A landmark Dallas hotel is celebrating a birthday.

When the Hilton Anatole opened in 1979, it was the biggest hotel in North Texas, with 900 rooms and the largest meeting hotel in the entire country. Since then, it has grown even bigger, to more than 1,600 rooms.

The Anatole — still part of original developer Trammell Crow's family-owned Crow Holdings — is celebrating four decades of business this year.

"This milestone could not have been achieved without the trust and support of our guests and faithful team members who have propelled the Anatole forward," Robert Watson, general manager of the Hilton Anatole, said in a statement. "In addition, our amazing owners, Crow Holdings, have continually invested in the hotel over the years to ensure its relevancy in an always-changing marketplace."

Over the years, the 45-acre hotel complex has hosted Hollywood celebs, visiting dignitaries and an endless stream of local social events.

The Anatole was the headquarters for the 1984 Republican National Convention.

Overnight guests have included everyone from Bob Hope to Margaret Thatcher, Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant and Liza Minnelli. Michael Jackson brought along his pet monkey when he checked in.

The Anatole plans to offer a series of special events and customer offers this year to commemorate the anniversary.