Why book? This seems like Fort Worth’s wonderful debut to the world. And not because it hasn’t always been great, but because the owners took their time to create an exquisite property that manages to explain to travelers that this culturally rich city is wonderful and all that is western, true, but so much more than that. It’s a breath of fresh air from the high heels and champagne of Dallas, while still managing to cater to the travelers that want an elevated stay when away.
Set the scene Walking in you just past check in immediately relax. People are spread out in different areas of the lower level of the property, but everyone is deeply engaged in the group that they are with. There are people in the Bowie House bar sipping whiskey and having a heart to heart, there are people playing pool in the Billet Room, and there are couples enjoying an intimate moment in the Mulberry Room while the fire crackles in the background. There are multiple scenes playing out simultaneously, and somehow, it absolutely works.
The backstory: Although Bowie House is operated by Auberge, it is owned by the incredibly badass businesswoman Jo Ellard who breeds championship horses at her ranch outside of Fort Worth. And so when one describes this property as inviting , charming, and incredibly cozy, it is likely because this property is an actual extension of Ellard’s actual home. She teamed up with Dallas-based BOKA Powell to design and furnish the place and used her own art (a collection of nearly 400 pieces) to sprinkle her personality in the place while also giving it depth.
The rooms : The thoughtful details in each room won me over from the start. And while I wasn’t staying after rodeo, I wish I had. There was a hat rack, boot bench, and boot jack in my room that would have been the ideal place to retreat after a night at Dickie’s Arena watching the cowboys do their thing. The Goodnight Suite is the crème de la crème of the property spanning almost 2,000 square feet and featuring a living room, dining room, and a bedroom with a king size bed. All rooms feature art from the property’s owners personal collection..
Food and drink Although the property’s signature restaurant Bricks & Horses offers dry-aged local beef and local vegetables that delight the taste buds, it’s the property’s bar that stands out. From the moment you enter the hotel, you are drawn like a moth to a flame to the familial feel of the Bar at Bowie House. As if you are returning home to a friend’s living room, tableside martinis and an extensive whiskey list make this your best bet in town for a fun night with friends. Do not miss the house social that takes place daily from 4-6 pm where you can snack on beef fat fries and a cocktail while enjoying one another's company.
The spa Ash Spa manages to have a completely different vibe than its bustling bar and lobby area with both traditional and non-traditional treatments to leave people feeling really refreshed from the inside out before they leave. Do not miss the Ashes signature treatment that includes compression, full-body lymphatic feathering, and acupuncture.
The neighborhood/area Located in the heart of Fort Worth Cultural District, this hotel is central to all the attractions of the city. Those coming in for a concert of rodeo at Dickies Arena are perfectly positioned and Texas Christian University is under a 10-minute drive. The only place you may miss if you don’t intentionally know to go is the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards which is a must.
The service In true Auberge fashion, Bowie House continues to offer service that is low key and casual but still accommodating of all needs.
For families This hotel is for the elevated traveler that wants to see Fort Worth as the well-to- do locals see it. While there is absolutely nothing childish about the property, there are crib and highchairs available, children’s menus at the hotel’s restaurant, and babysitting services that can be arranged through a third party.
Accessibility yes
Anything left to mention? When I arrived, I was so excited to relax at Ash Spa that I almost skipped out on the art tour, when in fact, it turned out to be one of my favorite aspects of my stay. Offered three times a week by art director Emily Gregoire, this complimentary art walk showcases 400 pieces collected over 20 years by the hotel’s owner and visionary Jo Ellard. The collection spans different time periods, a range of themes and displays an array of mediums that seemingly would never “work” together in one hotel but somehow fit perfectly to make Bowie House complete.
3700 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, Texas 76107
United States
https://auberge.com/bowie-house/
(855) 683-4092