The Shamrock Court Motel in Sullivan, Missouri. It can be yours for $125,000. Lots of possibilities. Actually, now you're too late. Missouri's Roamin' Rich bought it.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Tulsa's Queen Hotel, Back Again and Better

Route 66 fans have to be happy that the 1925 Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mayo Hotel has been saved from a date with the demolition team and is now open again. The 18 story hotel closed in 1981.

In the 1980s, a really bad restoration effort stripped the building of much of its remaining splendor. In 2001, the Snyder family bought it for $250,000 and $40 million has been spent bringing it back to its former glory. The city even kicked in $4.9 million in its efforts to revitalize downtown.

Tulsa began a rapid rise in stature starting in 1901 when oil was discovered in the Red Fork area, bringing riches and making millionaires out of many. The Mayo housed the rich, powerful and famous in its 600 rooms when it opened.

Today, you can get a room there or, even live full time in it as the seven upper floors are being turned into apartment lofts.

Of course, downtown Tulsa is one big collection of art deco-style buildings, my favorite. I'm not sure, but I think when I was there for the 2003 Route 66 Festival, they were using the lobby for weddings and events.

A Definite Stop the Next Visit, But I Have the Feeling I Wouldn't Care to Spend the Dough to Stay There. --RoadDog

No comments: