Hotel History

Originally opened in 1969, The Fairmont Dallas became the luxury Dallas destination overnight, in what many considered the country's most exciting and dynamic city.  The downtown hotel was a dramatic addition to the Dallas Skyline and was dubbed the city's finest hotel. 

Often called "the Arts District Hotel," The Fairmont Dallas remains at the center of downtown Dallas' many unique attractions including The Dallas Museum of Art, I.M. Pei-designed Meyerson Symphony Hall, AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas World Aquarium, West End Historic District, Nasher Sculpture Center and American Airlines Center (home of the Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks) - all located within blocks of the hotel.

Entertainment is an integral part of the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts tradition. Since its inception, The Fairmont Dallas, Texas hotel has hosted many of the city’s most important social, charitable, civic and business events during its forty-one year history and the famed Venetian Room has showcased many of the world's most beloved entertainers.

The Fairmont Dallas Grand Opening

A formal gala opening was scheduled for The Fairmont Dallas for May 7, 1969. In April a water main on the mezzanine level burst, sending three to four inches of water onto the floor and through the ceiling of the lobby, ruining several thousand feet of carpeting. The hotel recovered, however, for the lavish May 7 official opening.

Labeled Le Bal de Dallas, the glitzy party doubled as a benefit for the Dallas Civic Opera. The Arabian Nights-themed party was over the top, even by Dallas standards. Guests were greeted by six uniformed trumpeters and the lobby was the setting for seventy-five violinists, living exotic fish in aquarium displays, Persian dancers and a shower of golden confetti and caviar by the ton.

Dinner courses were served in parade form, beginning with the soup course, led by two live gold and silver-clad baby elephants, each carrying a costumed woman tossing fake gold nuggets, pulled from cauldrons of steaming dry ice, to the party guests. Following dessert, the elephants reappeared, drawing a coach carrying singer Robert Goulet, who serenaded the guests.

Thus began the long tradition of glamorous galas at The Fairmont Dallas.