RESIDENT MAGAZINE
Carece Slaughter

There’s a remarkable feeling of sophistication and intentionality in every corner of The Crescent Hotel Fort Worth, a luxury destination that beckons guests to experience an unexpected side of “Cowtown.” Having lived most of my adult life in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, I thought I knew Fort Worth well. However, my recent stay at The Crescent Hotel revealed an entirely different side of this city—one steeped in art, culture, and luxury that felt worlds away from the Fort Worth I’d experienced before. I was transported into an immersive world of art, fine dining, and wellness that perfectly captures the balance of Fort Worth’s cosmopolitan charm with its rich cultural heritage.

There’s a remarkable feeling of sophistication and intentionality in every corner of The Crescent Hotel Fort Worth, a luxury destination that beckons guests to experience an unexpected side of “Cowtown.” Having lived most of my adult life in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, I thought I knew Fort Worth well. However, my recent stay at The Crescent Hotel revealed an entirely different side of this city—one steeped in art, culture, and luxury that felt worlds away from the Fort Worth I’d experienced before. I was transported into an immersive world of art, fine dining, and wellness that perfectly captures the balance of Fort Worth’s cosmopolitan charm with its rich cultural heritage.

Under the attentive direction of General Manager Roberto van Geenen, the hospitality team demonstrated a level of graciousness and care that made each interaction feel effortless, from the concierge’s seamless recommendations to the wonderfully attentive waitstaff at Emilia’s. Over three unforgettable days, I explored the hotel’s striking art collection, savored culinary delights, and found serenity at the Canyon Ranch Wellness Club and Spa—a place where each experience felt meticulously crafted, inviting, and elevated.

Upon entering the Crescent’s sunlit lobby, I immediately sensed a departure from the familiar Western aesthetic often associated with Texas. The hotel, nestled in Fort Worth’s Cultural District, is both a sanctuary of contemporary art and a tribute to the city’s vibrant creative legacy. Inspired by the nearby Kimbell Museum of Art and designed by the esteemed Rottet Studiothe, the hotel is a modern masterpiece that complements the surrounding area’s iconic architecture.

As I wandered through the hotel, I discovered a carefully curated collection of local and international artwork—a gallery in its own right. The Kimbell’s influence is unmistakable in the Crescent’s architectural lines, which draw the eye upward and create a sense of expansive tranquility. Each piece, displayed thoughtfully along hallways and in shared spaces, draws guests into the Fort Worth art scene, offering a connection to the city’s cultural heritage in a way that feels authentic and immersive.

My Suite: Where Comfort Meets Artful Elegance

The suite itself was a refined escape, a place where luxury meets local character. Bathed in natural light, it offered panoramic views of the Cultural District—a stunning backdrop for the suite’s elegantly curated decor. The room’s design mirrored the hotel’s ethos: understated luxury with an appreciation for Fort Worth’s artistic roots. Each amenity, from the artisanal toiletries to the locally inspired artwork, felt like a thoughtful nod to both comfort and culture. My suite became more than just a place to stay; it was a space to unwind, reflect, and connect with the ambiance of Fort Worth’s most cosmopolitan side.

The Crescent’s Artful Spaces: The Circle Bar and Beyond

As part of the hotel’s homage to Fort Worth’s creative spirit, The Circle Bar was a revelation. Named after the influential Fort Worth Circle artist collective, the bar encapsulates the hotel’s artistic narrative with gilded accents, art deco-inspired fixtures, and sleek curves that evoke the collective’s avant-garde influence. Here, I enjoyed a cocktail that paid homage to Mediterranean flavors, all while surrounded by a design that celebrated artistry and elegance in equal measure. Each sip, each angle, each lighting detail felt like an invitation to relax and embrace the artistic side of Fort Worth.

Culinary Excellence: Dining at Emilia’s and The Blue Room

Dining at The Crescent Hotel Fort Worth is a journey unto itself, where each meal feels like a thoughtfully crafted work of art. Emilia’s, the main dining venue, is a coastal Mediterranean oasis that brings fresh, vibrant flavors to the heart of Texas. The Creste di Gallo, Rock Shrimp, Blistered Tomato Fra Diavolo was a highlight, showcasing Chef Preston Paine’s culinary expertise. To elevate the experience further, Wine Sommelier Joel Treviño curated exquisite wine pairings that perfectly complemented each meal, enhancing the flavors with selections as thoughtful as the cuisine.

The Blue Room, an intimate enclave within Emilia’s, offers elevated fine dining. Dimly lit and with luxurious finishes and graceful arches, this space transports you to a 1920s jazz-era setting, where dishes like lobster fra diavolo bring a theatrical flair to the meal. The attention to detail, from the sommelier’s wine selections to the impeccable service, makes each course feel both extravagant and personal.

Canyon Ranch Wellness Club and Spa: A Sanctuary of Well-Being

The Canyon Ranch Wellness Club and Spa is not just a spa; it’s a holistic retreat that balances relaxation with world-class wellness expertise. My experience began with a personalized wellness consultation, setting the tone for a rejuvenating Omorovicza Gold Hydralifting Facial. The spa’s luxurious treatment rooms, combined with expert therapists, transformed each moment into a sensory escape. The club’s facilities, including the BOD POD® and state-of-the-art fitness equipment, cater to every wellness journey, making it clear that Canyon Ranch prioritizes mind, body, and soul.

The Crescent Hotel’s Commitment to Cultural Immersion

The Crescent’s dedication to art and cultural immersion is unmatched, and it’s this commitment that sets the hotel apart. Throughout my stay, I felt deeply connected to Fort Worth’s artistic legacy, both within the hotel and its vibrant surroundings. With The Modern Art Museum, The Will Rogers Memorial Center and the Kimbell Art Museum just steps away, I had access to some of the city’s top cultural sites. The hotel even offers exclusive experiences, such as museum tours and artist meet-and-greets, ensuring guests leave with a meaningful connection to Fort Worth’s unique character.

TCU and The Crescent Hotel: A Unique Connection

Beyond its dedication to art and luxury, The Crescent Hotel has cultivated a close relationship with Texas Christian University (TCU), making it a premier destination for families, alumni, and fans visiting the city. From custom game-day experiences to tailored family gatherings, The Crescent goes out of its way to create meaningful connections for TCU visitors. For me, this discovery was especially poignant; as a mother of a TCU alum, I felt an immediate connection to the hotel’s thoughtful commitment to the university community. This unique touch, from football weekends to alumni reunions, makes The Crescent more than just a luxury hotel—it’s a gathering place for TCU families to celebrate and reconnect, fostering memories that are as timeless as the hotel itself.

A Memorable Farewell

As I prepared to depart, I reflected on how The Crescent Hotel Fort Worth exudes a sophistication and creativity that celebrates Fort Worth’s evolving identity. It is more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway into the cultural and artistic soul of the city. The blend of thoughtful design, curated art, and genuine hospitality creates an experience that goes beyond luxury, inviting guests to engage with Fort Worth on a deeper level. For anyone seeking a sophisticated yet soulful stay, The Crescent Hotel offers an experience that resonates long after checkout.

For those who believe that travel should be as enriching as it is relaxing, The Crescent Hotel Fort Worth stands as an inspiring destination, where each moment and every detail tells a story of art, culture, and timeless elegance.

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