Go east to go west

Bowie House, Fort Worth, TX

GETAWAYS • Fort Worth, TX

Sometimes Fort Worth, Texas, gets blended together with Dallas in the non-Texan consciousness. But Fort Worth is on a growth spurt lately, propelled in part by the crossover popularity of all things American West and country music, as well as an influx of new residents. The city’s more interesting neighborhoods have the feel of Austin 15 years ago: smatterings of small businesses and cafes, with nothing too focus-grouped or blisteringly cool — just a vibe that portends momentum.

As such, the city finally has a hotel worthy of those aspirations. Bowie House, recently opened by Auberge Resorts Collection, sits within walking distance of the Modern Art Museum, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and the Kimbell, among other attractions. Throw in some rodeo and a stockyard visit, and you’ve got yourself a long weekend, just a three-hour flight from LA. 

The hotel is a perfect realization of what Auberge is trying to do with the brand — deliver luxe hospitality with a local feel. The bar and lobby area render the American West in crisp HD, without contrivances or pastiche. The brand’s creative director, Kemper Hyers, created an elevated, convivial space that frames the interesting convergences of the city: I spotted a full regalia cowboy with a silver six-shooter and spurs stroll by, and in the evening a certain Mad Man held court in salmon-colored khakis, fresh off a nearby filming. 

Service was polished, and rooms had lovely handspun touches that defy the razor-blade-assembly-line feel of some other luxury hotel brands. America can still be interesting. And Bowie House is a plush, inspired landing pad to explore a city that increasingly merits your attention. –Colin Nagy

→ Bowie House (Fort Worth, TX) • 3700 Camp Bowie Blvd.