ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: I arrived at DFW Airport a bit later than GT’s CEO/publisher Francis X. Gallagher. We were both in town to meet with clients and prepare for our upcoming The Trazees awards to be held in Dallas during the Global Business Travel Association convention this summer. As I looked out the window from the backseat of my Uber ride, I realized we were driving by the famed “grassy knoll” in downtown Dallas, and I began to wonder what additional history might await me on this trip.
Housed within an old warehouse space, Aloft Dallas Downtown is full of original exposed brick and showcases enormously high ceilings as one walks into the open first-floor lobby. During check-in, I asked about the history of the building. The desk clerk said it once was a clothing factory and, upon renovation, they decided to keep as much of the original structure as possible.
The check-in process itself was simple and smooth. Arriving in December, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful Christmas decorations within the large, open lobby, as well as the echoing sound of my heels and roller bag on the cement floors, as I made my way toward the elevators.
GUEST QUARTERS: I was upgraded to a Savvy Suite on the third floor, featuring 650 square feet of space. Upon entry, I quickly realized the industrial chic décor not only filled the lobby but spilled into my room as well.
A desk with numerous tech gadgets and charging options, two chairs and a long bench filled the room, with a large, flat-screen TV mounted on the wall. After dropping off my coat, I walked into the bathroom to find sleek and modern finishes and a glass door shower. Finally, my suite opened into two additional spaces, cleverly separated by an entertainment table and another flat- screen TV which swiveled to be viewable from both sides of the table. One space housed the king-sized bed with a large mural of sunflowers across the top, while the other space offered an inviting loveseat, chairs and a general living room kind of feel. The ceilings were highly unusual, exposing the ducts and pipes along with a repeated pattern of what appeared to be ripped patches of previously glued tiles. The curtains in the living area covered more exposed brick and the full-length windows which opened to a view of the city. Savvy, indeed … I had multiple spaces to work within, offering several opportunities for sitting, working or simply relaxing.
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Aloft properties are generally known for being a little “fresh and funky” in a good way, and the Downtown Dallas property proves no exception. The first-floor lobby boasts colorful, modern art against exposed brick and open ceilings. Numerous cement pillars stand in contrast to colorful rugs, chairs and pillows, making several different seating options feel cozy and warm. WXYZ bar is the main focal point of the lobby, offering drinks and an easy meeting place for colleagues or friends, but there’s also a grab-and-go pantry with fresh salads, snacks and limited made-to-order options. The hotel houses numerous event meeting spaces downstairs from the lobby, perfect for our upcoming Trazee Travel’s The Trazees awards event this August. The hotel also sits directly across the street from Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center, an easy walk for those participating in this year’s GBTA convention.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- Trendy, with a loft-inspired kind of feel, this hotel offers a significant break from most cookie-cutter options in traditional hotel settings.
- A perfect stay for convention attendees, it’s an easy walk to Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center and one of the more afford- able options in the area.
- Larger suites offer extra space, with intentional and well-thought-out design, perfect for longer stays, even if quirky in color scheme and design.
ALOFT DALLAS DOWNTOWN
1033 Young St.
Dallas, TX 75202
tel 214 761 0000
marriott.com
Read This Next

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 17, 2025UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages in 2024
From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Vietnam, travelers can now discover the 55 newest Best Tourism Villages of 2024 as researched by UN Tourism. These are not overcrowded, mass-tourism villages, but instead very rural destinations that have consolidated their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
March 2025
Mar 17, 2025Buenos Aires Embraces Life with Art, Music, Sports and Fine Food
The fascinating city of Buenos Aires has managed to maintain its appeal for travelers despite Argentina’s roller coaster economic history.
Daily
Mar 17, 2025Welcome the Arrival of Tulip Season in Amsterdam with Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky
Every spring, Amsterdam’s parks and fields erupt into an array of colors with the arrival of tulip season. To help travelers have the ultimate experience, Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam offers three curated experiences celebrating the iconic flower through historical insights, natural immersion and gourmet food.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
Slideshow
Mar 17, 20256 Reasons to Put Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Santa Fe, New Mexico, with us.
Norwegian Debuts Late Disembarkation Option
March 2025
Mar 15, 2025Glamorous Flamingo Las Vegas Gets Pool Makeover
Daily
Mar 14, 2025Daily
Mar 13, 2025Sedona, Arizona, Hotel Promises Perfect Nature-Centric Stay
Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at L’Auberge de Sedona. This luxury property in Sedona, Arizona, invites travelers to reconnect with nature through its accommodations and outdoor experiences.
Sponsored Content
Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive
Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.
Daily
Mar 13, 2025Ancient Baths Brand Opens Second Location in New York City
AIRE Ancient Baths officially opened the doors of its second New York City location March 1, bringing even more wellness to New Yorkers and visitors. Following the success of its location in Tribeca, AIRE New York Upper East Side debuts, blending ancient traditions from Roman, Greek and Ottoman civilizations.
ShareThis