CELEBRATING A MILESTONE
What began as a bold vision inspired by Western heritage has become one of the most celebrated destinations in the Fort Worth Stockyards — and the world. Explore the moments that have shaped our story so far & discover the exciting happenings unfolding all year long.
2014
A Trailblazing Partnership
Long before the first plans were drawn, there was a promise.
Holt Hickman’s connection to the Fort Worth Stockyards began alongside his father and became a defining part of his life’s work. He devoted himself to preserving its legacy by reviving Billy Bob’s Texas, establishing the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, safeguarding historic collections, and supporting the Fort Worth Herd, ensuring the character and spirit of the Stockyards would continue to be felt and remembered for generations.
That vision found strength in partnership with Ed Roski Jr. Stockyards Heritage Development Co. was formed in 2014, bringing together shared values and long-term commitment. It marked the beginning of a new chapter shaped by preservation, investment, and respect for what came before.
2018
From Dust to Destination
An inspiring shared vision soon gave way to blueprints.
On land that was once home to an outdoor rodeo arena, Hotel Drover and 97 West Kitchen & Bar would soon rise as a modern expression of the West — anchored in authenticity, designed with intention, and deeply connected to heritage.
At the same time, Stockyards Heritage Development Co. led the restoration and adaptive reuse of the neighboring Horse and Mule Barns. The historic, 100-year-old structures would be transformed into Mule Alley.
2021
Grand Opening
Then, the vision became reality.
On March 25, 2021, Hotel Drover and 97 West Kitchen & Bar debuted with a grand celebration. Beneath the crystal chandeliers of The Barn, partners, city leaders, and longtime champions of the Fort Worth Stockyards gathered to mark the realization of a vision shaped over decades of commitment and careful stewardship.
Recognized by Forbes, Travel + Leisure, and other leading outlets as one of the world’s most anticipated hotel openings, the debut drew widespread attention and signaled the beginning of a renaissance in the Fort Worth Stockyards.
2021
Traditions Begin
Within months of opening, traditions were set in motion.
Easter in The Backyard, The Backyard Unplugged, Legendary Tree Lighting, and 12 Days of Drover defined the seasons as special legacy experiences and keep guests returning year after year.
At 97 West Kitchen & Bar, seasonal dining experiences complement these celebrations — often selling out and continuing as traditions in their own right.
Today, the holiday season is the resort’s most anticipated time of year featuring a 30-foot Christmas tree crowned with a glittering cowboy hat, evenings with Cowboy Santa and live reindeer, and awe-inspiring décor.
2022
A Defining Honor
Momentum continued to build and well-earned recognition soon followed.
Just one year after opening, Hotel Drover was named the #1 Best Hotel in Dallas-Fort Worth in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.
The distinction reflected the strength of the resort’s debut, the excellence of its team, and an unwavering commitment to legendary hospitality. It marked the first of many accolades to come.
2022
A Spotlight on the West
By now, the world was captivated by the West more than ever before.
Yellowstone and 1883 surged in popularity, becoming two of television’s most-watched shows. New portrayals of Western life, along with filming in iconic Fort Worth settings, cast a global spotlight on the Fort Worth Stockyards and deepened its appeal as a sought-after destination.
Visitors began traveling from near and far to experience the places, lifestyle, history, and spirit of adventure that they saw on screen.
Hotel Drover hosted the Season 5 premiere of Yellowstone , welcoming a star-studded crowd and underscoring its role as both a cinematic backdrop and a defining destination of the modern West.
2023
KEEPSAKES TO CARRY ON
As more and more guests began to experience Hotel Drover, the connection began to extend far beyond the stay. A stay at Hotel Drover is meant to be remembered long after departure — and carried with you.
In 2023, new tangible expressions of the resort’s Western spirit were introduced, offering meaningful ways to hold onto those moments.
The Firestarter Candle captures the resort’s one-of-a-kind signature scent, refined over years and instantly recognizable to those who know it.
The Mark Branding Experience invites guests to create something of their own, using iron and fire to brand premium leather luggage tags in a tradition well-known in the West.
The Backyard Unplugged, a lively summertime live music series, expanded to feature themed nights and local artisan pop-ups, where music, makers, and community come together under the stars.
2023
Legendary Hospitality
Behind every lasting memory is the team that makes it possible.
Hotel Drover and 97 West Kitchen & Bar proudly earned the Great Place to Work® Certification for the first time, a recognition that reflects the heart behind the legendary hospitality. Built on genuine care, team pride, and a culture that champions growth and recognition, this achievement marked the beginning of a standard now carried forward year after year.
Above all, it is a celebration of the team members who define the experience through their passion and commitment.
2024
GUIDED BY THE VALUES OF THE WEST
A strong culture creates impact that reaches far beyond the resort.
Throughout the year, moments that mattered were met with purpose. From welcoming the U.S. Navy Blue Angels during their time in Fort Worth to supporting ranchers through the 6666 Smokehouse Creek & Windy Deuce Fire Relief Benefit, Hotel Drover showed up in meaningful ways.
Whether honoring hometown heroes, supporting Texas ranching families, or mobilizing resources in times of need, the resort continues to reflect the generosity, resilience, and enduring spirit of the West.
2025
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
That same commitment continued to grow, taking hold in greater ways in the community.
At Hotel Drover and 97 West Kitchen & Bar, showing up for others is a responsibility reflected in each day. From Earth Day clean-ups to flood relief efforts and support of the Fort Worth Herd, stewardship remains an ongoing commitment.
The resort proudly partners with Manuel Jara Elementary through school supply drives and meaningful engagement that support local students and families. It has also become a tradition to honor a deserving family during the annual Legendary Tree Lighting.
Here, community is a commitment woven into who we are.
2025
A Banner Year
That commitment, held to a higher purpose and a respect for others, carried forward into a year of remarkable achievement.
Performance reached new heights, reflecting excellence across every corner of the operation. A second MICHELIN Key and a third #1 ranking from Travel + Leisure led the way.
97 West Kitchen & Bar earned top honors from Kayak and OpenTable, while Great Place to Work® Certification was achieved yet again. #1 rankings in Cleanliness, Maintenance & Upkeep, and Food Quality reflected a commitment to consistency and care.
Multiple Best of Fort Worth wins capped the year, showcasing a team operating at its very best.
2026
Five Legendary Years
And now, the celebration of a milestone.
This year marks five years of Hotel Drover and 97 West Kitchen & Bar in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards.
What began as a bold vision has transformed the district, increasing annual visitation from 3 million to more than 10 million following the arrival of Hotel Drover, 97 West Kitchen & Bar, and Mule Alley.
Today, Hotel Drover and 97 West Kitchen & Bar stand among the most acclaimed destinations in the Stockyards, defined by rustic-luxe design, culinary excellence, and legendary hospitality.
Throughout the year, thoughtful moments will unfold, including resort enhancements, a special anniversary offer, and commemorative collaborations that honor the story so far while looking ahead. Guests are also invited to share the memories that have made their time at the resort unforgettable, with one story selected to inspire a commemorative film and a return stay.
