Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City

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During a recent road trip, we were in Oklahoma City for one night and had the pleasure of being hosted by The Skirvin Hilton Hotel.  While new and modern hotels have their appeal, there’s nothing quite like an older, historic hotel.  You always think – if these walls could talk.  

The Skirvin Hilton Hotel is located in the heart of Oklahoma City so it’s convenient to many popular venues, shops, restaurants, and attractions.  With being a part of the Hilton Hotel family and Historic Hotels of America,  you know you are going to get great service with these credentials.

The Skirvin Hilton Hotel

When you drive up to The Skirvin Hilton Hotel, the beauty of this historic hotel built in 1911 lets you know it’s special.  It did remind me a lot of a local hotel, The Read House, here in Chattanooga, built in 1872 with its beautiful architecture.

There are valet or self-parking options, and we chose valet.  We were greeted quickly by two young gentlemen with welcoming smiles and a bottle of water.  It was hot out that day.  They were a bit relieved when I told them not everything had to be unloaded from the car.  We were on a 17-day road trip, so I had a lot. 

Later they were great at making suggestions on options for dinner and drinks. 

The Skirvin Hilton Hotel Lobby

The beautiful dark wood just adds to the elegance. 

You see history all through the lobby with photos of celebrities who have stayed there from the likes of president Eisenhower to Elvis Presley, actors, and other political figures. But I couldn’t find a picture of Elvis.

One of the original owner’s daughters, Perle Skirvin Mesta, was later named the Ambassador to Luxembourg under President Truman.

A little bit of modern look comes from this Lego structure had a collection of downtown OKC landmarks, all made from Legos, as a fundraiser.  It benefited OKC Educare School and had over 100,000 visiting the exhibit.  The Skirvin Model was one of the favorites, then later donated to the hotel.

 

Our Suite

Our room for the evening was this spacious Rotunda Suite. 

I felt like we were walking into an apartment with the tiled entry way, a very large bathroom, the living room with room to spread out, and a comfortable bed.  What wasn’t to like about this suite?

Amenities Galore Available at The Skirvin Hilton Hotel

 

After strolling through the lobby, there’s an indoor pool, a fitness center, all day dining options, free Wi-Fi, and even an EV charging station.

It is known for the go-to place for weddings in the area.  Who wouldn’t love the backdrops available?

There’s even an old timey mail box at the original elevators.

Dining at Park Avenue Grill

Begin your day at Park Avenue Grill for a cooked to order breakfast, or maybe on the lighter side of fruit and yogurt.  Excellent coffee as well which is always a plus in my book.

Then return later in the day for the farm-to-table upscale menu options in a tastefully decorated Art Deco style.  From the upscale grill you will also find a bit of the Southwest taste infused into several menu items. 

The Red Piano

Yes, there’s a red piano.  Enjoy music 6-nights a week in the living room feel area just off the lobby.  Small plates are offered during the afternoon and evening to go with the wide array of drink and wine options.  This is one of the favorite spots in the downtown area for friends and business associates to meet up.  You have a little nostalgic feel while listening to the music, many time Jazz is the norm.

Enjoy a game of checkers or chess while enjoying a little down time, or your favorite cocktail.

History of Skirvin Hilton Hotel

The hotel opened in 1911 as the first and grandest hotel in this part of the country.

The original owner, William Ballser Skirvin (Bill) built this place on land that was won in the Oklahoma Land Run. With taxes and fees, the parcel cost $13.  Who wouldn’t love a deal like that?

You might notice the Bacchus heads at the tops of the columns.   These were sculpted so that patrons would know that the Skirvin Hotel was a “friendly place.” (had alcohol). They were constructed at the height of Prohibition because the Skirvin Hotel loved a good joke.

Things to See and Do in Oklahoma City

Due to time, we only had a few hours to explore this great city, but plans are already under way to make a return visit. 

One of my biggest regrets was not being able to explore the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum

This was built as a memorial to the victims of the Oklahoma City Bombing on April 19, 1995.  Another day which we will never forget.  Have you been?

Paycom Center

Home to the NBA Oklahoma City Thunder, is within walking distance of The Skirvin Hilton Hotel.  There’s also many musical events, concerts, and other sporting events held there.  Tickets to these games are very reasonable compared to many other NBA teams.

Bricktown – Downtown OKC

This was a great area just a few blocks from the hotel. It was full of shopping, restaurants, and entertainment venues, perfect for a night out on the town.  

The Canal

This canal with boats reminded me of San Antonio

 Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark

Home of the OKC Dodgers, a Triple-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers

A statue of Mickey Mantle stands in front.  Born in Oklahoma, he had no ties to Oklahoma City.  A nearly identical statue stands in his hometown of Commerce, OK

 

Bricktown Brewery

A great dinner which was a recommendation from the valet guys at the hotel

I can’t wait until a return trip to Oklahoma City can be planned.  It’s a great city with so much to offer and explore.

Another Historic Hotel

We had a great stay at LA FONDA ON THE PLAZA

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