An intimate look inside Fort Worth’s historic Harper Hotel, where legacy and modern luxury meet.
Written by Ele Michele
The Finer Side of Fort Worth
Standing among the concrete giants of Downtown Fort Worth, the wind feels just beneath my wings. Headlights from passing traffic illuminate the cobblestone underfoot as the last stretch of sunlight dances across the square. The ever-present kindred spirits — the valet — relieve me of my mobile duties for the time being, escorting me beyond ominous brass double doors and into a foyer anchored by a floor-to-ceiling Christmas tree, adorned with unmistakable care. A signature scent lingers in the air — a subtle blend of citrus, green tea, spice, and musk — and in that quiet moment, the feeling settles. I haven’t simply arrived somewhere new. I’ve arrived somewhere that already feels like home.
Built to last by premier designers Sanguinet & Staats in 1921, the building at 714 Main once stood as the tallest structure in Texas — a clear signal that Cowtown was thinking big even then. Nearly a century later, that same ambition carries forward with the opening of The Harper in 2021, a thoughtful reimagining that honors the building’s original vision. Rising 296 feet in Classic Revival style, the hotel now houses 226 boutique guest rooms and specialty suites, a ground-floor Italian restaurant, and a penthouse bar overlooking Fort Worth’s ever-evolving skyline. While its purpose has shifted, the spirit of the space remains intact.
Listed in the Michelin Guide — and for good reason — The Harper reflects Fort Worth’s character through thoughtful design and locally inspired details. Curated artwork and handcrafted furnishings lend the space a sense of quiet sophistication, balancing modern elegance with approachable comfort. Standout amenities reflect a commitment to both indulgence and care, from the playful Champagne Emergency Hotline — delivering a glass of bubbly anytime, anywhere — to the Complimentary On-Demand Family Fridge Program, offering added ease for traveling families.
Beyond its walls, The Harper invites guests to experience the city as locals do. Complimentary bicycles make exploring downtown effortless, while the Daily Social Hour fosters connection, bringing neighbors, travelers, and creatives together in a space designed for community.
Italian for “the way,” il Modo, The Harper’s award-winning Italian restaurant, shows guests exactly how to dine well. The menu centers on house-made pasta, family-style plates, and handcrafted cocktails paired with an impressive selection of fine wines. Brunch is servedboth weekdays and weekends — a distinction that earned il Modo the title of Fort Worth’s Best Brunch for two consecutive years. Signature dishes like the rich Bolognese, classic Cacio e Pepe, and delicately seared Branzino balance comfort with refinement.
Twenty-four floors above, the penthouse lounge, Refinery 714, offers a different kind of indulgence. Plush seating, inventive cocktails, and sweeping views of the Texas plains and Fort Worth skyline create an atmosphere that’s lively yet polished — a glimpse into why the space has been recognized as Best Lounge in Fort Worth.
At its heart, The Harper is guided by a hospitality philosophy that values people over polish. Rooted in Kimpton’s tradition of human hospitality and supported by IHG’s global stewardship, the hotel feels deeply personal while remaining built to last. As I step back onto the downtown streets, the city hums on — but at a gentler pace. The Harper doesn’t remove you from Fort Worth; it recalibrates how you move through it, leaving a sense of belonging that lingers long after the doors close behind you.
— The Finer Side of Fort Worth
The Finer Side of Fort Worth 