Top Hotels in Scottsdale
Few destinations in the U.S. offer the perfect blend for an ideal getaway: abundant sunshine, luxurious spas and golf courses, breathtaking natural landscapes, a variety of family-friendly activities, major sports events, and some of the finest resorts nationwide.
Welcome to Scottsdale, Arizona.
Living just a few hours away in Southern California, I often escape to Scottsdale for weekends filled with relaxing poolside lounging, energizing hikes, and exceptional spa experiences. The hotels here, ranging from renowned resort brands to charming boutique inns, are among the best I've encountered, featuring beautifully landscaped grounds, lavish spas, shimmering pools, and stunning vistas. Many of these top-notch Scottsdale hotels are also recipients of Dinogo’s World’s Best Awards and It List.
Your biggest challenge in Scottsdale won’t be the sweltering summer temperatures; it will be deciding where to stay. Continue reading to discover our top recommendations, selected from editor favorites, T+L award winners, and my own personal experiences.
Adero Scottsdale Resort, Autograph Collection
Photo: Courtesy of MarriottWith the McDowell Mountain range and nature preserve just nearby, Adero guests have easy access to hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. Don't miss the chance for stargazing, as the area is recognized as a Dark Sky community.
The hotel is not in a walkable area, so you'll need to drive to nearby restaurants and attractions, and finding Ubers or Lyfts may be challenging.
Adero is a haven for nature enthusiasts, recognized on the T+L It List in 2021. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and yoga are prominent, with an on-site trailhead for immediate access. Alternatively, take the hotel shuttle for a quick trip to the Adero Canyon trailhead, which opens up to over 55,000 acres of stunning desert landscapes and wildlife.
Nestled in a certified Dark Sky community, the hotel features 177 rooms, each equipped with a private balcony offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the night sky. Guests can enjoy high-definition telescopes available for room delivery upon request. The nearby Fountain Hills Dark Sky Association hosts educational events focused on astronomy, enhancing the experience for stargazers.
Adero's rooms are adorned with vibrant colors and bold designs, complementing the neutral furniture with lively accents like throw pillows and wall art. Each room includes modern bathrooms and botanical-themed bedding, while upgraded options feature Peloton bikes, and some suites provide spacious sitting areas and large terraces.
Cielo, the hotel's restaurant, offers elevated American cuisine, allowing guests to dine under a starlit sky on the outdoor deck. The property boasts two pools—one family-friendly and an adults-only lap pool—along with a hot tub. Guests can also enjoy tennis and pickleball courts and a spa to unwind after exploring the beautiful desert surroundings.
Essential Information:
- Location: Fountain Hills
- Distance From Airport: 26 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Pet Policy: The hotel accommodates dogs up to 25 pounds, with a maximum of two per room and a one-time, non-refundable cleaning fee of $150.
- Resort Fee: $35 plus tax, covering amenities such as a reusable tote bag and water bottle, welcome drink, access to tennis or pickleball courts with equipment, a $10 spa credit, daily self-guided desert hikes, fitness and Peloton classes, lawn games, shuttle service to trailheads, Wi-Fi, and nightly telescope delivery for stargazing.
- Parking: On-site valet parking is available for $25 per day, with complimentary electric car charging stations.
- Accessibility: The hotel features accessible doorways, fitness facilities, elevators, parking, pathways, ramps, and pool access, along with specialized amenities for guests with hearing and visual impairments. Guest rooms come equipped with lowered bars and shelves, viewports, temperature controls, and secure doors; bathrooms include grab bars, roll-in showers, handheld showerheads; hearing accessible kits are available at check-in.
- Rates: Starting at $127
Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale
Image courtesy of Mountain Shadows Resort ScottsdaleThis hotel impresses from the moment you arrive, showcasing a stunning midcentury entrance and breathtaking mountain views visible through the lobby's expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a sleek pool that appeals to social media influencers.
The hotel frequently hosts events like weddings and corporate retreats, which may occasionally restrict access to some public areas, such as the restaurant and lawns, along with potential noise disruptions.
Mountain Shadows evokes memories of numerous hotels I've visited in Palm Springs, not just for the desert ambiance but also for its authentic midcentury charm. Established in 1959, this property once hosted celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and John Wayne.
This T+L 2022 World's Best Awards winner retains some original features, such as the pool's cement breeze block and the restaurant's name. History enthusiasts can delve into the hotel's legacy by strolling through hallways that serve as art galleries, adorned with photos and plaques narrating its rich story.
Vintage photographs also embellish the walls of the 183 guest rooms, blending seamlessly with contemporary decor. Most accommodations feature cement ceilings and sultry, standalone walk-in glass showers, separated from the main area by a curtain. Even the standard rooms are spacious, starting at 427 square feet, each with private patios offering views of the mountains, pools, or golf course. I shared my room with my husband and two children, and we felt more than comfortable.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the 18-hole short course nestled against Camelback Mountain, located next to Rusty's Grill, which boasts a large patio overlooking the greens. Hearth '61, the hotel's premier restaurant, serves robust farm-to-table dishes and features an adjoining bar and lounge for cocktails and conversation. The dining area opens up to a terrace furnished with couches and seating areas, all offering stunning views of two stylish 75-foot pools lined with loungers and cabanas available for reservation. The entire pool scene is striking, set against breathtaking mountain vistas, perfect for a curated Instagram moment.
The Details:
- Location: Paradise Valley
- Distance From Airport: 9 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: Mountain Shadows rewards program
- Pet Policy: This hotel welcomes pets, with the requirement that all animals be registered. A complimentary amenity package is provided, including a bed, food and water bowls, bottled water, doggie bags, and more.
- Resort Fee: $42 plus tax per day, covering valet parking, golf club rentals, fitness center classes, pool access, and additional amenities.
- Parking: Both overnight valet and self-parking are included in the resort fee. Charging stations for Tesla and universal EVs are also available.
- Accessibility: Guest rooms feature accessible elements such as lowered security glass, vanities, closet shelves, and safes; grab bars and rails in roll-in showers and toilets with handheld wands; accessible paths throughout the hotel and amenities; an ADA chair lift at the pool, among others.
- Rates: Starting at $199
Andaz Scottsdale Resort and Bungalows
Courtesy of Andaz Scottsdale Resort & BungalowsAndaz's expansive 23-acre property is just 2 miles from the vibrant Old Town Scottsdale, yet it feels like a secluded retreat, complete with enriching cultural programs and exclusive access to local art institutions.
The hefty resort fee does not cover parking.
Andaz Scottsdale is more than just a hotel; it's a comprehensive lifestyle resort that provides an enriching experience that goes well beyond mere accommodation.
Art plays a pivotal role at this resort, with special access to the Cattle Track Arts & Preservation Compound, a community-focused organization. Guests can participate in hands-on workshops with local artists, and artwork from these artists is displayed throughout the property. Additionally, complimentary access is provided to both the Arizona State University Kerr Cultural Center and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts. For a fee, guests can also enroll in unique classes like bird watching, perfume crafting, mixology, and cooking.
This 2018 It List winner places a strong emphasis on wellness. The Palo Verde Spa offers a range of desert-inspired treatments, steam rooms, outdoor hot tubs, a private pool, and an outdoor lounge area. Guests can create personalized essential oil blends at the spa apothecary, and the fitness center provides complimentary classes in meditation, yoga, and boot camp.
Wellness is also a highlight in some of the 185 bungalows, which feature in-room Tonal smart gym systems. For those who prefer relaxation, the standard rooms are equally luxurious, boasting private patios, rainfall showers, and modern furnishings.
In addition to the spa pool, there are two other pools; I enjoyed a delightful day at the scenic Turquoise Pool, sipping iced beverages after a fantastic brunch at Weft & Warp. This restaurant offers modern Mediterranean dishes in a bright setting that extends to a patio with views of the pool. While the hotel may come with a higher price tag, it offers numerous benefits, including complimentary house car rides within a 3-mile radius, turndown service, and bike rentals.
The Details:
- Location: Old Town
- Distance From Airport: 9 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: World of Hyatt
- Pet Policy: Pets are allowed for a fee of $150 per stay for up to six nights, or $150 plus an additional $150 cleaning fee for longer stays. This fee covers one dog weighing up to 50 pounds or two dogs with a combined weight of no more than 75 pounds.
- Resort Fee: $45 plus tax per day, which includes access to Cattle Track Art Compound, preferred entry to artists’ studios, fitness classes, 24-hour gym access, a welcome drink, daily entry to the Arizona State University Kerr Cultural Center, house car transportation within a 3-mile radius, water refill stations, EV charging, resort bicycles, and recreational games such as croquet, corn hole, and bocce ball.
- Parking: Self-parking is available for $23 per night, while valet service costs $35 per night.
- Accessibility: Public areas like the entrance, pool, lobby, restaurants, restrooms, pathways, and fitness center are accessible. Guest rooms designed for mobility have doorways that are 32 inches wide and closed-caption options for in-room televisions.
- Rates: Start at $194
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, a Gurney's Resort & Spa
Image courtesy of Sanctuary on Camelback MountainFor a spa getaway in Scottsdale, Sanctuary truly lives up to its name, offering unique treatments in a stunning environment.
The atmosphere here tends to cater to adults; although guests of all ages are welcome, the main infinity pool is exclusively for adults on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, except during major holidays.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, Sanctuary on Camelback is your ideal choice. This T+L World’s Best Award winner for 2021, 2022, and 2023 offers a true haven for indulgent wellness, set against the backdrop of its namesake mountain.
The main spa facility spans 12,000 square feet and features 12 treatment rooms that open to the outdoors. Experience bliss with Asian-inspired treatments such as the Sumatra coconut body ritual, reiki healing, detoxifying sugar exfoliation, and aquatic massages, along with all the usual spa offerings. Additionally, there’s a Zen meditation garden, a reflection pond, and a complete salon available.
While the spa is the main attraction, the remainder of the resort provides a tranquil experience across its 53 acres. A soothing palette of neutral tones reflects the natural landscape and fills the hotel’s 110 casitas and suites, as well as eight exclusive mountain villas. Standard casitas are spacious, beginning at 500 square feet, featuring cool tile flooring, natural materials, and luxurious bathrooms with large soaking tubs and separate showers. Upgraded accommodations include multi-bedroom suites equipped with outdoor tubs or showers and glass rock fireplaces, depending on the selection.
The resort also boasts a fitness center offering complimentary workout classes, three swimming pools, a town car service, and courts for tennis and pickleball. The primary restaurant, Elements, showcases fresh American cuisine with Asian influences, while the Jade Bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails.
The Details:
- Location: Paradise Valley
- Distance From Airport: 8 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: None.
- Pet Policy: Most rooms and villas accommodate up to two cats or dogs, each weighing 50 pounds or less, with a one-time non-refundable deposit of $100.
- Resort Fee: $50 plus tax, which covers self and valet parking, 24-hour text messaging concierge, house car rides to Old Town Scottsdale and Scottsdale Fashion Square, spa and fitness access, select movement studio classes, tennis and pickleball courts, bike rentals, Wi-Fi, and in-room coffee, espresso, teas, and bottled water.
- Parking: Both self and valet parking are included in the resort fee.
- Accessibility: There are seven ADA-compliant rooms available, and many facilities, including the restaurant, are wheelchair accessible.
- Rates: Start at $305.
The Scott Resort & Spa
Chris MottaliniThis property evokes the essence of the Caribbean, with its bohemian wicker and rattan furnishings in the lobby and the inviting zero-entry sandy beach pool.
Accommodations are distributed across several two-story buildings. There are no elevators for accessing the second floor, so if stairs are a concern, be sure to request a ground-floor room.
With its striking turquoise 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air on display out front, The Scott offers an escape from the everyday, creating a sense of being far removed from Scottsdale, even though Old Town is just minutes away.
In a city brimming with upscale retreats, I appreciate The Scott for its relaxed, family-friendly vibe that still offers a touch of elegance. I visited with my two young children, but I've also enjoyed it during a bachelorette weekend, and I believe it's a fantastic choice for both occasions.
The lobby, designed with an open and welcoming atmosphere, features wicker chairs, rattan details, and lush palm trees. This bohemian style carries through to the 204 rooms and suites, which are equally infused with Caribbean-inspired elements, from the headboards to the Adirondack chairs on the balconies.
