Earlier this year, securing a reservation at the Pioneer Woman Boarding House in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, felt like hitting the jackpot. For anyone familiar with this sought-after destination, you understand that landing a room here is a truly special occasion.
Checking In to Rustic Charm
Our anticipation was high as we packed our bags for the short drive to Pawhuska, ready to immerse ourselves in the Pioneer Woman experience. Stepping into the lobby of The Boarding House was like entering a warm embrace. The décor was everything we had imagined: rustic, inviting, and genuinely hospitable. Check-in was seamless, accompanied by thoughtful touches that immediately set the tone for our stay. We were presented with a coffee order form for the next morning and offered assistance with our luggage – a gesture that felt both personal and attentive. Instead of a generic plastic key card, we received an actual key, complete with an embossed leather keychain, granting us access to the coveted Tack Room suite.
Rustic lobby of Pioneer Woman Boarding House in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, welcoming guests for check-in.
Ascending the two flights of stairs to our room, we paused to admire an original mural adorning the hallway wall. This piece of history, a relic from the building’s past as a biscuit factory, was even more captivating in person than described in The Pioneer Woman’s blog. It was a charming reminder of the building’s rich heritage.
Embossed leather keychain with a real key to the Tack Room suite at Pioneer Woman Boarding House, Pawhuska.
Original mural in the hallway of Pioneer Woman Boarding House, a remnant from its biscuit factory past.
The Luxurious Tack Room Suite
Entering the Tack Room suite, the delightful surprises continued. Immediately to our left was a convenient half bathroom, a prelude to the realization that our suite boasted TWO bathrooms – a true luxury. A short hallway opened into a spacious living area, furnished with a comfortable couch, armchairs, and a large television. The furniture, instantly recognizable as Restoration Hardware, exuded a sense of understated elegance and familiarity. Beyond the living area, the inviting bed beckoned, creating an atmosphere akin to visiting the home of a friend with impeccable taste.
This was far from a typical hotel room. The bathroom, in particular, felt like a private spa. Stocked with generously sized, fluffy white towels, it catered to every imaginable need. Plush robes, a curling iron, a dual-entry walk-through shower, and a stunning bathtub promised relaxation and pampering. A playful touch – a cowboy rubber ducky perched by the tub – added a whimsical element to the luxurious setting.
Rustic lobby of Pioneer Woman Boarding House in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, welcoming guests for check-in.
Luxurious bathtub in the Tack Room suite bathroom at Pioneer Woman Boarding House, complete with white fluffy towels and a cowboy rubber ducky.
Boarding House Amenities and Happy Hour
Each evening, The Boarding House hosts a happy hour exclusively for guests. Held on a charming balcony overlooking downtown Pawhuska, it offered complimentary wine, beer, and a selection of simple snacks. It was a wonderful introduction to the town and a chance to unwind before further exploring. While we only stayed briefly, eager to fully enjoy the Tack Room, the happy hour provided a taste of the Boarding House’s convivial atmosphere.
Happy hour on the balcony of Pioneer Woman Boarding House overlooking downtown Pawhuska, Oklahoma, offering wine and snacks.
In-Room Dining from The Mercantile
Having unpacked our overnight essentials, our thoughts turned to dinner. A significant perk of staying at The Boarding House is the priority access to reservations at The Mercantile, Ree Drummond’s renowned restaurant just a short walk away. However, the allure of our exquisite suite was too strong to resist, and we opted for room service instead.
My choice was the ribeye steak accompanied by green beans and a twice-baked potato, while my companion selected the chicken parmesan. Both entrees included fresh side salads, and we shared a slice of pecan pie for dessert. The Merc is a personal favorite, so we knew the meal would be exceptional. As expected, dinner was delightful. Shortly after we finished, a gentle knock announced the turndown service, complete with a warm chocolate chip cookie – a sweet and thoughtful end to the evening, showcasing the impeccable service.
Delicious room service dinner from The Mercantile at Pioneer Woman Boarding House, featuring ribeye steak and chicken parmesan.
Turn down service at Pioneer Woman Boarding House with a warm chocolate chip cookie, a delightful evening treat.
After a restful night, the prospect of leaving was already looming. To prolong our Boarding House bliss, we again chose the indulgence of room service, this time for breakfast. I ordered the Farmer’s Breakfast, while my companion enjoyed a breakfast sandwich. Being able to savor The Merc’s exceptional breakfast in the comfort of our suite was the perfect finale to our stay.
Sumptuous breakfast in bed at Pioneer Woman Boarding House, featuring Farmer's Breakfast and a breakfast sandwich from The Mercantile.
Final Verdict: A Pawhuska Getaway to Remember
Upon departure, we both agreed that our stay at the Pioneer Woman Boarding House was arguably the best hotel experience we had ever encountered. The Tack Room suite was not only spacious and luxurious but also imbued with thoughtful details. The service was unparalleled, exceeding every expectation. While the drive home from Pawhuska wasn’t filled with actual tears, there was a genuine sense of reluctance to leave. It’s safe to say, this Pioneer Woman Boarding House staycation was a resounding success, leaving us eager to return.
