If you're in Dallas for a business trip or just a brief vacation, or are hoping to avoid too much time on Dallas freeways, you'd do well to choose your hotel according to neighborhood. Some of the city's best hotels are downtown near the central business and Dallas Arts District, and in the fashionable area called Uptown, but many more hotels (especially more affordable chains) are nestled in North Dallas and near Irving. For most people, the latter locations will involve considerably more highway time, because Dallas is so spread out.
Dallas has a bundle of excellent choices at the top end, many chic and modern, but a number of them surprisingly Old World in feel. The majority of hotel offerings in the city are large and luxurious, well-run hotels aimed squarely at business travelers, though some very appealing boutique hotels have also taken root. The high-end luxury market has really taken off, with two new five-star offerings -- the Mandarin (scheduled to open in 2010) and the Ritz-Carlton -- competing with the most ballyhooed properties. The best of the cheaper options are all-suites hotels. Note: Reservations in Dallas are toughest to come by when conventions take over the city. Check as early as possible with the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau to find out if your visit coincides with major business traffic to the city.
The rates cited are high-season rack rates -- few people pay list price, and you shouldn't either. At a minimum, request the lower, corporate rate and ask about special deals. Virtually all hotels offer some deals, especially on weekends when their business clientele dries up. Check the individual hotels' websites for special online offers. The hotel occupancy tax in Dallas is 15% (the rates quoted below do not include tax). Breakfast, either continental or buffet, is offered free at several hotels, as noted below. Do not assume that breakfast is included; if it is not, it can really add to your bill.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