A highlight is the lagoon-style pool, featuring a sandy zero-entry area where children can play or swim beneath a small bridge, all shaded by leafy trees. There’s also a second pool with a hot tub where adults tend to congregate, conveniently located next to a tiki bar that serves drinks and Cuban-inspired cuisine. Nearby, you’ll find serene seating areas—one by a koi pond and another on a spacious lawn outfitted with Gatsby-style rocking chairs, hammocks, Jenga, and cornhole.
Don't miss out on dining at The Canal Club, an Instagram-worthy venue that brings a taste of Havana with creative cocktails and dishes like ceviche, tostones, snapper, gaucho steak, and of course, a Cubano sandwich.
Finally, tucked away in a corner of the resort, almost like an enchanted garden, is La Vidorra Spa. With only a handful of treatment rooms and no extra amenities, it may seem modest compared to the grand spas at other resorts, but overlooking it would be a mistake. It’s where I experienced one of the best facials of my life.
The Details:
- Location: Old Town
- Distance From Airport: 9 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: None available.
- Pet Policy: Most rooms welcome up to two pets (cats or dogs) weighing 50 pounds or less, with a one-time non-refundable deposit of $100.
- Resort Fee: $57 plus tax, which covers self and valet parking, electric vehicle charging, a resort shuttle within a 3-mile radius, bicycle rentals, Wi-Fi, smart TV streaming, fitness center access, lawn games, daily yoga, complimentary water and tea in the lobby, and more.
- Parking: Self-parking and valet services are included in the resort fee.
- Accessibility: Several rooms feature roll-in showers with grab bars and fold-down seats, accessible commodes, entry and bathroom doors, commode bars, and raised vanity sinks for roll-in access, along with hearing and communication aids.
- Rates: Begin at $149.
Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
Image courtesy of HiltonThis resort, beautifully nestled beside towering rock formations, a scenic golf course, and lovely nature trails, truly embodies a desert oasis.
The hotel's remote setting can be either a blessing or a drawback, as it’s located 25 miles from Old Town, taking approximately 35 to 40 minutes to reach, depending on traffic.
For many, a desert escape means leaving behind the city for an expansive landscape filled with towering stones and cacti. If this resonates with you, consider booking at Boulders Resort & Spa.
Nestled in North Scottsdale at the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, Boulders is a stunning resort surrounded by massive 12-million-year-old rock formations. Once you enter its sprawling 1,300 acres, you might find little reason to venture out.
This resort is particularly ideal for families, offering spacious one-, two-, or three-bedroom Hacienda or Villa homes. My family spent a night in one and I found myself wishing for a week-long stay, as it included all the comforts of home, such as a kitchen, laundry facilities, a grill, a rooftop terrace, and a private backyard. However, I would also love to return with my husband to the roomy, 550-square-foot standard Adobe casitas, featuring Southwestern-inspired designs, wooden beam ceilings, stone showers, and private patios.
Regardless of your preferences, there's an abundance of activities available. I particularly enjoyed my morning stroll along the nature trails that meander beside the award-winning Jay Morrish-designed golf courses, leading up into the rocks for breathtaking views over Scottsdale. The hotel can also organize a variety of adventures, including mountain climbing, bouldering, and hot air balloon excursions.
The resort features four pools in total; the main pool near the lobby is picturesque, complete with a waterfall cascading over large boulders, while the adults-only pool at the expansive 33,000-square-foot spa offers a serene environment perfect for quiet reflection, especially before or after a spa treatment.
Additionally, there are five restaurants on-site, tennis and pickleball courts, a fitness center, and a shuttle service to help you navigate the extensive grounds.
Essential Information:
- Location: North Scottsdale
- Distance From Airport: 32 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: Hilton Honors.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not permitted.
- Resort Fee: $35 plus tax, covering on-property shuttle service, Wi-Fi, fitness center access and classes, gratuities for bell service and shuttle drivers, club storage, and local and toll-free calls.
- Parking: Valet parking is $25 per night, while self-parking is complimentary.
- Accessibility: Most amenities are equipped with accessible features, including the business center, elevators, concierge desk, fitness center, restaurants, parking spaces, pool, meeting rooms, guest rooms, and more.
- Rates: Start at $178
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
Image courtesy of MarriottThe spa ranks among the finest I’ve experienced in Scottsdale, and the main pool offers stunning views while being spacious enough for everyone to find a prime chair.
This resort frequently hosts events, which can lead to busier restaurants and pools, as well as increased noise between rooms.
Having stayed at various hotels in Scottsdale, this one might just be my top choice for a family getaway. Nestled on 125 acres between Mummy and Camelback Mountains in Paradise Valley, its location is ideal—far from the hustle of Old Town yet close enough to easily explore all major attractions. It's the perfect base whether you’re here to golf, unwind at the spa, or entertain the kids.
The resort features 453 roomy casitas and suites, all equipped with spacious patios, cozy beds, and a blend of Southwest and midcentury decor. Upgraded accommodations come with sun decks, private pools, and separate living spaces—definitely where I plan to stay on my next visit. I thoroughly enjoyed the expansive Jackrabbit pool, complete with a waterfall, ample lounge chairs, an on-site cafe, and designated pools for children and adults.
I also indulged in a relaxing massage at the expansive 32,000-square-foot Spa at Camelback Inn, which boasts an adults-only pool, wet and dry saunas, a whirlpool, relaxation lounges with outdoor terraces, a fitness center, boutique, and restaurant.
My kids had a blast, too, thanks to a playground on-site and an Old West-themed area featuring faux storefronts like an apothecary, saloon, and bank, all next to picnic tables. The property also offers trailheads leading to several short hiking paths, and Camelback Mountain is practically right across the street.
A charming lodge-style lobby opens up to several on-site amenities, including a bar, Starbucks, boutique, upscale steakhouse, and a Mexican restaurant. We enjoyed meals and live music in the courtyard there. Additional offerings include access to multiple golf courses, a second gym, fitness classes, tennis and pickleball courts, all with breathtaking views in every direction.
The Details:
- Location: Paradise Valley
- Distance From Airport: 9 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Pet Policy: Two pets are allowed per room, with a non-refundable fee of $150.
- Resort Fee: $48 plus tax, covering fitness center access, bike rentals, a driving range, tennis court with racquets and balls, Wi-Fi, and more.
- Parking: Both valet and self-parking are included.
- Accessibility: The hotel features various accessible amenities, including entrances to public areas like the pool, and guest rooms equipped with shower and toilet rails, adjustable height showerheads, and lower amenities.
- Rates: Start at $224
The Hermosa Inn
Courtesy of Hermosa InnWhile Scottsdale boasts many sprawling resorts brimming with amenities and bustling crowds, this charming boutique inn offers a welcome alternative for those seeking a more personal experience.
This hotel’s boutique nature makes it ideal for couples and adults desiring a tranquil getaway, rather than families looking for endless activities.
Not everyone prefers the glitz of a grand resort packed with pools, dining options, and a schedule full of activities. Even some of Scottsdale’s most serene spa retreats can host 100 to 200 guests.
In contrast, Hermosa Inn presents an intimate sanctuary featuring just 43 Hacienda-style rooms, a serene pool, a AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, and picturesque gardens.
Originally opened in the 1930s by cowboy artist Alonzo "Lon" Megargee, this historic property showcases his artwork throughout the inn. It now features Santa Fe-style adobe buildings surrounded by vibrant gardens adorned with turquoise highlights and soothing fountains.
The accommodations vary from standard rooms at 350 square feet to spacious casitas of 750 square feet, with many featuring Kiva fireplaces, private patios, walk-in showers or soaking tubs, warm wood finishes, elegant four-poster beds, and oversized leather chairs. Additional offerings include a small gym, biking and walking paths, art classes, and special dining experiences.
The Details:
- Location: Paradise Valley
- Distance From Airport: 9 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: None.
- Pet Policy: Dogs up to 50 pounds are accepted for an extra $100 non-refundable fee per stay.
- Resort Fee: $35 plus tax, covering valet parking, Wi-Fi, a daily newspaper, local and long-distance calls, a computer workstation in the lobby, fitness center access, bike rentals (helmets and water bottles included), and refreshments in the room; lobby snacks include coffee, tea, fruit, pastries in the morning, and cookies in the afternoon.
