The Ammortal Chamber Promises a Full Mind-Body Transformation, No Humans in Sight
Hate to be touched? I've got just the thing for you.
It's called the Ammortal Chamber, and it's the latest addition to the genre of wellness treatments that require minimal, if any, human interaction. These are part of a growing divide between regimens administered by people who prod, probe and palpate our bodies, and the high-tech 'modalities' that rely solely on machines. With the former, it's human touch that has the healing power; the latter relies on light and sound therapy, robot massage and more to help you reach new heights of beauty and health. As the global wellness tourism market is projected to hit $9 trillion by 2028, we'll surely see more entries in this ongoing proliferation.
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Stay at The Crazy Water Hotel for history, good eats, and local culture. Take a dip at the Crazy Water Bath House & Spa to soak in the town's healing waters. Spend time at Clark Gardens, where you can immerse in nature and escape the daily grind. Dine at Second Bar + Kitchen, where James Beard-nominated chef David Bull serves up seasonal American dishes. Shop at the Famous Mineral Water Company, where you can sample the varieties of Crazy Water, make your own blend, and buy all the merch you need from this town. An hour west of Fort Worth, Mineral Wells, Texas, is a small town steeped in wellness history that all started with, what else, a mineral well. It began in 1877, when James Alvis Lynch moved his family and livestock from Denison, Texas, near the Texas-Oklahoma border, out west in search of a drier climate that would offer relief from malaria. While traveling, the family learned of Comanche attacks further west and decided to settle where they were in Palo Pinto County. The Lynch family dug a well on their property and discovered the water had a funny taste. After testing it on their cattle with no side effects, they began drinking the water themselves, and soon, James and his wife, Armanda, who both suffered from rheumatism, started feeling better. Word spread like wildfire, and people started coming from near and far to drink the water, some even drilling their own wells. After the city was laid out, lots of wells were drilled, and it's said the mineral waters here have a higher concentration of lithium, which helps treat a range of mental and mood disorders. Tourists from around the world flocked to Mineral Wells in the early 20th century to experience these healing waters. Bathhouses were built for healing soaks, and drinking pavilions were abundant. By 1920, the town had 400 mineral wells and was touted as the 'South's greatest health resort.' Railroads brought in droves of travelers looking for a cure, and also helped distribute mineral water outside of the area. Hotels and resorts flourished, including The Baker Hotel and Spa, the 'Grand Lady' of Mineral Wells that opened in 1929 as a glamorous spot for Hollywood icons such as Judy Garland, Clark Gable, and Lawrence Welk. But with a boom, there's always a bust. As the FDA began to monitor medical advertising claims and modern medicine advanced, interest in natural healing waned. By the 1940s, most of the mineral water companies closed, and Mineral Wells went through a sleepy period. The beloved Baker Hotel shuttered in the '70s, and the town experienced a downturn. Growing up in nearby Weatherford in the '90s and early aughts, Mineral Wells was decidedly not cool . We would visit to shop at the Lee denim outlet for back-to-school clothing, and I'd always stare at the decaying Baker Hotel. Dilapidated buildings were plentiful around town, and a melancholy feeling always hung in the air. The only 'cool' thing I loved about going there as a kid was grabbing a burger at Woody's, a biker bar on U.S. 180 that smelled like cigarette smoke and always had the best '90s country tunes on the jukebox. The smell was nostalgic for a '90s kid, the bangers-only jukebox fed my small-town country soul, and the bikers made me feel cool. (Confession: I still feel cool drinking a yellow belly when I'm there and bikers roll up for a burger.) But rebirth was always on its way. In 2019, a group of local investors banded together to restore the historic Crazy Water Hotel, which originally opened in 1912 during the town's heyday. The property was restored and reopened in 2021. The opening ushered in new shopping and dining, and that same year, The Baker Hotel officially began restorations as well. Slowly but surely, Mineral Wells is seeing a resurgence as locals rally together to revitalize historic properties and honor its wellness theme. Wellness retreats and rooftop yoga are common occurrences nowadays. Stop into town and you'll feel the slower pace of life and small-town charm coupled with that buzzy aura of rebirth and opportunity. Here, you'll realize there really is just something in the water. A water bottle statue in Mineral Wells, Texas. