Hotel Review: Hilton Skirvin Oklahoma City

I just completed a 3 night stay at this wonderful historic hotel.  The Skirvin opened in 1911, and was wonderfully restored a few years ago and reopened as the Hilton Skirvin.  The new owners did an indescribably teriffic job of maintaining many of the hotel’s historic touches from the tile floor in the lobby to the original elevator doors.  The Skirvin’s warm and friendly staff are a great finishing touch on a stay you are sure to enjoy.

Check-in

Checked in late Sunday night with no wait at the front desk.  In fact, the hotel seemed empty.  As a Hilton HHonors Gold member I was offered my choice of breakfast in the hotel restaurant, free internet or 1,000 HHonors bonus points.  I chose the internet.  My HHonors benefits are pre-selected at Hilton.com, and my choice is to receive a room upgrade when staying at Hilton, but none was offered.  However, I did receive a standard corner room on the 11th floor.  Hilton’s website seems to indicate that the hotel has an Executive Lounge, however, I was not offered access.  I realize that’s no longer guaranteed as a Gold member.

The Room

My 11th floor room was nicely appointed and equipped with all the modern amenities one would expect in a recently remodeled hotel.  Large flat screen TV, work desk with multiple electrical outlets, and wired or wireless internet.  The bathroom was of average size, but nicely appointed with Bath & Body toiletries and a nice shower.  Two plush robes were hanging in the somewhat smallesh closet.  But speaking as someone who lives in a home about the same age as the Skirvin, closets were not a priority 100 years ago!

Dining

I did not dine in the hotel restaurant, but I understand from my colleagues that it was quite nice, and breakfast was an especially good value.  I did visit the Red Piano lounge on two evenings.  Bar service was Oklahoma friendly and fast.  Better yet, prices were quite reasonable for such a nice hotel.  Try the 337 Cabernet if you’re here.  The lounge features live music most nights, with drink specials varying each evening.

The Skirvin is located within an easy walk of Oklahoma City’s Bricktown area.  Take in a baseball game or dine at any of the several restaurants.  If you enjoy a good cigar, do yourself a favor and visit Maker’s Cigar and Piano Lounge.  I never visit Oklahoma City without stopping by at least once.

Other Stay Details

I did not utilize the services of the business center which is located in the basement of the hotel.  I understand internet access on the business center computers was $.69 cents per minute.  A pretty tidy sum considering internet costs less on most cruise ships I’ve sailed!  The gym and pool are located on the same level.  I did make use of the nicely equipped gym which is stocked with some of the latest Precor fitness equipment.  Valet parking is a reasonable $20 dollars per day, with more reasonably priced, but less convenient parking available in a nearby public garage.

The Bottom Line

I really enjoyed my stay at the OKC Skirvin Hilton.  The history and beauty of the hotel is unparalleled in Oklahoma City.  If business or pleasure bring you to Oklahoma City, I highly recommend a stay at this beautiful hotel