- Parking: Valet parking is included in the resort fee.
- Accessibility: The hotel features two ADA-compliant rooms, Rancho and Deluxe Casita, equipped with wide doorways, ramps, handrails/grab bars, and roll-in showers.
- Rates: Start at $270
The Phoenician, A Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
Courtesy of The PhoenicianThis AAA Five Diamond resort caters to both luxury seekers and families in search of fun activities, as well as golfers eager to hit the links.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes; the resort is sprawling, featuring 645 rooms along with its sister property, The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician.
The Phoenician is hard not to love. Discerning travelers will enjoy the upscale hospitality that permeates the expansive 250-acre resort, while families are drawn to its splash pads, waterslides, and engaging activities for children.
Rooms begin at 600 square feet, complete with balconies, luxurious beds dressed in Frette linens, and marble bathrooms. The suites feel like spacious living areas at 1,200 square feet. While the generously sized rooms are a major highlight, the real attraction is the resort itself.
The resort features nine pools, including a tranquil adults-only area and a multi-tiered pool adorned with real mother of pearl. Kids will have a blast in the splash zone, complete with a treehouse, bridge, and a ship-shaped play area equipped with spray guns, water spouts, sails, and a helm. Plus, there are thrilling water slides to enjoy.
However, this isn't just a chaotic resort filled with children. While they are present, the resort also attracts spa enthusiasts seeking relaxation in a 37,000-square-foot facility that offers both wet and dry saunas, a vitality hot tub, and indulgent treatments such as Himalayan salt stone rituals, wellness scrubs, luxury facials, and massages. After your spa experience, relax on a chair by the rooftop pool or treat yourself to a blowout or pedicure at the on-site Drybar salon.
In addition to the pools, the resort boasts nine restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, several boutiques, and a variety of seasonal activities including dueling pianos, wine and beer tastings, art history and bike tours, painting and craft classes, jewelry making, dive-in movies by the pool, and even opportunities to meet mermaids.
The Details:
- Location: Old Town
- Distance From Airport: 8 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
- Pet Policy: Two dogs under 40 pounds are allowed with a fee of $150.
- Resort Fee: $50 plus tax, covering Wi-Fi, yoga, tennis and pickleball court access and racquets, bicycle rentals, and daily craft beer tastings.
- Parking: Valet parking is $40 per night, while self-parking costs $28 per night.
- Accessibility: The hotel offers various accessible features, including entrances to the hotel, pool, rooms, and restaurants, as well as in-room amenities like roll-in showers with rails, lowered handles and outlets, wheelchair-height toilets with grab rails, and more.
- Rates: Start at $343
The Global Ambassador
Courtesy of The Global AmbassadorThis stunning hotel combines boutique charm with luxurious indulgence, brought to life by a celebrated restaurateur.
The atmosphere is distinctly adult-oriented. During my visit with children, we felt somewhat out of place in such a stylish, upscale environment. Although there's no formal dress code, most guests embrace the opportunity to dress elegantly, aligning with the hotel's aesthetic of sophistication and grace.
While technically located in Phoenix, this hotel sits at the intersection of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley, just under 5 miles from downtown Scottsdale. It narrowly misses being classified as Scottsdale, but overlooking it due to its address would be a missed opportunity.
The Global Ambassador was among the most eagerly awaited luxury hotels in the region prior to its opening at the end of 2023, and it has certainly lived up to the excitement.
Led by renowned restaurateur Sam Fox in his first foray into hospitality, this 141-room hotel is a masterpiece, with every detail curated by Fox and Judith Testani from Testani Design Troupe, who has also worked on many of Fox’s restaurants.
Upon checking in shortly after its spring 2024 opening, I was left in awe. The property was pristine, from the gleaming lobby to the vibrant Barbiecore pool, and a rooftop space designed for socializing that offers stunning views of the entire valley.
Room options vary primarily by their views. I stayed in a mid-tier Camelback Two Queen Room, featuring a direct sightline to Camelback Mountain and a larger balcony compared to standard accommodations. It felt like a chic pied-à-terre, complete with hardwood floors, carefully curated original art, and luxurious bathrooms with walk-in showers, Byredo toiletries, and marble details. I was especially impressed by the mini bar, which boasted high-end Augustinus Bader and Supergoop products (a nod to the spa treatments available), along with inventive, ready-to-drink cocktails.