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Aside from all of the revitalization efforts taking place across town, Mineral Wells became the official Wellness Capital of Texas in June 2023 by the state legislature, due to its storied waters and wellness focus. Bathhouses and drinking pavilions were once found all over town, and today, visitors can still take a dip in the mineral-rich waters or fill up a jug of it to take home. Mineral Wells is also surrounded by nature, with Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway nearby and another state park, Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, in the works. Lakes, the Brazos River, hiking and biking trails, and outdoor pursuits are numerous, making it easy to tap into wellness in Mineral Wells. The living room of a guest suite at The Crazy Water Hotel. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Crazy Water Hotel dates back to 1913, when it was built to meet the needs for all those visiting Mineral Wells to drink from its mineral-rich wells. At the time of the hotel's opening, the town had already dug three wells that catered to water drinkers, with one at the site of the hotel. In 1885, a wooden pavilion was built over the well, and tourists flocking in via railroad came to experience its healing water. In 1900, a larger pavilion was created next to the first one, where visitors were entertained by vaudeville acts, silent films, and orchestras. A brick pavilion replaced the frame one, but it still wasn't enough to hold the crowds, which is why The Crazy Water Hotel was built. Originally constructed with 110 rooms, the five-story property succumbed to a fire and was rebuilt into a seven-story hotel with 250 rooms. A ballroom and patio gave visitors a view of town and the surrounding Palo Pinto Mountains, and in the basement, guests enjoyed the bathhouse, bowling lanes, and more. The hotel's drinking pavilion was advertised as the largest in the world, where visitors could imbibe in the highly sought-after mineral water. The hotel began to wane in the mid-20th century as people began to turn to modern medicine to treat ailments instead of mineral water, and in 1961, the property closed. It was turned into an interim hospital while the county hospital was being built, and as a retirement home, then was permanently closed in 2010 and sat vacant for nearly 11 years. In 2019, local investors joined forces to bring The Crazy Water Hotel back to life, and after extensive renovations, it reopened in 2021. Today, rooms and suites have been enlarged and remodeled and offer modern amenities and downtown views. Some suites offer soaking tubs and full kitchens, plus living rooms and sitting areas. Shops occupy the first floor, as does the Crazy Water Coffee and Water Bar, where the town's storied waters are used in lattes, teas, and sodas. The hotel's restaurant, Second Bar + Kitchen, is also on the first floor, as is Rickhouse Brewing. Slated for a June 2026 opening is the Spa at The Crazy Water Hotel. It will occupy the basement level, where the bathhouse originally was more than 100 years ago, and the town's mineral waters will be incorporated into towel massages, bath soaks, facials, and oxygen treatments. Occupying a restored home in downtown, Magpie Inn is an adults-only bed-and-breakfast with five guest rooms, each with its own bathroom and charming, cottage-like decor. Each room sleeps two guests, with one able to fit four guests. The B&B is within walking distance to downtown dining and shopping, and the staff here can help coordinate day trips and area excursions. The best part? The owner is a chef and she prepares farm-to-table breakfasts for guests every morning. The seasonal menu includes brunch boards and banana split parfaits, and guest favorites have included Belgian waffles with hot honey chicken bites, blueberry-peach danishes with chef-made vanilla bean icing, and pancetta and gruyere cheese egg soufflés. Of course, there is mineral water on tap for drinking. A private room at the Crazy Water Bath House & Spa. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure What began as a private garden in 1972 eventually grew into 143 acres of gorgeous landscapes. At Clark Gardens, visitors can walk underneath tree canopies and among flora and fauna of all kinds. 'This is my favorite botanical park in the state,' says Carol Elder, owner of the Crazy Water Bottling Company and Famous Mineral Water Company and a Mineral Wells native. 'It delights in every season with its vibrant colors, beautiful peacocks, and lush, native Texas plants.' Get some exercise by walking the Historic Tree Trail, one of the largest in the U.S., to see 86 historic trees, including one from Elvis Presley's Graceland home, some from the Berkeley Plantation in Virginia, a weeping willow, and sycamores. Clark Gardens is a nationally recognized iris garden, with about 4,000 different iris varieties to see each April. In addition, seasons bring daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, water lilies, roses, holly berries, and so much more. Don't miss black and white swans waddling about, peacocks, blue herons, great egrets, and butterflies as they migrate through. Self-guided and group tours are available. Extend your wellness journey by venturing out to Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway, a 3,282-acre oasis with a lake, miles of hiking trails, and one of the area's few natural rock climbing spots. Almost 13 miles of trails range from easy to difficult, and the 640-acre lake offers six fishing piers. Penitentiary Hollow is where climbers enjoy rock climbing, and campsites and screened shelters are available. 