The Hilton Anatole Dallas Offers Camp Anatole: A Cozy, Camp-Inspired Escape
Imagine the kiddos cozying up under twinkling party lights in their very own indoor teepee complete with a plush “campfire,” camp games, stickers, books, a cuddly “Tilly the Elephant” (Hilton’s adorable mascot), journals in hand accompanied by a rustic twig pencil, specialty cake pops…and LOTS of treats! Camp Anatole transforms family stays into a cozy, campsite-inspired adventure with the cutest camp-themed bedding and decor galore! With a breathtaking view of Dallas as the backdrop, I recommend my experience of glamping on the 26th floor as an effortless, memory-making family getaway this summer!
A Glimpse into the History of The Anatole
Built in 1979 by legendary developer Trammell Crow, the hotel—originally named the Loews Anatole—has long been a shining Dallas icon with “Anatole” meaning “sunrise” or “rising of the sun” in French. Sprawling across 46 acres near downtown, it was named after one of Crow’s favorite Copenhagen restaurants and opened with pyramid-topped towers offering around 900 guest rooms and an atrium with dramatic grandeur. The hotel underwent a major expansion in 1981 and added a 27-story tower, which increased the room count to over 1,600. A $125 million renovation in 2010, followed by a $30 million refresh, modernized the space while preserving its elegance. Still owned by Crow Holdings and managed by Hilton since 2005, the Anatole blends timeless elegance with world-class hospitality. In other words…no expense has been spared for a superb experience at the Hilton Anatole.
JadeWaters Resort Pool
Who says you need a tropical island to live your best poolside life? JadeWaters Resort Pool Complex was the Anatole’s $20 million water park upgrade in 2016, and is a splashy oasis right in the heart of Dallas. With a lazy river, kids’ splash zone, two 180-foot water slides, a 23-seat swim-up bar, and luxe cabanas with flatscreens, it’s the ultimate summer escape. I indulged in one of their seven exclusive poolside experiences—a cozy woven basket daybed paired with a sage green cooler packed with bottled water, coordinating striped beach towels, and a great view of the water features. What to order for a snack? A deluxe charcuterie, a cheeseburger with fries (yes, please!), plus an array of salsas and tortilla chips. Even if you’re not staying overnight, day passes and cabana rentals make JadeWaters an ideal location for a party or event. If the Texas weather doesn’t cooperate on your visit, there’s always the indoor pool!
Something Sweet!
You can’t miss the bright umbrellas and inviting picnic tables outside the hotel’s candy store—an explosion of color and sweetness. From bulk bins of nostalgic candy to soft-serve ice cream, Tilly the Elephant plush toys, and fun little trinkets, it’s a whimsical and charming stop for families or anyone with a sweet tooth.
A Destination for Art Appreciation
The Hilton Anatole isn’t just a hotel—it doubles as a museum. Boasting more than 1,000 exotic works of art, the property offers a cultural journey through sculptures, paintings, and architectural accents. The Trinity Corridor is lined with paintings and beautifully ornate botanical floor coverings. Among the treasures are two massive segments of the Berlin Wall–symbols of freedom–with German artist Jurden Grope’s 1990 painted touches including a message which translates as “a long length of time.” A pair of eight-foot-tall elephants, carved in Thailand in 1983 and purchased by the Crow Collection to commemorate the 1984 Republican National Convention held at the hotel, stand majestically outside the Chantilly Ballroom. It’s an art experience woven into every step of your stay.
Top Golf Swing Suite
Whether you’re hanging out with the family or hosting a team-building event, the Top Golf Swing Suite provides interactive fun for all ages. Located in the Grand Atrium, it offers three bays for immersive virtual games. Choose from over 40 golf courses, or switch it up with zombie dodgeball, football, baseball, or hockey. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to book a bay. My golf skills? Let’s just say they left much to be desired, but the delicious food and the laughs made up for it!
The Grand Atrium
Step into the Grand Atrium and look up—you’ll be captivated by “The Nebula,” a stunning illuminated kinetic art sculpture by Reuben Margolin that seems to gracefully “swim” in the center of the atrium despite the fact that it weighs over 12,000 pounds. Relax in the tranquility of a peaceful reflecting pond, lush indoor gardens, and thoughtfully placed teak seating. With boutique shopping and art accents throughout, The Grand Atrium is a spot to pause, unwind, and soak in Hilton Anatole’s serene side.
Culinary Delights at Hilton Anatole
From gourmet experiences to casual bites, the Anatole’s dining scene hits every note. Start your day at Media Grill & Bar with a fresh, bountiful breakfast buffet, or grab something quick from Counter Offer, which serves Starbucks coffee, wine, beer, and food or treats. Whether dining in the atrium, poolside, at Top Golf Swing Suite, or SER, I found every snack and meal consistently appetizing. With a hotel this large and the incredible capacity for guests and large events, it takes an extremely talented and trusted leader to maintain the top-tier standards of this property. Executive Chef Arnaud Massat, born and trained in France, brings over 25 years of international culinary excellence to the Hilton Anatole, ensuring the highest standards in food quality and flavor in all of the dining experiences.
SER Steak + Spirits
Perched on the 27th floor, SER Steak + Spirits serves up sweeping views of the Dallas skyline alongside a menu of wood-fired prime steaks, fresh seafood, and locally inspired vegetarian dishes. If you haven’t heard of Chef Aubrey Murphy, it’s time to take notice! His experience, attention to detail, creativity, and unique presentations make him the surprisingly humble heartbeat of SER and the professional staff. I enjoyed one of the finest steaks and certainly the most dramatic dry ice shrimp presentations I’ve seen! Expect an elevated experience, a curated wine cellar with over 350 labels, exclusive SER whiskey made by Garrison Brothers, craft cocktails, and live music on the weekends. Whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging, this is the crown jewel of Hilton Anatole’s culinary offerings.
Special Events and Conventions
With over 600,000 square feet of event space, including 79 meeting rooms and nine spectacular ballrooms, the Hilton Anatole is a powerhouse venue for everything from weddings and galas to fundraisers and corporate conventions. The Crystal Charity Ball is always a much-anticipated grand event and held at the hotel annually since 1993. The atmosphere is always buzzing with energy, elegance, and seamless execution.
Verandah Club & Spa
Are you a health and wellness seeker? The Verandah Fitness Club is a massive 80,000-square-foot fitness haven featuring everything from personal training and group classes to memberships and luxury 5-star spa services. Whether you’re breaking a sweat or winding down with a massage, Verandah Club and Spa supports your goals in style! Choose from the menu of services even if you are not an overnight guest.
A Short Walk Away: Medieval Times
Just a short walk from the hotel, you’ll find yourself transported to another world of royal flair at Medieval Times. Experience a live jousting tournament, skilled horsemanship, falconry, and a four-course feast—antiquated castle dining style—be prepared to eat without utensils! I experienced a little rain on my way over, but catching a flower from the Blue Knight totally made up for it. If you’ve been, you know it’s quirky, theatrical, and loads of fun.
A Heartfelt Experience: The Hilton Anatole Staff
What also sets the Hilton Anatole apart is the staff. Throughout my stay, I chatted with team members who not only shared their passion for their careers, but interesting stories spanning from somewhat ordinary experiences to over-the-top glamorous weddings, high-profile events, with dignitary guests and celebrity sightings throughout the years. Many have been part of the Anatole family for decades, and their loyalty is commendable. The Crow family is genuinely respected by the staff—who are treated not just as employees, but as valued members of a close-knit Hilton team. That unique camaraderie infuses guest interaction with warm authenticity.
The Hilton Anatole Isn’t Just a Place to Stay—It’s a Destination of Curated Details
Whether you’re camping with the kids at Camp Anatole, floating along at JadeWaters, grabbing a sweet treat, enjoying the Top Golf Suites, dining in style at SER, or uncovering history through world-class art, this hotel offers the enticing blend of luxury, culture, and heartfelt hospitality. Visit for the day, stay a night—or a week—and leave with stories to share. Dallas has many gems, but the Hilton Anatole shines in a class of its own.
-Melissa
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