to head downstairs to the basement for lounge-style libations and funky beats at Babou’s.
And because the Swexan squad believes that life is all about balance, in addition to great F&B, it also offers its guests one of the most impressive gyms in Dallas. Think the latest and greatest workout equipment, wet and dry sauna, cold plunge, and a large outdoor patio for yoga and special classes. This gym will make even the most sloth-like leisure traveler want to crank out a quick sweat sesh.
A Hub for the Arts
Yes, it’s true that Hôtel Swexan is a masterpiece, but it’s just scratching the surface of an underrated city in terms of what it has to offer those with an affinity for the arts. In fact, this metropolitan city is home to the largest contiguous arts district in the United States and features magnificent museums like the Dallas Museum of Art, Crow Museum of Asian Art, The Nasher Sculpture Center, The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and more.
Love a live show? Be sure to check The Meyerson Symphony Center and the AT&T Performing Arts Center website when you book your flight to see if a show strikes your fancy during your visit. Local favorites include Christmas performances of The Nutcracker, classical concerts by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and even off-Broadway productions of your favorite musicals.
If the weather is favorable during your visit, book tickets to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for a stroll. There are seasonable installments year-round from 500,000 spring-blooming bulbs to playful pumpkin displays in the fall. End your East Dallas adventure by finding a spot on the patio on Smoky Rose for great barbecue and a cold, local beer.
Shopping Luxury in Dallas
And no stay in Dallas is complete without a luxury shopping trip. Those who prefer the ultimate in luxury brands should make it their mission to peruse Highland Park Village, which is a window-shopping wonderland including Hermès, Dior, Celine, and more. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you are perfectly primed for an al fresco lunch at the iconic Café Pacific or the see-and-be-seen patio at Honor Bar.
After purchasing the Dallas swanky souvenirs and it’s nearly time to head back home, there is only one way to put a cherry on top of the trip. By enjoying a Mambo Taxi, the signature margarita at Mi Cocina, of course! Mi Cocina is an upscale Tex-Mex restaurant with several locations, including one in Highland Park Village. The Mambo Taxi is a heady mix of Sauza silver tequila, lime juice, their own house-made sangria made with Pinot Noir wine, brandy, and fruit juices. Those that are in the know head straight up to the top floor to enjoy theirs at Monkey Bar. Cheers y’all!
Story by Diana Oates
Featured Photo Courtesy of Hôtel Swexan
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