Tulsa's HOTTEST Hotel: Aloft Downtown - Unbelievable Views & Perks!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to get the real lowdown on Tulsa's Aloft Downtown. Forget those dry, cookie-cutter hotel reviews. This is gonna be messy, probably a little over-the-top, and guaranteed to have my actual feelings in it. Let's dive in, shall we?
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Alright, first things first: The Views, The Views, The VIEWS! Seriously, the marketing folks weren’t kidding. Aloft Downtown has some seriously bonkers views. I'm talking Instagram-worthy sunsets painting the Tulsa skyline. I spent like, an hour just staring out the window after I checked in. Honestly, just the sight of it made me feel instantly less stressed. (I have a job, so THAT'S saying something.)
Accessibility: Now, I can’t speak to EVERY single accessibility need, but I did check the room I had. Wheelchair accessible rooms are available (they're listed as such). The elevator is good to go. All the public areas seemed spacious enough. They definitely seem to be trying to be compliant (which, as a person with a couple of friends with mobility issues, is AWESOME).
Cleanliness and Safety - IMPORTANT!
Okay, so let's talk Pandemic-era stuff. They're doing their best, folks. They've got the anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and the staff is definitely wearing masks and seem to be practicing good hygiene. I saw them using professional-grade sanitizing services. My room felt clean, and that’s the main thing, right? (Though I will say, the room sanitization opt-out situation - where you can SAY you don't want your room touched - is a nice touch for those who are extra-cautious.) I did see hand sanitizer dispensers everywhere, and they had individually-wrapped food options. This is important! I’m not quite at the point where I'm super relaxed in hotels, but I was more comfortable than I expected to be. Staff trained in safety protocol.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - The Meat and Potatoes (But With Flair!):
Okay, the food. This is where it gets interesting. Let’s be real, hotel food can be a gamble. But… the Aloft surprised me.
- Restaurants: They have a restaurant right there. I had a few good meals there.
- Bar: The bar is where it's at. It's lively but not overwhelming. The bartender made a killer Old Fashioned!
- Poolside Bar: (Yes, you read that right, POOLSIDE BAR!) Since I went in the winter this was not an option, but it seemed like a fantastic option when it's open.
- Happy Hour: They definitely have it. Enough said.
Plus, there’s a coffee shop in the lobby that I probably visited a few too many times. (Caffeine is practically a necessity, right?) They definitely have restaurants.
What's available? I got food in my Room service [24-hour], Breakfast [buffet]. Breakfast takeaway service, Snack bar, A la carte in restaurant, Bottle of water.
Ways to Relax & Things to Do - Spa-tastic & Beyond!
This is where Aloft Downtown really shines.
- Swimming Pool: (Outdoor, and with a view!) It's heated, and the views are still stunning even with the winter chill.
- Fitness Center: Standard hotel gym, kept clean.
- Spa/Sauna: If you're into pampering, the spa is a must-do. They don’t have a huge menu, but what they do have is well-done.
- Sauna: Perfect for that post-workout chill.
- Massage: I had a massage. It was heavenly. Seriously, my shoulders haven’t felt that relaxed in… well, years. It was expensive, but worth it. I may have even dozed off. The therapist was amazing.
- Spa: They've got the full spa experience. It's not the biggest spa I have ever been to, but the ambiance is beautiful and it's a nice way to spend an hour.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things That Make a Difference:
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
- 24-hour Front Desk: Always a good thing.
- Concierge: Helpful.
- Laundry Service I needed it. I used it. It was fine.
- Luggage Storage: They held my stuff before check-in, which was super handy.
- Car park [on-site] I did park there, and it was easy.
- Cash withdrawal: Which came in handy at the bar, because I don't carry a lot of cash anymore.
Available in all rooms - The Nitty Gritty:
Okay, let's talk about the most important thing… the room!
- The Bed: Comfortable. Pillows were fluffy. I slept like a log.
- Blackout Curtains: Thank GOD. I'm a light sleeper.
- Air Conditioning: Crucial.
- Free Wi-Fi: Seriously, thank you.
- Coffee/Tea Maker: Caffeine. Always.
- Desk: Essential for pretending to work while enjoying the view.
- Refrigerator: Perfect for stashing snacks and drinks.
- Bathroom: Clean, modern, with a good shower.
- Soundproofing: I did not hear anything so I was happy!
Now for the real talk: the imperfections:
Okay, no place is perfect. Here are a few things that, if the hotel could fix, it would be even better:
- The Restaurant: (While good, it could be even better).
- Pet stuff: I'm not sure if they are pet-friendly, I did not see it and I don't own one.
Now for the HEART of the matter - The Emotional Takeaway
This hotel? It's got vibe. It's chic, it's lively, it's got the whole downtown Tulsa thing going on. I felt like I was actually on vacation, not just… in a hotel. I'm not saying it's perfect, but it is a great experience. It's a great starting point.
So, should you book?
YES!
Book Now Because:
- Unbelievable Views: Wake up to stunning sunrises over the Tulsa skyline. Perfect for that romantic getaway or a solo self-care trip.
- Prime Location: Downtown Tulsa at your fingertips! Restaurants, entertainment, and the city's best attractions are just steps away.
- Relax and Recharge: Spa, pool, and comfy beds – the ultimate escape.
- Top-Notch Service: Cleanliness.
- It Will Make You Feel Good!
This is more than a hotel; it's an experience. Book it. You won’t regret it. Now go make some memories!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Arte Plus by Inn Lux Kuala LumpurOkay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your grandma's itinerary. This is… well, this is my attempt at an Aloft Tulsa Downtown whirlwind, with all the glorious chaos that entails. Prepare for rambling, questionable decisions, and the distinct possibility of me getting lost in the lobby on the way to the elevator.
Aloft Tulsa Downtown: The (Probably Slightly Chaotic) Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Existential Dread (and Pizza)
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Event: Arrival! (Finally escaped the airport! My god, the airport. Let's just say, the security line and I had a moment.) I'm checking into the Aloft. Fingers crossed they remembered to give me a room on a higher floor. My fear of heights is matched only by my aversion to listening to the ice machine all night.
- Transport: Car (Rental car, pray for me and everyone else on the road)
- Notes: Okay, first impressions of the Aloft. It’s… sleek. Very… modern. Like, I'm pretty sure the furniture is judging my travel pants. Already fighting the urge to just order room service and sink into the abyss of hotel television.
- Emotional Reaction: Relief. A little bit of excitement (Tulsa! Woohoo!), and a hefty dose of "Did I remember to pack enough snacks?"
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Event: Unpacking (the bare essentials, let's be real) and Room Inspection. Gotta assess the situation. Is the window view depressing? Is the TV smart enough to connect to my Netflix? (Crucial life-or-death decisions, people.) Checking for creepy vibes – always vital.
- Notes: Found the snack stash! Crisis averted. Window view… decent. A smidge of the Tulsa skyline. Not terrible, not spectacular. The real test: the bed. This is where dreams are made (or, in my case, where I briefly consider just napping for the next 12 hours).
- Emotional Reaction: Mild satisfaction. Bed = good. View = could be worse. Overall mood: Optimistic, but cautiously so.
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
- Event: Pizza Recon Mission. Seriously, I need fuel. Google Maps is my new best friend. I'm on a mission to find the BEST pizza in Tulsa. (And yes, I'm already prepared to have a full-blown, passionate argument about the merits of thin crust vs. deep dish with a complete stranger). This is a quest of utmost importance.
- Transport: Rental Car – pray for me. If you see a speeding silver… never mind.
- Notes: I've got a list of pizza joints a mile long. Apparently, Tulsa takes its pizza seriously. I've got my eye on "Hideaway Pizza". I made sure to wear stretchy pants. This is a strategic move.
- Emotional Reaction: Hype. Pure, unadulterated pizza hype. The anticipation is killing me.
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Event: Pizza Devourment (and possible nap). I'm envisioning pizza, a cold drink, and sweet, sweet, quiet.
- Location: Hideaway Pizza (or whichever pizza palace I deem worthy).
- Notes: This is important: pizza selection is key. (Toppings, people! Toppings!) Extra cheese is non-negotiable. I plan on taking copious notes of the pizza. For research, of course.
- Emotion: Pure, unadulterated gluttony. I will probably be a pizza-smudged, semi-coherent human being at the end of it.
Time: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Event: Hotel Bar. (Whatever the Aloft's version of a bar is. Does it have fancy cocktails? Cheap beer? Does it judge me based on the quality of my pizza nap?) Let's see what kind of vibes their watering hole is putting out. I need a drink. Or perhaps some sort of miracle.
