TripSavvy Inspiration The Best Phoenix Valley Hotels You can't beat a stay at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort By Jill Schildhouse Jill Schildhouse Writer Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Northern Illinois University Jill Schildhouse is an award-winning freelance writer based in Phoenix, Arizona. Her work has appeared in such publications as Reader's Digest, Oxygen, and more. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 06/21/22 Fact checked by Elizabeth Berry Fact checked by Elizabeth Berry Instagram LinkedIn Connecticut College Elizabeth Berry is a writer and fact-checker with a background in food journalism and two years of experience editing lifestyle content. She has written for various publications including The Knot, Magenta Florence & Vista Magazine, SWAAY, Loverly, and Her Campus. TripSavvy's fact-checking Share Pin Email Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. Travelers headed to the Valley of the Sun may be surprised to discover how diverse this area of the Grand Canyon State is. From boulders and desert brush to lush green lawns and mountain ranges, the scenery never disappoints as you move from Phoenix to Scottsdale and beyond. As befits such a spectacular vacation destination (Phoenix has 299 days of sunshine each year), there are myriad lodging options around town, ranging from high-end luxury resorts to mid-century modern boutique hotels. Some of these properties are built right into the Sonoran Desert’s stunning landscape, while others use their natural surroundings to inspire their choices in architecture, décor, materials, and amenities. Read on to learn more about our top picks for the best hotels in Phoenix. The 9 Best Phoenix Valley Hotels Best Overall: Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Best for Girlfriend Getaways: Hotel Valley Ho Best for Spring Training: Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West Best Boutique: Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa Best for Families: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Best Luxury: The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale Best Business: The Camby, Autograph Collection Best Budget: Rise Uptown Best Wellness: Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton The Best Phoenix Valley Hotels View All The Best Phoenix Valley Hotels Our Top Picks Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Hotel Valley Ho Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa Fairmont Scottsdale Princess The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale The Camby, Autograph Collection Rise Uptown Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton See More (6) Final Verdict Compare the Best Phoenix Valley Hotels Methodology Best Overall : Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort See Rates on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It On the heels of a property-wide transformation, this iconic resort has a fresh, new feel and central location nestled into the backyard of the Valley’s best restaurants and shopping. Pros 7 pools, some with air-conditioned cabanas Waterslide and children’s splash pad Jogging and biking loops around the property Multiple dining options and bars Cons Rooms get pricey in high season The Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, has been captivating the hearts of travelers since 1929. Designed during Hollywood’s Golden Age—a collaboration between famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his former student Albert Chase McArthur—this 39-acre property just reopened on May 1, 2021, after a 15-month-long renovation that’s catapulted it to the top slot of best Phoenix hotels. Original elements, such as the signature Biltmore Block and Wright Bar (where the famous Tequila Sunrise was invented), were lovingly restored while new features skillfully meld history with modernity. The heart of the property now centers around the new Spire Bar, a swanky alfresco lounge space adorned with water and fire features that’s anchored by a 30-foot spire that pays homage to Wright’s bold design aesthetic. Throughout the property, you’ll find seven pools, including the adults-only Saguaro Pool (featuring a 140-year-old Saguaro cactus) and the reimagined Paradise Pool. There are air-conditioned cabanas for the adults and a 65-foot triple waterslide and splash pad for the kids. Afternoons at one of six tennis courts or two pickleball courts are sure to rev up your appetite. Renata’s Hearth is the new Latin restaurant on site, with a dinner-only menu that explores “the essence of smoke” in many of its dishes and drinks—the Los Muertos cocktail comes enveloped in a delightfully smoke-filled presentation; the Argentinian red shrimp ceviche is fresh and bright; and the "para compartir" (for the table) crispy slow-cooked pork belly roast with warm tortillas and salsa verde is rich and savory. Complete your meal with the charred pineapple crème caramel (you can thank us later). Book a lavish one- or two-bedroom villa suite with a kitchen or a luxuriously remodeled cottage bathed in a palette of earthy hues, wood, bespoke furniture, and comforting touches. Notable Amenities Tierra Luna Spa, featuring Sonoran Desert-inspired therapiesTwo 18-hole championship golf coursesTesla charging station Best for Girlfriend Getaways : Hotel Valley Ho Hotel Valley Ho See Rates on Skylark.com Why We Chose It Between its vibrant pool scene, chic bar and easy access to Scottsdale’s best nightlife and shopping, Hotel Valley Ho is the place to see and be seen. Pros Pets stay free Summers are vivacious, with live music and DJs spinning at the