The Best Hotels to Book in Phoenix, Arizona

A member of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, this hotel in Phoenix is located in the upscale Biltmore Area. Quirky touches abound: the lamps in the rooms shaped like cow skulls are reminiscent of Georgia O’Keeffe paintings, and some of the topiaries dotted around the hotel grounds may leave your pooch rather perplexed. If the on-site restaurants don’t strike your fancy – although they should: the burger is out of this world – there are plenty of eateries in the area; and don’t forget to check out the views from the rooftop pool.

The Lon Megargee paintings and sculptures everywhere are a nod to the fact that the artist originally built this property – some 10mi (16km) from Downtown Phoenix – as his private retreat, back in the 1930s. You can spend the whole day exploring the grounds and finding the little artistic details or admiring the colors: from the abundant flowers to the cocktails. Plus, how many Phoenix hotels can say that they also host regular art workshops for the guests? Perfect for when inspiration strikes.

There’s something about this pet-friendly Phoenix hotel that will make you want to put on a shirt with a pineapple motif and some heart-shaped sunglasses before ordering a highball in the rooftop bar. Maybe it’s the boozy popsicle you get upon checkin; maybe it’s the retro decor; maybe it’s the flamingo-pink foosball table; or maybe it’s the record player in your room, which comes complete with records you can actually play. Really, all you need is a 1957 Chevy Bel Air convertible parked out front.

Few hotels in Phoenix can boast a pool that blends so perfectly into the desert landscape and is oh so very inviting. This hotel is some 30mi (48km) north of Phoenix in Cave Creek, but you won’t miss the big-city lights: after playing a few rounds or pretending you’re an outlaw on a horseback trip, come back to a prickly pear and basil lemonade and food made with in-season, local ingredients – think saguaro fruit and cholla buds – at the on-site restaurant.

Resting atop Camelback Mountain, the Sanctuary overlooks all of Phoenix, boasting some of the best views in the valley. This 53 acre (21ha), five-star resort provides guests with ample opportunity to relax in the infinity pool and Asian-inspired spa, and exercise in the modern gym. Rooms are large and contemporary, with great vistas and a host of amenities. Guests can choose between casitas, suites and villas. Dine at the world-class restaurant – Elements – run by chef Beau MacMillan and then grab a nightcap at Jade Bar, where a wide range of cocktails are made from premium liquor and local, fresh ingredients.

With an intimate yet upscale feel, the Royal Palms has attracted big names, including George W Bush in 2004. The five-star resort is located a mere 3mi (5km) from Camelback Mountain and just a short drive from Old Town Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix. Rooms boast a quintessentially Southwestern vibe, and some even have fireplaces and patios. Along with the open-air Alvadora Spa, the Royal Palms’ restaurant is a real draw – T Cook’s features seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and has the perfect outdoor dining area for enjoying the beautiful Phoenix weather.

Since opening in 1936, Camelback Inn – sandwiched between the Camelback and Mummy mountains – has been a favorite desert escape. This resort provides guests with comfortable rooms that feature a combination of Southwestern decor and private balconies and patios. Camelback Inn offers up some of the finest amenities in the valley, including fire pits, numerous pools, 36 holes of golf across two courses and a highly acclaimed spa. For a delicious steak and famous pop-overs, try the BLT steak at the hotel, and for some wonderful and creative tapas, go to Rita’s Cantina, where guests can enjoy live music on most nights.

One of the most well-known hotels in Phoenix, the Phoenician has long set the bar of luxury for all other hotels in the valley. Between the unbeatable setting, elegant and well-furnished rooms, 18-hole championship golf course and the $25 million (£19 million) art collection on-site, it’s easy to see why. This five-star resort provides friendly service, a helpful concierge and a number of opportunities to explore the Phoenix area. The Phoenician is also a part of the Starwood Preferred Guest loyalty program, which can save guests a bit on the tab.

Like most W Hotels across the world, the atmosphere here is trendy and young, as are many of the guests. With a popular rooftop pool scene, which attracts out-of-towners and locals alike, and the swanky Living Room lounge – which is regularly equipped with DJs and cocktail hours – it’s easy to see why this hotel has become such a hotspot. The eclectic decor and modern amenities are topped by only one thing: the location. Right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this hotel is both central and convenient, allowing guests to walk (in the cooler months, of course) to nearby restaurants, bars and clubs. And for those looking to dine within, Sushi Roku serves up the best Japanese food in the valley within minimalist surroundings.

The most historic hotel in the valley, the Biltmore has been welcoming illustrious visitors – including Marilyn Monroe – since 1929. Built by disciples of Frank Lloyd Wright, the hotel has held onto the Gilded Age feel throughout the years – as made clear by the luxurious lobby, decked out with hardwood floors and illuminated by subtle lighting. The never-ending green spaces at the hotel, with Camelback Mountain in the background, make for the perfect stroll with a view; and the exceptional golf courses, seven tennis courts and award-winning spa make for the perfect R&R destination. The four restaurants at the hotel – including the Wright Bar and Frank & Albert’s – are go-to spots even for those staying elsewhere.