'I love to hike the trails and rock climb in the canyon, then cool off with a swim in the lake,' says Elder, while Carol Clark Montgomery, a local whose family is responsible for opening Clark Gardens, suggests biking the 20-mile Trailway that connects Mineral Wells to the nearby city of Weatherford. 'This old rail bed turned hiking and biking trail passes through open ranch land and is a mix of beauty and adventure,' says Clark Montgomery. Operated by the Crazy Water Bottling Company, the Crazy Water Bath House & Spa is just down the street from The Crazy Water Hotel and offers mineral baths and other spa treatments with, you guessed it, Crazy Water that's pumped right through the faucets. The renovated bath house has numerous treatment rooms and tubs, where you can soak in the storied mineral water. Oxygen-rich microbubbles are injected into the water to promote natural cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturization. Numerous packages are available and include a soak coupled with a massage (Swedish, hot stone, deep tissue), reflexology, or a facial. 'This spa is a true hidden gem,' says Clark Montgomery. 'It's reasonably priced and praised for its authenticity and quality. Plus, it feels like stepping into a vintage retreat that's been updated for today.' After some locals uncovered an old advertising mural in town and gave it new life, efforts were made to revitalize other vintage artwork across town while adding in new ones, too. Today, more than 20 murals span downtown Mineral Wells, giving visitors a way to explore local artists' work while being active. Don't miss the Hot Tamale Man, which depicts local Fred Estrada, who sold the 'best tamales anywhere' at 75 cents a dozen, located at the corner of Hubbard Street and Oak Avenue, the same spot where he sold his tamales. There's also the Instagram-worthy "Greetings From Mineral Wells" postcard-style mural, and the "Flapper Girl" mural at The Ritz theater. Stocked shelves inside The Market at 76067. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure The Famous Mineral Water Company has been in business for more than 100 years selling Crazy Water, which is now distributed throughout the U.S., plus other products like T-shirts, hats, candles, soaps, and more. The Famous Pavilion is still in use here, where locals bring their containers and fill up on Crazy Water No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 that's piped straight from the source. Each bottle number varies in strength based on how deep into the earth the water is sourced. No. 4 is sourced at 120 feet, No. 3 at 360 feet, and No. 2 at 250 feet. No. 4 is the strongest as it has the highest mineral content, and most consumers choose to mix and match the different levels based on their tastebuds or needs. Mineral water, like Crazy Water, is naturally occurring. Water seeps through layers of earth over millions of years, picking up minerals, which are healthy for the human body. Crazy Water hydrates because your body absorbs the mineral more easily than synthetic ones. It's like a natural sports drink that helps aid in recovery and rehydration, and numerous athletes have actually used Crazy Water for this very reason. Aside from the Famous Pavilion, you'll find bottles of all Crazy Water here. Elder notes that daily walking tours of the facility are available and include a bottle of Crazy Water and a water sampling. 'We specialize in everything made with Crazy Water and source local and Texas artisans for merch and products,' she says. And as far as which Crazy Water is best for you? That's up to you to decide upon tasting. 'My favorite Crazy Water is No. 3,' says Elder. 'At home, we have it plumbed into our refrigerator through five-gallon bottles, and we make ice and cook with it every day, along with drinking it. It's very balanced for all day and every day drinking. I love the mineral taste.' In case you need a new pair of hiking shoes or workout gear for a trek out to the state park, head to The Outfitters of Palo Pinto County. An outdoor gear and apparel store, it sells lake gear, kayaks, coolers, bikes, running shoes, hats, sunglasses, and more. It also rents bikes for those wanting to explore the area, plus it has trail maps and offers expert tips on kayaking and canoeing in the area. Shop for everything you never knew you needed at The Market at 76067. The 12,000-square-foot space features more than 100 vendors, each selling something different. 