- Location: The Aloft Bar (or the closest respectable establishment).
- Notes: I might actually try and be social. Emphasis on "might". Mostly, I'll observe the locals. People watching is a crucial travel skill. And a good way to get ideas for my next pizza outing.
- Emotion: Cautious optimism. I'm hoping for a good drink, a comfortable atmosphere, and maybe… just maybe… a moment of genuine human connection. (Or at least a bartender who doesn't think I'm completely insane after my pizza encounter.)
Time: 10:00 PM - Bedtime (whenever that happens)
- Event: Unwinding, collapsing into bed, and possibly watching a show of something.
- Location: My Aloft Room.
- Notes: Definitely setting an alarm. I don't want to wake up with the regret of a missed sunrise.
- Emotion: Exhaustion. Contentment. And the lingering hope that tomorrow will be even slightly less mortifying than today.
Day 2: Route 66 and Other Adventures
Time: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
- Event: Wake up, shower, and breakfast. (Breakfast options are key. I'm not a “hold the salt and watch the carbs” type of traveler. I’m “bring on the bacon” type. My mood is directly correlated with the quality of the morning meal.
- Location: The Aloft restaurant, or some other place I've yet to discover.
- Notes: I need something that will soak up any remaining pizza grease from last night. (Oh man, I want some pizza right now!)
- Emotion: Hunger. And a general sense of “okay, let’s do this”.
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Event: Route 66 exploration! I’m planning to cruise along a stretch of the Mother Road. This is where the magic happens. I'll be looking for quirky roadside attractions, vintage diners, photo ops, and anything that screams "American nostalgia!" (I'm also pretty sure I’ll get lost, at least once. It’s part of the journey, right?)
- Transport: Rental Car (The trusty steed)
- Notes: This is crucial: I must find a place to buy a Route 66 t-shirt. Because I need it.
- Emotion: Excitement. A little bit of longing. To be on Route 66. Pure Americana.
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
- Event: Lunch at a classic diner. (If my Route 66 explorations lead me to one of course.) If my travels don't lead me to a diner, then my trusty travel companion, Google Maps, will provide. The perfect place for a burger, fries, and a milkshake.
- Location: Somewhere with red vinyl booths.
- Notes: See above.
- Emotion: Anticipation.
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
- Event: The Gathering Place. I've heard about this beautiful park, and I'm ready to see it. (I’ve also added a potential detour to the Philbrook Museum of Art. because I'm trying to broaden my experience, I swear.)
- Location: The Gathering Place / Philbrook Museum of Art (TBD!)
- Notes: Bring walking shoes and water. I need to bring my camera to take pictures.
- Emotion: Calm. Relaxation, hope.
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
- Event: Wind-down. I'm still in search of the perfect coffee shop for some caffeine and pastries. I'll be writing notes in my journal, reflecting on the day.
- Location: Coffee Shop.
- Notes: Need caffeine. Need pastries.
- Emotion: Contentedness.
Time: 6:00 PM - Bedtime
- Event: Dinner. (I haven't decided yet!)
- Location: TBD.
- Notes: Looking forward to trying out some new restaurants!
- Emotion: Hunger!
Day 3: Departure (AKA: The Big Goodbye)
Time: 9:00 AM
- Event: Breakfast.
- Location: Aloft. (Maybe?)
- Notes: This is the last real meal.
- Emotion: Sadness
Time: 10:00
Aloft Tulsa Downtown: You HAVE Questions? I Have (Mostly) Answers!
Okay, Okay, So... Are Those Views REALLY as Good as Everyone Says?
Look, I'm a hard sell when it comes to "best views ever." I've been to the Eiffel Tower, the Empire State Building... blah, blah, blah. But at Aloft Tulsa Downtown? Seriously? YES. They are. I mean, sitting in my room, legs up, nursing a perfectly made margarita, watching the sunset paint the city in all these fiery hues? It actually made me tear up a little. Don’t judge! I was tired. The city sprawls out below you, a gorgeous mess of brick buildings and twinkling lights. It's like Tulsa decided to put on its best show just for you. The problem? It’s almost TOO good. Kept me glued to the window for, like, an hour longer than I should have been getting some shut-eye. Rookie mistake.
