Stately Gilded Age Mansion with Manicured Grounds
In the early 1920s, Tulsa was in the midst of its second oil boom, and the city—like much of the country—was prospering. Prominent Tulsa citizen Dr. Samuel Kennedy struck it rich on the oil fields northwest of the city. He built himself a Federal-style estate that captures the spirit of those affluent times with soaring ceilings, a grand staircase, and a pair of second-floor terraces that overlook carefully manicured lawns. Today, innkeepers Francoise and Darell Christopher maintain the Kennedy Mansion Bed and Breakfast and its sprawling grounds, set in the country on the edge of downtown Tulsa.
The inn features a handful of guest rooms, and each possesses an individual character. In the mint-colored Presidential suite, nine picture windows face downtown Tulsa. As the master bedroom of the house, the Presidential suite is equipped with a private library, which features an entire section on handlebar-mustache maintenance. The Country Club suite spills over onto two outdoor terraces, with one that overlooks the in-ground pool and gazebo and another that faces west for sunset views. Those who opt for the couples massage can enjoy a 60-minute, in-room treatment administered by a skilled massage therapist.
In the morning, Francoise employs her French culinary expertise to prepare an à la carte gourmet breakfast, which you order at check in. Breakfast entrees include crepes, omelets, quiche lorraine, and french toast. In the manicured backyard, an oval-shaped, in-ground pool welcomes swimmers.
Tulsa: Renowned Art-Deco Architecture and World-Class Art Museums
The oil booms of the early 20th century created an influx of wealth in Tulsa, and the downtown skyline reflects that prosperity. The city is peppered with art-deco-style buildings, which emulate the French-born architecture style that swept the nation in the 1920s.
Aside from the urban infrastructure, Tulsa is a green city with a prime location along the banks of the Arkansas River. Twenty-six miles of paved, riverfront trails wind through River Parks past playgrounds, sculptures, and fountains.
Near the hotel, the Brady Arts District is home to Cain's Ballroom, Tulsa's legendary dance-hall-turned-music-venue. Cain's rose to fame as the favored spot of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, who pioneered the musical genre of western swing in the late 1930s.
Nearby, a touch of the cowboy era lingers at the Gilcrease Museum, which is lined with paintings by Frederic Remington depicting the Wild West. Tucked in the Osage hills, the museum also strives to preserve Native American art and artifacts.