Do you wish you could get away from the hustle and bustle of your life, but you don't have time to vacation in an exotic location for two weeks? Sometimes, all you need is a little staycation. Head to Tulsa, and stay at this unique, historic hotel that will delight (and pamper) you.
Residents of Tulsa in 1925 only had to look up at the skyline to see the iconic sign of the city's most prestigious hotel. At night it could be seen for miles, lit in red.
The Mayo Hotel was completed in 1925, in the Art Deco Style. At 19 stories, it was the tallest building in Tulsa, and with its 600 luxurious rooms, the most lavish.
The Mayo was THE place to be - drawing celebrities and dignitaries. Guests included everyone from President Kennedy to Elvis. The Crystal Ballroom hosted dancing, pageants, dinners and more.
City officials were ready to tear the hotel down when the Snyder family purchased it in 2001. Renovations began with the lobby, and the entire hotel was renovated by 2009, at a cost of $42 million.
If you’ve never been to the state of Oklahoma, you may be wondering if there’s any reason you should plan a visit. The truth is that the Sooner State is home to some really incredible things to see and do, and if you have the opportunity, we definitely recommend you check it out! Oklahoma is full of natural beauty, such as the stunning views of the Wichita Mountains, the natural springs of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, and so much more- there’s really no shortage of amazing outdoor wonders to explore. Not to mention, the state is also known for its iconic cowboy culture and Western influence, significant Native American Heritage, and many unique attributes that make it a wonderful road trip destination. If you’re considering a visit to the state, we think that these 12 accommodations are the best hotels in Oklahoma for various travel needs.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Oklahoma
Staying somewhere that feels a little out-of-the-ordinary can really make a visit to a new place feel extra memorable. A unique hotel is also an amazing option for locals who are looking for a staycation that’s extra special. Here are two options in Oklahoma that are one-of-a-kind and unforgettable.
When you think of Tulsa, the first thing that comes to mind may not be historic, English-style mansions. However, the city is home to the Harwelden Mansion on Main Street: a historic hotel that offers lovely, Tudor-style architecture that’ll make you feel like you’ve just arrived in Europe. Aside from its beautiful theming, this hotel has several attributes that make it especially unique. For one, it offers a comfortable Bed and Breakfast style service while upholding a more luxe experience throughout. Bedroom suites include modern amenities in addition to the distinct decor, and guests can upgrade to enhance the experience. There’s a lot to explore throughout the mansion, such as afternoon tea and walking tours, making this a perfect place for a romantic getaway or a special occasion with family. Not to mention, this is a well-loved wedding venue and event space.
Address: 1235 NW 38th St Suite 010, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Price: $184/Nightly
Amenities: Breakfast, Bar, Free Wifi
Rating 4/5
Oklahoma City is a wonderful place to visit, and a stay at Bradford House will only make your trip more wonderful. Built in 1912, this is another historic mansion hotel, but you’ll see it’s quite different from the previous accommodation on this list. Located in a neighborhood, this homey hotel is very welcoming from the outside: the wraparound porch and vintage aesthetic are very picturesque. Once inside, however, you’ll notice the bright, vibrant colors and impeccable styling. Guests enjoy the cocktail bar, restaurant, cafe, and courtyard which all feature a warm and quirky decor. The guest rooms continue this fun design and offer comfortable amenities such as free-standing tubs and free wifi. Room service is available, and breakfast and coffee are complimentary each morning. The vintage vibes and modern luxury will have you falling in love with everything about this hotel.
Best Hotel Pools in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is a place that can get very hot in the summer- but don’t let that deter you! The warmer months are a great time to visit, especially if you stay somewhere with a great pool. Here are two hotels in Oklahoma that offer great indoor pools and outdoor pools to beat the heat.
If you’re looking for a modern hotel that has great recreational amenities, the Hyatt Regency in Tulsa is a great option. The location is great for any kind of visit to the city. It’s close to some of the city’s best entertainment, but it’s also very close to Cox Convention Center/Business Center and offers a shuttle service to guests. The hotel offers everything you could want during your stay - guest rooms feature a very clean, sleek design and offer modern amenities such as coffee bars, minifridges, complimentary wifi, and flat-screen TVs. The on-site amenities include a conference center, a 24-hour fitness center, and of course, a great pool. The pool itself may not look like other epic hotel pools you’ve seen online, but this pool earns a spot on this list for its great city views. On a visit to Tulsa in the summer, this is simply one of the best swimming pools in the city.
Amenities: Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool, Casino, Hot Tub Restaurant, Bar
Rating 4/5
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The Artesian Hotel in Sulphur, Oklahoma, offers a lot of experiences for guests of all ages. The building is actually a reconstruction of the original hotel that was built in 1906 and features comfortable guest rooms that offer modern amenities. The vintage-style furniture of each room is one of the most-loved features of the hotel. The property itself boasts many fun experiences, such as restaurants, retail stores, a spa, and more. The pool is special because there is an indoor and outdoor area, so guests can swim throughout the year.
Best Luxury Hotels in Oklahoma
Whether it’s a special occasion or you’re in the mood to splurge, a luxury hotel experience might be what you’re looking for. Here are two of the best options in Oklahoma for a more opulent stay.
5. The National, Autograph Collection, Oklahoma City
Address: 120 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Price: $220/Nightly
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Gift Shop, Fitness Center
Rating 5/5
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Located in the heart of downtown OKC, the National Autograph Collection, is not only one of the most luxurious hotel options in the state, but it’s also one of the coolest - hands down. This incredible historic building has been fully restored and is currently on the National Register of Historic Places. Just 10 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport, the stylized rooms are eye-catching, featuring both deep and bright colors, as well as sleek furniture. The building itself is filled with restaurants, shops, and the beautiful architecture will inspire you to roam around for hours. Complete with a boot-maker store, this four-star hotel experience is a deluxe option for a stay in Oklahoma City that’ll certainly be unforgettable. Plus, it’s pet-friendly!
6. Fordson Hotel - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Oklahoma City
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool
Rating 4.5/5
The second option we have for the best luxury hotels in Oklahoma is the Fordson Hotel. Located in the building that was formerly the Ford Motor Company assembly plant, the hotel that exists here today is one of the most exciting getaway options in the state. The guest rooms here feature an industrial-chic decor, with pops of color and original artwork. In-room amenities include Nespresso machines, stylish sitting areas, and incredible views. The hotel itself is home to an outdoor pool, a pool bar, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center. The Fordson Hotel is within walking distance of some of OKC’s greatest activities, such as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. The style, location, and overall atmosphere will be enjoyed by all.
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Best Boutique Hotels in Oklahoma
Similar to out-of-the-ordinary hotels, boutique accommodations are the kind of getaways that can really enhance your overall trip experience. Boutique hotels tend to offer specialized hotel rooms, unique amenities, and a stylized vibe that stands out when compared to chains such as the Holiday Inn or Marriott. These smaller hotels also tend to pay extra attention to the overall guest experience, so sometimes you’ll find yourself in a more luxurious setting than you expected! Here are two of the best boutique hotels in Oklahoma.
Address: 821 S Johnstone Ave, Bartlesville, OK 74003
Price: $89/Nightly
Amenities: Restaurant, Free Parking, Fitness Center
Rating 4/5
If you’re passing through Bartlesville, a stay at Hotel Phillips is ideal for a cozy stay. Comfortable guest rooms each feature a distinct, traditional style, but offer modern amenities, as well as Egyptian cotton linens. The hotel offers a fitness center, a historic lobby, an outdoor deck, and even a clothes care area. This modest boutique hotel offers affordable nightly rates, and is close to several fun experiences in the nearby areas of Pawhuska and Dewey - you’ll find antique shopping, historical buildings, museums, and more.
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8. Colcord Hotel Oklahoma City, Curio Collection by Hilton, Oklahoma City
Address: 15 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Price: $166/Nightly
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Fitness Center
Rating 4.5
The Colcord Hotel in Oklahoma City is considered one of the nicest boutique hotels in the state. Located in a building that was originally constructed in 1910, the vintage architecture is mixed with posh, contemporary decor. This is noticeable in each guest room, which offers free wifi, sleek sitting areas, and designer bath products. The hotel itself offers a 24-hour fitness center, as well as an on-site restaurant, Flint, that features an elegant ambiance and fine dining experience. This hotel is also only seven miles away from the Oklahoma City Zoo, and a five-minute drive from Oklahoma City’s Bricktown area.
Best Resorts in Oklahoma
Overall, there are some resorts in Oklahoma that fit into more than one category. Here are four resorts in the state that are simply some of the best getaway options in the entire state.
