Today, Dallas, is the ninth most populous city in America. During the 18th century, Spanish colonists claimed the territory of Texas as a section of the Viceroyalty of New Spain. France later claimed the area but with limited settlement. The Adams – Onis Treaty was signed in 1819 when Spain surrendered Florida to America and renounced its claim to Texas and the boundary along the Sabine River was established. Spanish rule continued until 1821 when Mexico gained independence from Spain and in 1836 early Anglo Americans gained independence from Mexico and the Republic of Texas was formed. In 1839 John Neely Bryan, a farmer, lawyer and statesman, planted a stake in the earth near the Trinity River and on his return in 1841 a permanent settlement was formed and Dallas was established.
This effervescent city is forever synonymous with the American television series, Dallas, which was broadcast from April 1978 to May 1991. The storyline focused on the oil-rich and cattle-ranching Ewing family and their constant disputes. When J. R. Ewing (played by Larry Hagman) was murdered in an episode aired in March 1980 viewers were unaware as to who the culprit was until eight months later when 83 million tuned in for the ‘big reveal’. That episode remains one the most watched television broadcasts in history.
I was keen to settle in and plan my explorations and opted to stay at the Warwick Melrose Hotel, located on Oak Lawn Avenue in the ‘mighty fine’ neighbourhood of Turtle Creek and Highland Park amid the vibrant cultural centre of the city. This grand property, which was recognised as a historic landmark in 1983, dates back to 1924 and perfectly reflects the elegant architectural flourishes of the roaring twenties.
Continuing to attract high profile guests and celebrities including the late Elizabeth Taylor and Arthur Miller, the Warwick Melrose provides the ultimate retreat for weary travellers seeking the perfect spot to relax. Following a swift check-in, my luggage was whisked away and I was escorted to a deluxe suite measuring 800 sq. ft. Featuring a king size bed, swathed in crisp, white linens, plush carpeting and with a separate lounge, furnished with a glittering crystal chandelier, a comfy sofa and chairs, and a dining area, I was at home in a flash.
After an ultra comfortable snooze I made my way down to the ground floor and hearing the gentle, soothing notes of the very impressive vocalist and pianist, Erik Barnes, I selected a plump seat in the sophisticated jazz-age-inspired Library bar and ordered a delicious Negroni on ice, which was served in a jiffy. The Library, selected by Playboy magazine as one of the best ‘seduction spots for America’s best bars’, is clearly a very popular venue as is the hotel’s restaurant, the Landmark Prime Rib, which offers the ultimate in steakhouse luxury in a truly glamorous setting. I ordered the most succulent 8oz Dallas Cut USDA prime rib, which is cut table-side with much aplomb, and accompanied by a bottle of Napa Cellar’s Merlot, it was an unforgettable dining experience.
Following a deep slumber and a rejuvenating early morning shower in the spacious bathroom, I made my way to the ground floor to take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. After a few leisurely laps and a quick change of clothing I returned to the hotel’s Landmark Restaurant for a lavish breakfast. I ordered the first class Eggs Benedict with a piping hot coffee and studied my diary of daily activities.
With a spring in my step I headed for North Harwood Street, the location of the Dallas Museum of Art, one of the ten largest museums in the United States and situated in the Dallas Arts District, which is the biggest arts area throughout America. With over 25,000 works spanning 5,000 years, there is much to see. Due to the size of the collection, artwork rotates in and out of public view. The permanent exhibits include pieces by local artists and international masters, including Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso and Renoir.
With my insatiable desire for art temporarily abated, I stepped outside into the glorious Texan sunshine and made my way to Harwood Street, the site of Pacific Plaza, a 3.7 acre neighbourhood space, which features a pedestrian corridor, beautiful verdant lawns and a busy set of swings.
With the atmosphere filled with children’s laughter and the fresh scents of nature hanging in the air I strolled along at leisure bound for Dealey Plaza to pay my respects to the late President John F. Kennedy who was assassinated in November 1963. The plaza is surrounded by white-stone monuments and a small sloped green space, which overlooks Elm Street, where President Kennedy’s motorcade was travelling on that ominous day.
For a deeper understanding of the tragedy I headed for the nearby Sixth Floor Museum, which chronicles the life, assassination and legacy of the late President. An extensive collection of photographs, artefacts, films and documents offer a deep insight into his personal life and presidency. In addition, other exhibits detail the investigation and the inevitable conspiracy theories.
Later, I returned to the Warwick Melrose Hotel and for a ‘gal’ who loves to be pampered and preened, Le Spa, the hotels’ in-house sanctuary, was the ideal spot for my extensive range of luxurious treatments. I selected the glow petite facial, which was simply sublime, the tranquil touch massage, which more than lived up to its name by alleviating my traveller’s muscle aches and tension and then the rejuvenating manicure and pedicure completed my programme. I hurried to my suite, selected my favourite cocktail dress and feeling like a million dollars, I headed out.
For my last evening in the great city of Dallas I visited the spectacular Reunion Tower; affectionately known as ‘The Ball’, due to its geodesic sphere design. Soaring 561 feet into the sky, the tower features a GeO –Deck, which is the impressive observation platform where visitors are amply rewarded with thrilling panoramic views over the city.
Also within the tower, the prestigious Crown Block restaurant offers an impressive menu of steaks and seafood. Features include a sushi bar, a pastry bar and of course the outstanding views. Recognised by Michelin in 2024 and again in 2025, this circular restaurant is a very popular spot and reservations are essential. I was most fortunate to be seated next to an enormous window and noted the hush that descended over my fellow diners as we collectively witnessed the most spectacular sunset over the bustling freeways, crammed with endless meandering lines of rush hour traffic and the headlights twinkling in the dark night. I ordered the delicious lobster bisque, followed by the most succulent Filet Mignon and I instantly yielded to the temptation of the key lime pie. And as I sipped on my glass of Remy Martin VSOP I held my glass aloft with a toast to the great city of Dallas. With my best effort of a warm Texan drawl I announced ‘I’ll be back to see y’all again, ya hear’!
‘Top tip’ Accommodation
For more information on the featured property visit warwickhotels.com /warwick-melrose-dallas/
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