pool Views of Camelback Mountain Cons Parking (valet or self-service) is $22 + tax Bing Crosby, Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh, Zsa Zsa Gabor...what do these celebrities from every era have in common? A stay at the mid-century modern Hotel Valley Ho, a staple in Scottsdale since 1956. Just one year after opening its doors, Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood held their private wedding reception in the hotel’s ballroom. Yep, this property has roots steeped in pure Hollywood gold. Today, the crowd tends to be design-savvy, young, and hip—perhaps because it’s conveniently situated in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, mere steps away from bustling shops, art galleries and museums, and fine dining spots on Main Street. The colorful property is bursting with amenities that include 24-hour access to a state-of-the-art fitness center and sauna, a renowned spa, two pools, and ample outdoor lounge space. Where’s the party at one of the best hotels in Phoenix? One of two spots: the vibrant in-house restaurant, ZuZu, which serves classic American fare and artisanal cocktails, or the OH Pool, featuring local musicians and DJs on the weekends. Guests have their pick of contemporary rooms and suites that feature floor-to-ceiling glass and private patios or balconies, in addition to basic amenities like a morning bar with complimentary coffee, oversized bathtub, luxe toiletries, and a flat screen. Notable Amenities VH SpaBathtub bottle servicePrivate yoga sessions available Best for Spring Training : Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West See Rates on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It Spring training fans planning to see a Chicago Cubs game should consider this hotel baseball basecamp. Pros Guest rooms with a view of the Cubs stadium Adjacent to outdoor park for kids 2 heated swimming pools, 2 plunge pools, and a hot tub Cons Some reviews note the rooms are dusty Each February, the MLB’s Spring Training Cactus League (with 10 facilities hosting 15 teams from around the country) heats up in Phoenix, but there’s no hotter ticket in town than a Chicago Cubs game at Sloan Park. Diehard fans would be wise to snag a room at the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West, right next door, and select a room facing the stadium to watch some of the action from their room. When you’re not at the ballpark, enjoy some downtime at the one-acre pool recreation area with fire and water features throughout. There are two heated swimming pools, a hot tub, and poolside services. You won’t miss a moment of any ballgame airing on TV when you grab a bite at the Stats Sports Grill, thanks to its 20 flat-screen TVs. Across the street, you’ll find Mesa Riverview Park, a massive outdoor park perfect for letting the little ones burn off some energy: It has two playgrounds and the world’s tallest rope climbing tower, which stretches 50 feet into the air. There’s also a 75-foot zip line and splash pad, shaded picnic table areas, and miles of accessible sidewalks. Notable Amenities Rooftop event space facing Sloan Park Best Boutique : Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa See Rates on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It There’s no better place to relax and reconnect with yourself or a loved one than the aptly-named Sanctuary on Camelback. Pros Built into the iconic Camelback Mountain Pet-friendly Daily fitness classes Cons Pricey If it’s a luxury and upscale relaxation you’re after, look no further than Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, a spectacular 53-acre resort carved into the side of its scenic namesake. The landscape here is awe-inspiring—panoramic views of the mountainous desert are almost worth the room rate alone. Multi-level casitas with floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the sweeping vistas, while one- and two-bedroom suites offer even more room to spread out. Next-level luxury resides in the seven private mountainside villas, each offering impressive amenities such as private pools and tennis courts. Guests can luxuriate in the 12,000-square-foot spa featuring Asian-inspired treatments, join a standup paddleboard yoga class, go for a hike on one of the many lovely trails that dot the property, take a dip in the infinity pool (which becomes adult’s only Friday-Sunday), lounge in a private outdoor soaking tub, dine at famed on-site restaurant Elements, or play tennis or pickleball. Accommodations at Sanctuary are the pinnacle of luxury, with magnificent views of the mountains to match. A stay at the Sanctuary Camelback Resort won’t come cheap, but if you’re craving romance in the lap of luxury, it doesn’t get more upscale than this. Notable Amenities Sanctuary SpaAward-winning cuisine by famous chefs including Chef Michael Mina and Chef Richard Sandoval 3 Deco-Turf championship tennis courts Best for Families : Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Buy on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It This sophisticated property with a myriad of kid-approved activities proves it is possible to book a vacation that’s fun for the whole family. Pros The longest-running AAA Five Diamond hotel Five Diamond property in Arizona 6 pools, one with a white sand beach Trailblazers Kids Club and Family Recreation Center Cons Large resort with plenty of walking Self parking is $15/night Picture your entire family smiling, laughing, and having the time of their lives—the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess goes above and beyond to make this blissful thought a reality. Each morning, kids ages 5-12 are kept busy in the Kids Club, with supervised games, crafts, and swimming. Parents may choose to indulge in some self-care at the Well & Being Spa with an aromatherapy massage or aerial yoga class, or hit the greens at the nearby championship-level golf courses. In the afternoons, guests of all ages can visit the recreation center to borrow sports equipment and fishing poles, play ping pong and arcade games, or ride 3D simulators. For fun in the sun, choose from one of six pools based on your mood: There’s an adults-only option with day beds and floating bean bags, the Sonoran Splash with two 200-foot twisting water slides and covered sandboxes, or Sunset Beach, which instantly transports you to a tropical paradise thanks to 9,000 square feet of white sand (the only patch in Arizona) and palm trees. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Bourbon Steak, where award-winning chef Michael Mina serves up dry-aged steaks cooked over mesquite wood flames or La Hacienda for fresh-made guacamole, carne asada, and flights of tequila and agave spirits. Notable Amenities Well & Being SpaAccess to 2 championship-level TPC golf coursesFairmont Fit Program Best Luxury : The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale See Rates on Skylark.com Why We Chose It Nestled into the base of Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician has it all—from pools and shopping to a spa and golf course—and graciously delivers it to guests on a silver platter. Pros The Funicians Club kid’s program 9 drinking and dining experiences 3-level pool complex Cons Restaurant and spa reservations book up far in advance While most of these best hotels in Phoenix offer luxurious touches, The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale, oozes extravagance at every turn. Heck, even the standard guest rooms come with marble bathrooms, signature robes, and a Keurig coffee maker. Consider upgrading to a Presidential Suite, with 4,000 square feet of space, views of the vistas from your balconies, a full-service kitchen, expansive living space, and locally sourced artwork. But to really wow yourself and your guests, choose the Canyon Suites—the only AAA Five Diamond hotel in the greater Phoenix area, located on The Phoenician grounds — which offer the best of the best: private infinity pools, complimentary breakfast, and a personal Canyon Ambassador to assist with anything you need. Your daily resort fee includes in-room Wi-Fi, outdoor yoga classes, tennis, cruising bicycles, and craft beer tasting. Spend your days lounging at the three-tiered pool complex that features the iconic hand-tiled mother of pearl pool on the lower level plus three separate pools on the upper level. There’s a treehouse, splash pad, and waterslide for the kids, too. The Phoenician Spa is a must-visit, with 24 treatment rooms and a Tranquility Suite for couples (not to mention, the rooftop pool has 360-degree views) and golfers will go ga-ga for the Phoenician Golf Course, an 18-hole course that plays to par 71 and truly showcases the desert landscape. Feeling famished after all that fun? Mowry & Cotton dishes up modern American cuisine inspired by the seasons, while J&G Steakhouse features a tasting menu that’ll give you an impressive sampling of the expansive offerings. Notable Amenities The Phoenician SpaThe Shops at the Phoenician Best Business : The Camby, Autograph Collection The Camby, Autograph Collection See Rates on Skylark.com Why We Chose It Just because you’re traveling on business doesn’t mean you should have to skimp on style, comfort, and sophistication. Pros Walking distance to trendy shops and restaurants Pet-friendly Rooftop pool with misting system Cons Pool doesn’t open until 10 a.m., which isn’t ideal for hot summers For the utmost in boutique business travel, book a room at the Camby Hotel in Phoenix (formerly a Ritz-Carlton). Conveniently located on Camelback Road and 2401 E Street in the heart of Phoenix, right next to a plethora of shops, bars, and restaurants (including Biltmore Fashion Park), this elegant hotel boasts a snazzy rooftop pool, two buzzing restaurants, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and 24-hour room service, so you can treat yourself to a post-work cocktail, a leisurely workout, or a refreshing swim. Accommodations at the Camby are sleek and comfortable, with spacious marble bathrooms, original artwork, expansive views, and copper Mylar ceilings, in addition to basics like a Keurig coffeemaker, fridge, and TV with access to streaming services. Stop by The Bee’s Knees, a chic lounge that serves a stylish happy hour perfect for entertaining clients—on weekends, try Tipsy Tea, a boozy tea service with adorably Instagram-worthy teapots and delicious snacks. And when meeting for drinks turns into a dinner meeting, head to onsite restaurant Artizen and choose the mouthwatering herb-marinated flat iron steak. Notable Amenities Electric car charging stations Best Budget : Rise Uptown Rise Uptown See Rates on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It A hot newcomer to the Uptown Phoenix scene, locally-owned Rise Uptown delivers a chill pool experience and rooms outfitted in local touches—with a price that can’t be beat. Pros Popsicle stand with dozens of flavors (including boozy ones) Pet-friendly Outdoor heated pool with plenty of shade Cons Pool crowds can get noisy Limited parking available Uptown Phoenix is one of the trendiest spots in the Valley, boasting many of the best restaurants, bars, and nightlife options. So Rise Uptown was smart to swoop in and provide out-of-towners and staycationers alike a social place to lounge by