The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Tucson, Arizona

With its mountainous backdrop, Tucson has a must-see skyline | © Sean Pavone / Alamy Stock Photo

29 November 2021

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Cacti, cattle drives and canyons aren’t the only draw in Tucson. Venture into this end of the desert, and you’ll have your fill of creative arts. Galleries, museums and theaters fill the spaces between natural wonders and Southwestern spirit. Such vibrance doesn’t require a dramatic budget either; you can do Tucson without taking out a loan. Stay at these cheap hotels in Tucson, and see this side of the Southwest without overspending.

Comfort Suites at Sabino Canyon, for quality canine time

Courtesy of Sabino Canyon / Expedia

Don’t go broke bringing Buster on your holiday; stay at Comfort Suites, where pets are always welcome. This cheap pet-friendly hotel at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains will treat you all to a comfortable, cost-cutting stay. The Udall Dog Park is right across the street for no-cost canine fun; your fun awaits at the outdoor pool and hot tub. Take an afternoon together to cuddle up in your suite, or hike the trails around the city.

Hotel McCoy, for the real deal

Courtesy of Hotel McCoy / Expedia

Hotel McCoy serves up old-school nightly rates to go with its vintage vibes. This 1960s motel is a mini-gallery for local art, with more than fifty murals beautifying the common spaces and rooms. There’s also an onsite bookstore, a saltwater pool, an outdoor theatre, yard games and the longest oatmeal bar in the world: talk about a bang for your buck. Plus, your room has a retro fridge, and that’s a priceless perk that adds another layer of cool to the real Hotel McCoy.

Aloft Tucson University, for a stylish stay

Illuminated terrace at Aloft Tucson University

Courtesy of Aloft Tucson University / Expedia

Aloft is an absolutely affordable place to lay your head when visiting the University of Arizona or exploring the city. Re:mix, their public hangout space, is the hot spot for meeting new people, connecting with fellow Wildcats or simply enjoying a budget-friendly night in. You’ll love the outdoor pool, complete with trendy sun loungers and shaded sofas.

County Inn & Suites by Radisson, Tucson Airport, AZ, for the little pick-me-ups

Outside view of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Tucson Airport, AZ

Courtesy of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Tucson Airport, AZ / Expedia | Courtesy of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Tucson Airport, AZ / Expedia

Free cookies and coffee might not sound like much, but, combined with a free breakfast at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, you’ve got yourself the energy necessary to hike through Tucson Mountain Park. Early check-in is another complimentary bonus that pays big dividends for anyone who wants to get some extra shut-eye without spending any extra dough. Pocket a cookie for the road; it’ll taste great when you’re gazing at Gates Pass.

Residence Inn by Marriott Tucson Airport, for getting your game on

Outdoor pool at dusk, with the main building of the Residence Inn by Marriott Tucson Airport in the background

Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott Tucson Airport / Expedia

Searching for a way to burn daylight without burning up your budget? Burn some energy at Residence Inn by Marriott. This extended-stay hotel will help you keep your physical and financial health in check with its 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool and sport court. Volleyball, basketball, tennis and more are yours to play without pay. With so many calories burned every day, you’ll be thankful that the morning breakfast buffet is also yours to savor without spending a dime.

Hilton Garden Inn Tucson Airport, for access to the airport

The Hilton Garden Inn Tucson Airport and its driveway under a blue sky

Courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn Tucson Airport / Expedia

Don’t worry about spending money on a rental car when you stay at Hilton Garden Inn; its free shuttle will take you anywhere within 2.5 miles (4km) of your guest room. If you reserve the king room, you’ll already have road snacks and drinks on hand. Have the shuttle cruise you around the neighborhood so you can scope out the fast-food joints, public parks and discount stores to help keep your budget reined in.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tucson Airport, for aviation enthusiasts

Palm-lined outdoor pool at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tucson Airport

Courtesy of TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tucson Airport / Expedia

Fly in on a coach ticket, but receive a first-class stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott. This airport-adjacent hotel hooks you up with more than just free peanuts and a small cup of soda. The free breakfast and complimentary airport shuttle immediately save you a solid $20 (£15) or more per day. Flight-inspired fun won’t require you to upgrade your budget to business class; simply head over to the Airplane Boneyard or the Pima Air & Space Museum.

Staybridge Suites Tucson Airport, an IHG Hotel, for cheap eating

Terracotta-colored facade of the Staybridge Suites Tucson Airport, an IHG Hote

Courtesy of Staybridge Suites Tucson Airport, an IHG Hotel / Expedia

Anyone who’s ever set foot in an airport knows just how expensive the terminal can be, which is why Staybridge Suites tries hard to keep some coin in your pocket. Breakfast and evening reception will keep two of your three daily meals cash-free. This all-suite property has a kitchen in every unit, which means a cheap lunch is only a grilled cheese away. Feel free to load up your luggage with cheap snacks from the convenience store, too, if you’d rather not spend another night’s rate on bottled water and candy at the airport.

Courtyard by Marriott Tucson Williams Centre, for frugal families

Palm-lined outdoor pool at the Marriott Tucson Williams Centre

Courtesy of Courtyard by Marriott Tucson Williams Centre / Expedia

Let’s talk about a low-key, low-priced family vacation, starting with cheap hotels in Tucson like the Courtyard by Marriott. The outdoor pool is a given; what kid wouldn’t want to spend all day diving? The larger guest room and one-bedroom suites give a little extra room that can easily be used for board games, coloring and anything else your kids’ imagination can create. For a free or almost-free afternoon out, the playgrounds, sports parks and zoo at Reid Park will do the trick.

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