DALLAS and MCLEAN, Va. – The Statler, an iconic downtown Dallas hotel, opens today as part of the exclusive Curio Collection by Hilton, one of Hilton's 14 market-leading brands, following a $255 million redevelopment. Centrally located, The Statler symbolizes the heart and soul of Dallas and was hand-picked to join the collection of one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts that are integral parts of the destinations they call home.

Originally opened in 1956 as one of Conrad Hilton's first convention properties, The Statler is heralded as a pioneer hotel, bringing many firsts – such as elevator music – to the industry. Credited with establishing Dallas as an epicenter for business and entertainment, The Statler embodies the iconic downtown Dallas experience.

"Today is a special day for Curio Collection as we welcome back a remarkable hotel and industry forerunner to Hilton and the great city of Dallas," said Mark Nogal, global head, Curio Collection by Hilton. "We look forward to elevating The Statler's legacy as it adds 159 magnificent guest rooms to our growing collection, to offer travelers and locals alike another magnificent, independent hotel to discover that exudes authenticity."

More than 60 years later, the historic property gains new life as owner and developer Centurion American Development Group reenergizes and reopens the 159 guest room hotel as The Statler, Curio Collection by Hilton. The 19-story hotel and mixed-use development features 219 residences, restaurants, nightlife, specialty retail outlets, meeting space and a large-scale event venue. Designed by Merriman Anderson/Architects, The Statler boasts a timeless, mid-century design with retro-forward finishes throughout the guest rooms and public spaces.

"We are honored to reopen the doors of The Statler. Known as the first modern American hotel, The Statler is a one-of-a-kind property encompassing endless history and culture," said Mehrdad Moayedi, president and CEO of Centurion American Development Group. "Our vision in restoring The Statler to its original glory and beyond was to create the ideal place to live, work and play for locals, and the ultimate Dallas destination for visitors to our city."

Additional hotel features and amenities will debut following the hotel's soft opening, including:

DINING The Statler will host five unique food and beverage outlets operated by Dallas-based Epic F&B and led by local chef Graham Dodds. Overeasy, an upscale diner serving artisanal fare and gourmet coffee, and Bourbon & Banter, an underground cocktail lounge with an extensive bourbon and whiskey library, will soon be open to the public.

Fine China, a full-service Pan-Asian restaurant and cocktail bar; Scout, a 12,000-square-foot social space featuring an American menu; and Waterproof, a poolside roof deck bar and lounge, are slated to open later this year.

MEETINGS & EVENTS With 33,000 square feet of innovative meeting and event space, including entertainment suites and an outdoor Garden Court, The Statler provides an ideal setting for events of all sizes. Ten meetings rooms and a 13,154-square-foot Grand Ballroom provide ample space for a multitude of events, from corporate meetings and conferences to weddings and high-profile social galas, including A-list concerts.

AMENITIES The Statler offers leisure opportunities including a rooftop pool and lounge opening later this year, a multi-use fitness center, bowling and games. Its central downtown location provides convenient access to Dallas dining, nightlife, shopping and cultural destinations. The hotel overlooks Main Street Gardens, a 1.75-acre public park, and is a short walk from attractions including the Dallas Farmers Market and the historic Neiman Marcus flagship store.

The Statler is managed by Dallas-based Aimbridge Hospitality, the nation's largest independent hotel management company. The Statler, Curio Collection by Hilton is located at 1914 Commerce Street, Dallas, Texas 75201.

For more information or to make a reservation, travelers may visit www.thestatlerdallas.com or call 214-459-3930.