Dining is a standout feature, especially with the 12-time James Beard award nominee, Fox, at the helm. The lobby houses a casual French bistro-style market for quick coffee and pastries, complemented by an upscale French steakhouse. A chic lobby bar adds to the experience, along with the rooftop bar and restaurant, theà, which offers a sun-drenched setting and an elevated Mediterranean menu. During my weekend visit, locals flocked to secure tables inside theà, on the patio, or at the turquoise-tiled outdoor bar, where a DJ was providing lively entertainment. It's as much a hotspot for locals as it is for hotel guests.
Additionally, there's Pink Dolphin, a laid-back bar with pool views; a thoughtfully curated boutique featuring designer goods; a 19,000-square-foot fitness center with group classes; and a spa that exclusively offers Augustinus Bader products in Arizona, incorporating treatments from the French brand Biologique Recherche.
The Details:
- Location: Northeast Phoenix
- Distance From Airport: 6 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
- Loyalty Programs: I Prefer
- Pet Policy: Two dogs with a maximum combined weight of 75 pounds are allowed for a flat fee of $100.
- Resort Fee: $35 plus tax, covering Wi-Fi, pool access and towels, fitness center and classes, plus in-room amenities like Dyson hair dryers and nightly turndown service.
- Parking: Valet parking is offered for $35 per night, with an additional paid private parking garage adjacent to the hotel.
- Accessibility: Seven ADA-compliant rooms are available, one for each room category, featuring roll-in showers among other amenities.
- Rates: Start at $240
Know Before You Go
Don't forget your sunscreen
With approximately 330 days of sunshine each year, Scottsdale is usually hot and dry, even during the relatively mild winters. Therefore, it's essential to pack, apply, and reapply sunscreen frequently. A hat is also a good idea, and staying hydrated is crucial, especially while hiking and engaging in outdoor activities.
Winter can be chillier than anticipated, and summer is extremely hot
Situated in the desert, Scottsdale often surprises visitors with its colder temperatures. In December and January, average highs reach the high 60s Fahrenheit—pleasant, but perhaps not ideal for swimming. With nighttime lows dipping into the 30s, mornings and evenings can be quite brisk, so dress accordingly. In contrast, summer temperatures can soar to around 105 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, making outdoor activities challenging; it's best to stick to the pool and air conditioning during this season.
The best rates can be found during the shoulder seasons
To find the best hotel deals, consider visiting during early winter or peak summer, as most travelers prefer warm and pleasant weather. This timing not only offers better rates but also means fewer crowds and less traffic.
Think about renting a car
Scottsdale spans 31 miles from north to south and covers 184.5 square miles, making reliable transportation essential, especially if you intend to hike or venture beyond the city. While rideshare options like Lyft or Uber are available, the costs can accumulate quickly, and securing a ride in more remote areas can be challenging. Unless you plan to stay within your resort or are within walking distance of Old Town, renting a car is your best bet.
Our Selection Process for These Hotels
Dinogo contributor Emily Hochberg is a seasoned travel and lifestyle writer and editor with extensive experience reviewing hotels worldwide. Residing in Southern California, just a few hours from Scottsdale, she has spent significant time in the city’s hotels, including over half of those featured on this list. She is also well-acquainted with the others from her visits to the area.
To identify the top hotels in Scottsdale, she drew from her personal experiences at various properties, thoroughly reviewed the full range of available accommodations, and included well-regarded favorites, T+L award winners, and resorts highly rated by previous guests. Important criteria included location—prioritizing hotels within a mile of major attractions—and amenities such as multiple pools, excellent spas and golf courses, close proximity to Old Town, impressive room offerings, quality dining, and a variety of guest activities. Additionally, she focused on reputable hospitality brands known for their commitment to excellence and ensured a range of starting prices to cater to different budgets.
Lastly, as with all our hotel recommendations, editors verify that every suggestion meets our essential T+L Hotel Values.
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Evaluation :
5/5