'The Market at 76067 is like a treasure trove,' says Clark Montgomery. 'It's my go-to for shopping for myself or friends and family.' Find home decor, nuts and candies, bath and body products, jewelry, men's and women's clothing, oils and vinegars for cooking, antiques, and even fresh produce. One of the shops inside The Crazy Water Hotel, Sensology aims to please all your senses with soaps and perfumes, jewelry, designer apparel, and even a sweets counter filled with chocolate truffles. Browse for special gifts for friends, or splurge and grab yourself a new outfit. You can even curate your own wellness basket by picking up various bath salts, robes, slippers, and skin care products. Inside the old Poston's Plaza is The Collective at Poston's Plaza, a co-retail space where numerous vendors sell their wares. Shop for antiques, clothing, birdhouses, leather, mid-century furniture, paintings, cutting boards, and more. There are also dog treats, apparel, and a snow cone stand. Interior dining room at Rickhouse Brewing. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure James Beard-nominated chef David Bull left the big city of Austin and moved to Mineral Wells to open Second Bar + Kitchen, located at The Crazy Water Hotel. Elevated New American fare is the focus here, as is sourcing as many ingredients as possible locally and giving diners other options like vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free menu items. 'This is my go-to for a date night,' says Clark Montgomery. Crispy Brussels sprouts with smoked bacon, mint, feta, and golden raisins; the Black and Bleu pizza with bleu cheese and pork belly; and steaks served with green chile polenta are all local favorites. If you splurge on a burger, chase it down with the wellness shot. Also at The Crazy Water Hotel is Rickhouse Brewing, a small-town pub brewing beers right on site. Lagers, pale ales, hefeweizens, stouts, and Kölsch beers are all on the menu. Don't like beer? There's also wine and sangria. Live music is scheduled regularly on Wednesdays and Sundays, and the brewery hosts special intimate concerts throughout the year. A food truck keeps snacking convenient. Locals know Natty Flat by its gigantic wooden rocking chair that sits outside of the original location in Lipan, Texas, but it has another outpost in Mineral Wells that also serves the same old-school barbecue its original venue prides itself on. Brisket, sausage, turkey, and smoked bologna are just some of the proteins available that pair well with barbecue beans, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, and other sides. Don't forget the banana pudding, cobblers, fried pies, and ice cream cones for dessert, and check out the cookbooks, mugs, jerky, homemade fudge, and jams for a unique souvenir. And though it's smaller than the original, there's still a large rocking chair outside for pictures. Fuel up for a day of exploring at Happy Days Diner, a '50s-style diner with vintage flair. If the checkered tabletops and old records on the wall don't let you know this is a casual spot, the breakfast plates piled with biscuits and gravy and pancake stacks should give you the right idea. Of course, there are healthier options like the fruit and yogurt bowl, but this old-school spot really does classic breakfast the right way. They also serve lunch, which includes items like hamburger steak, Frito pie, hot dogs, and wraps. Check out the old-time candies on your way out. A modern eatery, Coffee & Cocktails at 76067 has a large menu filled with sliders, pizzas, wraps, sandwiches, and appetizers like charcuterie boards, bruschetta, and chips and dips. 'It's a vibrant scene with music, food, and drinks that's perfect for meeting up with friends or making new ones,' says Clark Montgomery. Lighter options such as soups and salads are available, too, and the coffee menu is lengthy. A mural in downtown Mineral Wells, Texas. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure In general, Texas gets hot in the summertime, with temperatures often reaching the triple digits in July and August, so you may want to avoid a trip during this time. A spring visit offers wildflower blooms and flowers coming back at Clark Gardens, plus milder temperatures. Fall and winter are also ideal times to visit, as temperatures are cooler and Mineral Wells is busy with events such as the Crazy Water Festival (October), Christmas Festival and Lighted Parade (November), and numerous holiday events in December. A large street sign welcoming people to Mineral Wells, Texas. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure The nearest airport to Mineral Wells is Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, about 75 miles east of the city. You'll need to rent a car from the airport, or if you're local, drive your own vehicle to Mineral Wells. Dallas is about 82 miles east of Mineral Wells, and Fort Worth is about 50 miles east. Public transportation is not available, and ride-share services, like most small towns, are hit or miss. It's best to rent a car or drive your own vehicle.
