The Hangar Hotel

Walking into the lobby of the Hanger Hotel with bags in each hand, I scanned the room for the front desk. The soft light from high above gave the room a timeless glow. The sounds of a big band orchestra played quietly in the background. The walls were decorated with 1940’s era airplane memorabilia. Against the far wall, an antique console radio reigned mightily as some old luggage laid nearby forgotten in time. I expected to see Humphrey Bogart or Lauren Bacall cross the balcony above on their way to a secret encounter. 

As my eyes found the front desk, I spied some old phone operator’s equipment lying unused, waiting to connect a guest with the past. Approaching the front desk, Suzanne and I watched as a smiling, enthusiastic lady emerged from the back to help us check in. We had entered the “Twilight Zone”; no, I mean “The Hanger Hotel”! Check in was swift and painless.

With key in hand, we walked upstairs to check out our room. After a full day of travel and a trip into Llano, the thought of resting for a bit sounded good. The room was very comfortable and furnished in the same nostalgic style as the lobby complete with period style furniture and airplane memorabilia. Our view of a 1946 North American Navion airplane, an old 1926 truck, and a nostalgic airplane billboard complimented the ambiance of the hotel’s interior.  In the background, the Airport Diner beckoned all comers with its own 50’s looks. Should we rest or go check out the diner and those other collectibles outside? Flipping a mental coin, I opted to go outside.

Suzanne and I trekked on back downstairs and popped outside to a bright sun recovering from a soft, warm shower. With small puddles of water to dodge and Texas humidity to bear, we headed toward the diner. The diner looked the part of a 50’s drug store with a long chrome trimmed counter and swivel chairs. The airplane motif was on target with its guest. The booths were trimmed with chrome and sparklingly clean. Unfortunately, we chose the wrong time to come by. It was closed. No problem, out behind it was an old Douglas C41 airplane to scope out and an old Cadillac that made a great photo opportunity. There were more than enough antiques and memorabilia to offer a diversion in an otherwise quiet afternoon.

As the sun started its slide in the western sky, I remembered the reservationist letting us know that Thursday Happy Hour was Martini Night. Neither one of us had ever had a martini, so this was as good an opportunity as any to try one. Beats walking around in the hot summer sun I surmised. I explained to Suzanne my reason to retreat to the air conditioned bar referred to as the Officers Club. She agreed with delight! Off to the Officer’s Club we went.

The Officer’s club was quaint and cool. The airplane motif was prevalent. Snacks were available near the entrance to entice us to stay for awhile. We found a small table with a great view of the bar and settled in for some people watching while enjoying our drinks and conversation. The bartender was friendly and offered free advice on martinis as I explained my novice status. A “Dirty Martini” was the drink of choice. Like James Bond in a spy movie, I felt suave and sophisticated; if only in my mind. That’s the fun part! That’s what vacations are supposed to do. Take you away from your daily work or worries and create a dream world where fun is king. 

Staying at The Hanger Hotel was our little “Fantasy Island” episode. We had a great time and met some nice people. The next morning we woke up refreshed and eager to begin another day as we travel Texas Thru My Back Door!