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Fitness Center, Indoor Pool, Hot Tub
Rating 4.5/5
Another wonderful hotel located in OKC, The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City is a gorgeous, three-towered historic building that will not disappoint. Built in 1911 and renovated in the 2000s, this hotel features an art deco style as well as traditional comforts. Guest rooms offer modern amenities and a classic design, and suites offer more living space if needed. The hotel features a restaurant that continues the art deco theming, as well as a cocktail bar, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. And if you’re into history, this hotel has some pretty interesting stories from its past... let’s just say that you may want to look into some of the ghost stories surrounding The Skirvin before you decide to check in! But we still think it's one of the best resorts in Oklahoma.
10. Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection, Oklahoma City
Address: 1200 N Walker Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103
Price: $151/Nightly
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool, Family-friendly Activities
Rating 4.5/5
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The Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City is another stylish hotel that offers an inviting mixture of vintage and modern theming, and it’s close to many nearby attractions, such as Bricktown and the Chesapeake Energy Arena. Guest rooms offer an upscale experience: marble bathrooms, amazing city views, and Keurig coffee makers are included in every unit. The outdoor pool and fitness center are loved by guests, and the rooftop bar and restaurant are must-dos if you stay here. One of the coolest things about this hotel, however, is the complimentary luxury car service that’s offered to guests! To me, that makes it one of the best luxury resorts in Oklahoma.
11. Renaissance Waterford Oklahoma City Hotel, Oklahoma City
Address:6300 Waterford Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Price: $135/Nightly
Amenities: Restaurant, Bar, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool, Hot Tub, Family-friendly Activities
Rating 4/5
Another great hotel in the state’s capital, the Renaissance Waterford Oklahoma City Hotel offers an upscale experience that everyone will love. Located in a classic redbrick building, the hotel is close to The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which is definitely worth checking out while you’re in town. It’s also near the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, as well as many other popular OKC attractions. Guest rooms offer modern amenities that’ll make you feel right at home, while suites have access to a lounge with complimentary breakfast and refreshments. The hotel offers a fitness center, outdoor pool, hot tub, spa, and an on-site restaurant.
A list of the best hotels in Oklahoma wouldn’t be complete without featuring an accommodation that pays homage to the state’s Western heritage and history. The Pioneer Woman Boarding House in Pawhuska is an incredible Inn that’s off U.S. 60 and near the Osage Nation Museum. This rustic-chic inn exudes Western style, and the comfortable rooms feature an inviting mixture of charm and luxury. Guest rooms feature in-room morning coffee, unique style, as well as lovely views and claw-foot bathtubs. The shared balcony is a favorite among guests, as well as the evening socials that take place in the hotel. The inn also owns a pizzeria, bakery, and restaurant right next door. The hotel is great for its location, thoughtful decor, and unique amenities.
And there you have it: the 12 best hotels in Oklahoma we recommend. As you can see, there's a lot to experience in this state - the history, the natural sights, and the unique places to explore on a Route 66 road trip are just a few of the factors that make it a place that's worth visiting. Have you been to any of the hotels on this list? Let us know in the comments!
Editor's Note: The 21c Museum Hotel is now operating as the Fordson Hotel, and the art museum aspect is no longer the theme. It's still a beautiful place to stay, though!
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Oklahoma is known for some charming bed and breakfasts that offer superb Southern hospitality but if you're looking for a more posh experience, we found a world-class hotel right here in the Sooner State where you'll never forget your stay. 21C Museum Hotel in Oklahoma City is both a boutique hotel and contemporary art museum that has been voted the best hotel in Oklahoma. Here's more on this contemporary art hotel and why you'll want to book an overnight stay as soon as possible:
Located in a former Ford Motor Company plant, 21C Museum Hotel is located at 900 West Main Street in Oklahoma City. Just look for the iconic purple penguins and you'll know you arrived.
The art exhibits rotate so you never know what unique art will be on display. You can explore the art on your own or meet in the lobby on Tuesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. for a guided tour.
There are 135 rooms and suites in the hotel and each one boasts a modern, clean vibe. They have a NYC loft vibe and we are in love with the contemporary feel.
The rooftop penthouse is a prime space to enjoy some fresh air. They kept the iconic water tower that bears the Fred Jones name, a worker who came up the ranks in Ford and later bought the operation.
Mary Eddy’s Dining Room is located in the hotel and offers an elevated experience with American classics. They are open for dinner only but if you're looking for a more casual dining option check out the Pool Bar.
Outside the hotel is a 16-foot tree named the Woozy Blossom that emits an intermittent mist along Main Street. There's nothing ordinary about this museum and hotel. The next time you're looking for a getaway with a NYC vibe, head to OKC to 21C and enjoy a night to remember.
If you're looking for an activity to do in the heart of Oklahoma City, head over to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, an urban garden with indoor and outdoor attractions.
