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Why Phoenix?
Growing up in Phoenix the summer heat never really bothered me, but now going back, I understand why people are confused by my love of the city when they step outside to 120 degrees. However, if you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the pool in the summer, or escape the cold in spring and winter, this is the best destination. From hiking to golf to baseball to the best Mexican food, everyone can find something to enjoy in the Phoenix area.
Resorts
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch
At the time of this writing this resort is still undergoing an extensive remodel, but they have already started opening up some areas. The pool is brand new and no doubt will be an excellent place for the family to relax. In addition they hope to reopen the rock climbing walls and putting green in the near future. This resort boasts tennis and pickleball and bike rentals for those who wish to be active. For kids there are countless daily activities like sunglasses decorating and hair braiding, and nightly smores. This resort previously hosted gondoliers but I have not seen evidence of them returning since the remodel. But keep your eye out because it is a truly unique experience!
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge
The first time I stepped foot on this property, I was in Junior High and I immediately was in love with the luxury of it all. This resort is well kept and consistently touted as one of the best in the Phoenix area. From the sprawling pool complex and waterpark, to the multitude of eating options, to the brand new pickleball courts, this resort has a whole lot to offer. They also consistently have remarkable holiday events with lots of fanfare.
Arizona Grand
This hotel is harder to book with points, but it can be booked through the Chase travel portal, using your Chase Sapphire Preferred $50 travel credit on a cash night, or using your Chase points to pay for the room. As with the previous hotels, the waterpark is the real draw of this hotel. They have two towering slides that I refuse to go near, but for the adventure seeker, they are perfect!
Airport Hotels
Hyatt Place Tempe/Phoenix Airport
This hotel is bookable with Hyatt points, or transferring Chase points to Hyatt. With an airport shuttle, this is a very easy place to crash for the night before or after a flight. You are also really close to the Tempe Beach Park which is a great area to catch a bite or walk around and enjoy the sunshine or a quick paddle boat ride.
Residence Inn by Marriott – Phoenix Airport
With an airport shuttle and reasonable Marriott points price per night, this hotel hits the spot. Its approximately one exit away from the airport, and includes a free breakfast, laundry access, and a spacious room. This would probably be my choice if I needed an airport hotel because I just love Marriott but I also like the location of this hotel. It is surrounded by airport hotels so if these choices here don’t hit the spot for you, check out this one one google maps and look at the other options available.
Home2Suites by Hilton Phoenix Airport North
This hotel is clean and modern with a decent breakfast available in the morning. Honestly, in traveling with family, breakfast is one of the determining hotel factors. Feeding 5 people every meal of the day adds up, and if I can get that curbed even a small amount, I’m in. The rooms also look pretty spacious with the one king bed and one pull out couch bed. One nice thing about Hilton, if you need more space, the website makes it really easy to select connecting rooms when booking.
Beyond Phoenix
These fun hotels are easily drivable from the Phoenix area and show you a few different parts of my home state.
Hyatt Vacation Club at Pinon Pointe
This hotel sits in the center of beautiful Sedona. This is the home of the Red Rocks and something everyone who dreams of Arches National Park or Slot Canyons will love to see. The hiking is plentiful, the weather is much cooler, and the shopping is fun! This hotel has a cute studio room with a Queen bed and a pull out sofa that can get you to this gorgeous oasis for just 12,000 points per night. That’s a bargain! And if the heat does catch up with you, their stellar pool will cool you off in a heartbeat.
El Conquistador by Hilton
This upscale beauty hosts a great laser light show at Fourth of July every year, and holds special memories for me. The food, the pools, the golf course, the decor, this hotel truly feels like you are in a luxury desert hotel, tucked away into the foothills of Tucson. You are close to upscale shopping, as well as a plethora of hiking trails, making this area truly a getaway for everyone. This is a great pick for a desert escape in the middle of winter.
JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass
This hotel borders Saguaro National Park and the views do not disappoint. A multitude of pools with a lazy river will ensure the kids enjoy their stay. As with any good Arizona resort, there is lots of golf. This hotel is bordered by THREE golf courses, with the top course designed by Arnold Palmer himself. You are also spitting distance from Old Tucson, an Old West movie set that is now its own sort of Old West theme park.
Conclusion
Arizona is an outdoor playground specializing in hiking, desert views, golf, baseball, and patio eating, there is truly something for everyone. While you may not be keen to fight the 120 degree temperatures in July, a winter or spring trip here will fill you up on sunshine and have you refreshed to await summer. I hope you enjoy the desert as much as I do!