the pool and rest their weary heads. This locally-owned boutique hotel offers plenty of amenities to attract younger crowds—from foosball tables and Bali beds to frozen treats made from fresh fruit and a Cartel Coffee Lab for anytime caffeine fixes—without alienating older generations. The heart of this property is the Lylo Swim Club, a mid-century modern outdoor restaurant and bar adjacent to the pool area that’s known for its delicious cocktails (the Dole Whipped is a rum-drenched, pineapple-flavored soft serve that goes down a bit too easily) and Hawaiian-Japanese-inspired bowls (the KBBQ Beef is unbeatable). The fun doesn’t stop in the evenings, however. With ample seating and fire features beckoning guests to gather around, the nighttime ambiance at Lylo sets the tone for a good night’s sleep. Rooms are outfitted with 100% Egyptian cotton bedding, Lather bath amenities, Apple TV and Direct TV, a Marshall Bluetooth speaker, and a record player with a collection of albums curated by local record store Stinkweeds. Looking for a nightcap? Newly opened Don Woods Say When rooftop bar is brimming with rich burgundy carpets and brass- and leather-accented furnishings, and views that stretch from Camelback Mountain to the downtown skyline to the westward sunsets Arizona is known for. Notable Amenities Cartel Coffee LabLylo Swim Club Best Wellness : Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton See Rates on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It The 1,300-acre Boulders Resort & Spa has won dozens of awards and accolades, and upon arrival, guests will have no trouble seeing why. Pros 4 pools and a terraced tennis garden Spa with meditative labyrinth, Native American tipi, spiral steam room Nutritional counseling and personal training available Cons Spa treatments book up quickly In the picturesque (and aptly named) village of Carefree at the postcard-worthy foothills of the Sonoran Desert, lies Arizona's coolest lodging. This wildly scenic, luxe property provides the perfect getaway for travelers seeking upscale R&R in a drop-dead gorgeous desert setting surrounded by 12-million-year-old boulder formations. The resort features 160 casitas and 61 villas that boast beamed ceilings, cozy Southwestern-inspired décor, natural stone showers, and wood-burning fireplaces, as well as a wide range of in-room amenities that include a sleek HDTV with premium HD channels. Some casitas have a private patio or balcony with awe-inspiring views of the ancient rock formations in the area; villas and haciendas are very spacious and stylishly decorated, with fully equipped kitchens, laundry rooms, living areas, and multiple bedrooms. Consider the Boulders Resort & Spa the ultimate wellness retreat, complete with four swimming pools, two world-class golf courses, eight tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, and miles of ruggedly beautiful hiking and biking trails on the premises. For the more adventurous, book a guided boulder climbing experience or nighttime bike ride with LED lights. The spa not only delivers treatments showcasing healing traditions from various cultures around the world (such as massages using locally sourced clay or citrus), but unexpected offerings, such as a meditative labyrinth, Native American tipi, and a spiral steam room. Nutritional counseling, personal training, chakra balancing, and astrological soul readings are also available. Notable Amenities 2 championship 18-hole Jay Morrish-designed golf coursesBoulders Spa and Fitness Center Final Verdict With so many exceptional options for the best hotels in Phoenix, you’ll have your pick of trendy, nostalgic, recently remodeled, or over-the-top luxury (and many of these picks tick several of those boxes). Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, is one such property that melds old and new together for a spectacular stay you won’t soon forget. Budget-minded travelers will adore the Insta-worthy setting at Rise Uptown just as much as they love the frozen drinks and chill vibe. Families will feel right at home at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, even if their home isn’t anywhere near as fun as this resort. Finally, The Phoenician knows how to dial up the indulgence without feeling stiff or unapproachable. Compare the Best Phoenix Valley Hotels Property Resort Fee Rates Rooms Wi-Fi Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Best Overall $45/night $$$ 701 Free Hotel Valley Ho Best for Girlfriend Getaways No $$ 241 Free Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West Best for Spring Training No $$ 180 Free Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa Best Boutique $45/night for casitas/suites and $125 for villas $$$ 109 Free Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Best for Families $39/night $$$ 750 Free The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale Best Luxury $45/night $$$ 645 Free The Camby, Autograph Collection Best Business No $$ 277 Free Rise Uptown Best Budget No $ 79 Free Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton Best Wellness $35/night $$ 222 Free Methodology We evaluated dozens of the best hotels in Phoenix and considered such factors as the hotel’s reputation, quality of service, and crowd-pleasing amenities (e.g., multiple swimming pools, kid’s clubs, and scenery). We also looked at the property’s dining venues and unique experiences (like mixology classes and spa services) available to guests. In addition to customer reviews, we gave note to each of the hotel’s sanitation and cleanliness measures. Matt Mawson / Getty Images Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies