Hotel Drover Fort Worth
I arrived early for the recent MtM Diamond meetup in San Antonio, but I was slow to leave the state. Armed with a DFW connection and a couple Marriott 50k certs, I booked the Hotel Drover Fort Worth. I’d been curious about this Autograph Collection property since its opening a few years back, so this stay was seemingly meant to be. But, of course, I didn’t want to get ahead of myself, especially with Marriott. Was this the early Christmas gift I had hoped for? Here are the highlights from a stay full of character and characters.
An Eventful Arrival
I arrived at Hotel Drover Fort Worth a bit after dark on a Sunday. But the property was bustling like it was a Friday or Saturday night. As I approached check-in, I noticed a lobby chock full of joyful visitors in their cowboy and cowgirl best. I wasn’t surprised, considering the Hotel Drover – in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards – leans into that vibe.
A front desk agent heartily greeted me and took care of my check-in. He promptly noted my Platinum status and advised on the elite perks unique to the property. But one fun option is available to all – a free luggage tag branded by the concierge. I’ll have more on all of this in a bit.
I asked the agent about upgrade availability, noting that my Nightly Upgrade Award request didn’t clear in advance. He easily found minor upgrade availability to a Soaking Tub Deluxe King room for my Sunday through Tuesday stay. I thanked him, accepted the small win, and was on my way.
The Room
My second floor room fairly close to the elevator faced the Drover’s courtyard, festively decorated with gleaming lights for the holiday season. I passed by the bathroom and the bench/wardrobe setup into the main area of the room. The plush king faced the expansive windows, with a couch, chair and coffee table underneath. The television and desk setup are located perpendicular to the bed, maybe a nuisance to those trying to extensively watch. But such is life with certain room types in many hotels. The view and small touches were worth such spatial oddities.
I primarily noticed those slight upgrades in the bathroom, where a cozy-for-one soaking tub is the centerpiece. A small TV faces the tub, one I felt obligated to watch while drawing the bath. The double vanity, powder room, and separate shower flank the tub. The bathroom offers striking tiling and ample lighting, including handy night settings.
My room didn’t offer any drawers; visitors will need to suffice with a small closet space shared by the coffee station, minibar, and safe. On the flip side, there’s more than enough room to dress – a bench and hooks at entry and a separate chair with plenty of hanging space across the room.
While probably not as opulent as the design and finish of the Bowie House Fort Worth, I found this room just as welcoming and functional.
Dining and Other Amenities
I enjoyed two breakfasts at the Drover’s main restaurant, 97 West. It’s a seemingly popular spot, and I understand why. The restaurant faces Mule Alley, a short stretch of shops, tourist traps, and other dining choices. It’s a prime photo opportunity this time of year, as well.
At check-in, I received two passes for continental breakfast each morning of my stay. But the menu doesn’t offer that, and my waiter advised of the two alternatives. Bonvoy Platinum and above members are entitled to the Ranch Hand breakfast, 97 West’s version of a traditional plate, or a $15 credit for anything else on the menu. I opted for the former each day.
My eggs came a perfect over medium on both occasions, and I opted for country ham the first day and bacon the second. I preferred the ham option. Highlights were the fresh biscuits with strawberry preserves, prominent peppers and onions with fresh potatoes, and hot sauce made in-house. Unsurprisingly, portions are hearty in this neck of the woods. I didn’t finish my plate on either day. Two adults can share a breakfast entree and feel satisfied without ruining the day’s other meal opportunities.
There’s More….
In addition to the breakfast perk, I received a pass for a separate $10 food and beverage credit. I opted to use this for a beer at 97 West’s bar. The Drover offers two smaller bars, as well – one inside adjacent to the lobby, and the other outside next to the courtyard. All beers priced just under $10 before taxes and gratuity. One final F&B note – the savings from all passes were applied at the restaurant. There was no need to mess with any of these matters at checkout. Are you listening, Hilton Honors?
I took advantage of the spotless fitness center, holding plenty of cardio equipment, free weights, and a few machines. The gym offers plenty of natural light with parking lot views. The outdoor pool is heated and available year-round. Check out other amenities here.
Service
The Hotel Drover operates like a well-oiled machine. I can’t recall the last time I’ve seen such a busy property handle most everything so flawlessly. Check-in was a cinch and housekeeping on point. Restaurant and bar waitstaff delivered thoughtful service with just the right amount of warm conversation.
I’m glad I took advantage of the luggage tag perk on the night of my arrival (one complimentary tag per room reservation). The multi-talented concierge brands these tags daily from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. The line is long but moves fast. This is obviously a great option for families and solo travel enthusiasts alike.
Hotel Drover Fort Worth – Conclusion
The Hotel Drover Fort Worth is conveniently located next to the Fort Worth Stockyards and related tourist destinations, but not much else. Bowie House is the better pick for those wanting more convenient access to Fort Worth’s stellar art museums and Dickies Arena. But, like the Stockyards, the Hotel Drover delivers that Texas feel better than most other areas of the DFW Metroplex. It’s a pretty solid mix of Texas luxury and hospitality. While I don’t have plans to return to the Stockyards area, Hotel Drover is my top lodging pick if I do.
Have you visited the Hotel Drover Fort Worth? What’s your take on the property?
