Marriott International’s Autograph Collection is channelling memories of the Wild West with the opening of a one-of-a-kind property, Hotel Drover, in Texas.

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District has welcomed the launch of Hotel Drover. More precisely located in Mule Alley, a thriving entertainment destination created by restoring and transforming the area’s 100-year-old horse and mule barns, this unique scheme stays true to the Autograph Collection’s independent spirit.

A rustic-luxe design

Interestingly, the Wild West is threaded through all aspects of the hotel, including its rustic-luxe design. This is embellished with standout details like the signature neon Cowboy installation by famed local signmaker Neon Jungle, a hybrid metal sculpture by artist John Lopez, and custom furnishings from Texas artisans such as the Hotel Drover-branded leather check-in booths and, in the two-storey lobby library, the bespoke antler and blackened steel chandeliers, and cowhide lounge chairs.

The 200 guestrooms, meanwhile – each of which have been individually designed – include standouts like The Bunkhouse rooms, featuring king-size beds with overhead bunk beds for flexible sleeping arrangements, and the Presidential Suite, with its indoor and outdoor fireplace.

Over at the open kitchen in the signature 97 West Kitchen & Bar, executive chef Grand Morgan serves a menu of elevated Texan classics like sweet tea-marinated fried green tomatoes or wood-grilled ribeye cap steak salad against a background of handcrafted furniture and art, and authentic repurposed wood floors. There are three private dining rooms, alongside an indoor and outdoor chef’s table and two drinking spots – Veranda Bar and Lobby Bar – which serve creative cocktails from local distillers, an all-American wine list, and iced and frosted beer taps featuring domestic and local brews

Vaulted ceilings and crystal chandeliers

The hotel has nearly 40,000 sq ft of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, including The Barn, a 4,000 sq ft venue with vaulted ceilings, glitzy custom Italian crystal chandeliers, abundant natural lighting and sprawling landscaped outdoor lawn.

Additionally, Hotel Drover goes above and beyond to deliver distinctive experiences. These include The Backyard, which unfolds over a beautiful ranch-style heated pool and Jacuzzi, private cabanas, fire pits, bar seating and yard games; a kid’s programme called Lil Ropers; a Happy Tails pet package; and two unique lobby boutique shops, Lucchese Custom Collection, which has been making handcrafted boots since 1883, and Little White Lies, offering a carefully curated selection of apothecary, jewelry, accessories and one-of-a-kind vintage items.

Perhaps the most unique touch is the personal luggage tags, which guests can make themselves with the help of the hotel’s blacksmith.

“We’re proud to open our doors at Hotel Drover and connect our guests to the rich history of the pioneering West through captivating offerings, art, entertainment, personalised service and cuisine,” said vice president and general manager Kristin Assad. “Every inch of this hotel was carefully curated with our community in mind so guests may enjoy a legendary experience that is deeply rooted in Texas.”

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