Houston Opera Getaway - The Lancaster Hotel
“The Lancaster has been quietly anchoring Houston’s theater district since 1926, but as soon as you step into the lobby and “quiet” isn’t quite the word for it.”
A Murano-glass chandelier the color of warm honey. A mustard velvet sofa I would have stolen if it weren’t four times my size. Abstract paintings I stood under for too long, the way you do in a museum when you’re not sure why a painting won’t let you leave. Brass details everywhere. Marble underfoot. The kind of hotel lobby that converses with you. Oh, and the staff? So helpful! Unprecedented service as they helped me upstairs with my bags to settle in. I came for the opera. Stayed for everything else.
Three blocks to the Wortham Center. A nightcap downstairs after the curtain, where I’d enjoy a cup of decaf espresso. Linen sheets and a slow Houston morning the next day, as I enjoyed a full spread of freshly baked pastries, the freshest yogurt and fruit and hot eggs! The city was already moving while I sat on the mezzanine, journaling and savoring the last few minutes of my stay.
There’s a particular romance to a place that has been here for almost a century and still feels alive in the present — not preserved, not nostalgic, just confidently and positioned with dignity. I think that’s what I keep returning to in the hotels I love most: the ones that aren’t trying to be anything except the most authentic version of themselves.
After settling in, I headed for a walk around the neighborhood. Alley Theatre and the Houston Symphony sit across the street from the hotel. There’s also the Lynn Wyatt Square for the Performing Arts park punctuated with yellow sculptures installations so you can view as you walk. Another great park is Midtown Square and has mosaic benches with well kept grounds.
I changed from my soft Banana Repulic camel colored dress and Sarah Flint leopard pumps into a sparkling champagne sequin gown from Badgley Mischka. The gown was awarded the name Oscar Winner and is one of the most beautiful pieces I’ve borrowed from Rent the Runway. The soft drape on the back gave it a regal feel. I paired it with a structured pearl Verafied handbag, baroque pearl drop earrings, and soft suede Chloe pumps in blush since I’d be walking for a few blocks. Both my Sarah Flint pumps and Chloe block heels provide an elevated look without sacrificing comfort.
I dined at the Par du Brasserie, which boasts of traditional French cuisine with an industrial feel. I have to say, it was incredible! Soft warm bread and European butter, sparkling water, and a lobster bisque that I devoured. After leaving the restaurant, I headed to the Wortham Center for tickets to Silent Night.
The lobby of the venue is majestic with large archways and an architectural staircase that spans several floors. It’s open and breathtaking. I recommend arriving early so you can browse and grab a cup of espresso. They also have a delicious dessert spread during intermission. As I left the show I felt like I was reinvigorated after a long season of life challenges.
The entire weekend was cultured, curated and exactly what I needed to create inspiration that would carry me through the next few months as I navigated a separation and divorce. For the woman looking to return to herself, give yourself permission for a weekend of art, opera and reflection you’ll remember for years.
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