TL;DR: Yeah. The views are probably worth the price of admission alone. Pack some tissues – you might get a little misty-eyed.
Is the Pool Really... Cool? (Pun Intended!)
Alright, the pool. Okay, so it's not some Olympic-sized, resort-style situation. It's... smaller. But! It's on the rooftop with that same glorious view! And honestly? It's perfect for a quick dip to shake off the Oklahoma heat. I went during a thunderstorm once (don’t ask). The mix of rain, the city lights, and the slightly panicked look on my own face? Memorable. It's a good place to unwind, pretend you’re not on a budget, and judge everyone else’s swimwear (kidding… mostly). The only downside? It's popular. Get your towel down early, people!
Important note: I'd say yes to the rooftop pool, just make sure you get there before the crowds or you are going to be disappointed.
The Food and Drink Situation: Spill the Tea (or Vodka Soda)!
Oh, the W XYZ bar! Okay, here’s the dirt. The cocktails are actually pretty decent (I'm a sucker for a well-made Old Fashioned). The music is… well, let's just say they play what's popular right now, and it can get a little loud. But the bartenders? Wonderful! They're friendly, they know their drinks, and they'll actually listen when you're going through a particularly rough travel day. The food? Meh. The snacks are exactly what you expect: tasty, but probably not life-altering. Think sliders, fries, and all things deliciously bad for you. Perfect for soaking up… you know.
What About the Rooms? Are They Actually Stylish (or Just Pretending)?
Okay, so the Aloft aesthetic is definitely "modern chic." Think clean lines, bright colors, and a general feeling of "I paid for this." The rooms themselves are well-designed, the beds are comfy (I passed out the second my head hit the pillow after one particularly grueling day of exploring the city), and the bathrooms are surprisingly spacious. I appreciated the little extras, like the Malin + Goetz toiletries (fancy!). My biggest tiny gripe? The lighting. It can be a bit... dim. I felt like I needed a flashlight to find my way around sometimes. But overall? Totally stylish. I could live there… if I won the lottery.
Side Note: I also loved the big windows, which is a MUST with those views. You wanna see the city from every possible angle!
Is the Location Convenient? (Because, Let's Be Real, Tulsa's Sprawling!)
YES! Downtown Tulsa is where it's at, especially if you like things like museums, hip restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife (which, let's be real, most of us do). Aloft's right in the thick of it. You can walk to a bunch of cool places. I even strolled (okay, maybe it was more of a shuffle) to a coffee shop one morning, still half-asleep, and it was glorious. No need to drive everywhere, which is a huge bonus when you're sampling cocktails at the W XYZ bar. Plus, it's close to the BOK Center if you're catching a show or event. Basically, you're in the middle of the action. It made my exploration so much easier, which is a huge win.
Parking: The Bane of Every Traveler's Existence. Enlighten Me!
Okay, parking. It’s not *terrible*. There's valet parking, of course, which is convenient, but… expensive. There are also nearby parking garages. My advice? Factor the parking cost into your budget. (I forgot to do that the first time and I’m still recovering). Walk around, see the options, and pick the one that best suits your wallet. It's Downtown, so street parking is a gamble. Seriously, download a parking app to know the rules, I got a ticket once! A very sad, very expensive memory.
Okay, So... Is There *Anything* Bad About This Place? (Be Honest!)
Alright, deep breaths. The air conditioning in my room was a bit… aggressive. I had to keep adjusting the thermostat. And, it’s downtown. Sometimes, late at night, you might hear some city noises (sirens, mostly). If you're a light sleeper, bring earplugs. Also, the prices are a little on the higher side (but honestly, the views alone...). And let’s be real, the gym is small. REALLY small. I tried to work out, and I about poked a hole in my own eye. But on the whole? These are minor gripes. I would absolutely go back (and probably will, soon).
Final Verdict? Lay it on me!
Look, I'm not one for hyperbole. But Aloft Tulsa Downtown? It's a solid choice. The views are worth the trip alone. The location is perfect. The staff are friendly. Yes, there are a few minor downsides. But the good definitely outweighs the bad. Book it. Seriously. You won't regret it. Just… try to get a room on a higher floor. And pack tissues. And maybe earplugs. And don't underestimate the power of a good margarita on a rooftop. You might just fall in love with Tulsa.