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The Best Hotels to Book Near the Phoenix Raceway, Arizona

If you enjoy motorsports, put the Phoenix Raceway on your must-visit list
If you enjoy motorsports, put the Phoenix Raceway on your must-visit list | © Zoonar GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo

Trek remote trails at sunrise, explore downtown Phoenix in the morning and spend the afternoon experiencing the racing action at the Phoenix Raceway before sipping a cocktail by the pool as twilight falls.

Phoenix residents used horse-drawn streetcars and, later, electric streetcars before automobiles took their place in 1948. Today, Avondale, near Phoenix, is home to a 1mi (1.6km) tri-oval racetrack, where you can hear roaring V8s and smell burning rubber. Thanks to its proximity to the Sonoran Desert, Arizona’s capital abounds with attractions and hotels. Here’s our pick of the best – bookable on Culture Trip.

The Wigwam

Suite Hotel

The Wigwam
Courtesy of The Wigwam / Expedia

Set amid palm trees in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the Wigwam is an oasis of luxury. Incredibly spacious, carpeted suites feature jacuzzi tubs and firepits, and the rustic charm of rich woods and warm colors make the atmosphere super homey. Noble casitas on the 440-acre (178ha) complex are conveniently placed around outdoor pools, restaurants, a spa and more – sports fiends can let off some steam on the tennis courts or golf courses. Complete with a gym, a business center and a bar, this four-star hotel is a full-on liveable resort.

Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel and Spa

Spa Hotel

Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel and Spa
Courtesy of Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel and Spa / Expedia

Sandwiched between Westgate Entertainment District and the State Farm Stadium, this Renaissance is a spa paradise. Whether you’re sweating in the steam room or getting pampering massages and beauty treatments, relaxation enthusiasts get their money’s worth. Kick back in the whirlpool, swim laps in the indoor and outdoor heated pools, exercise on the treadmill around the clock, or sip cocktails at the sunset-inspired lobby bar or courtyard. Earth-tone colors and woods characterize the roomy, carpeted suites overlooking the stadium.

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix

Suite Hotel

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix
Courtesy of Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix / Expedia

In the heart of downtown Phoenix – steps from Chase Field and shopping havens – this Kimpton was voted the fifth best hotel in the southwest by Condé Nast Traveler in 2019. People love working on their tan at the sun-kissed rooftop pool, complete with recliners and a lounge – perfect for sipping that tasty sundowner. Averaging more than 600sqft (56sqm), Kimpton’s urban suites are among the most spacious in the city center and feature deep-soaking tubs, yoga mats and essential oil diffusers. There’s a gym, and the hosted social hours guarantee you’ll meet new people.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa

Resort, Hotel

Stunning infinity pool with palm trees and a desert rock backdrop at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa in Phoenix
Courtesy of Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa / Expedia
Embedded within Camelback Mountain, this Scottsdale hotel boasts unparalleled views of Paradise Valley – a wedding haven second to none. Giant casitas, suites and villas have carpeted, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, polished maple furnishings and flowing curtains, adding to the chic look. The patio casita is a favorite; it’s near the Asian-inspired spa and gym, surrounded by a meditation garden where pilates and yoga classes take place. Tennis courts, an outdoor pool, soaking tubs and dinners under the stars complete this unrivaled deluxe experience.

Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix West/Avondale

Inn

Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix West Avondale
Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix West/Avondale / Expedia

Almost as though it was looking to corroborate a secure feel, this hotel entrance – with its rough-hewn natural stone wall – sets the tone of this modern inn, just west of downtown Phoenix. Grand pillars, laminate floors and comfy lobby chairs and couches make the atmosphere homey, but the Residence Inn also caters to business travelers. The large bright rooms have well-lit desks and pleather sofas, and there’s an on-site business center. The 24-hour gym overlooks the barbecue terrace with a firepit, while next door is the outdoor pool.

Hampton Inn and Suites Phoenix Glendale/Westgate

Business Hotel, Inn

Hampton Inn and Suites - Glendale Westgate
Courtesy of Hampton Inn and Suites Phoenix Glendale/Westgate / Expedia

With its natural stone porch entrance and surrounding palm trees, this Hampton Inn off Loop 101 – steps from Westgate Entertainment District – conveys a holiday feel. Inside, you’ll find an event space, a business center and a snack bar selling Glendale treats to get you through your meetings. Ivory shades dominate each carpeted room, which also has a fridge, a microwave and a flat-screen TV. Tired of shopping sprees? Wind down in the outdoor pool with a spillover spa, or cozy up by the natural stone fireplace in the lobby.

Red Lion Inn and Suites Goodyear Phoenix

Suite Hotel

Red Lion Inn and Suites Goodyear Phoenix W
Courtesy of Red Lion Inn and Suites Goodyear Phoenix / Expedia

Off the main drag of downtown Phoenix, Goodyear’s Red Lion is a cut above most three-star hotels. Less than 1mi (1.6km) from local eateries, the pet-friendly, smoke-free inn welcomes you with a natural stone porch entrance and lush vegetation. Plenty of wood in the lobby and the jumbo-size, carpeted suites give the place a rustic charm, and landscape pictures reignite the travel bug. Facilities include a 24-hour gym, a business center and an outdoor pool. All rooms come with cable TV and complimentary local calls. Not a morning person? Sleep in as check-out is at noon.

Hidden Oasis 3 BR by Casago

Hotel

Hidden Oasis 3 BR by Casago
Courtesy of Hidden Oasis 3 BR by Casago / Expedia

Hidden in a quiet cul-de-sac in Arrowhead Ranch, this non-smoking vacation home is a mini-oasis amid a barren landscape. As the start-off point for hikes in the Thunderbird Conservation Park, it’s also popular with those who want to relax. Enjoy mountain views on the patio, unwind in the outdoor saltwater pool and tub, or soak up the sun on a recliner. Love barbecues? There’s a backyard featuring a gas grill and benches. The primary bedroom boasts warm colors, an ensuite with a walk-in shower with two heads and natural light that you can block out with window coverings.

For more excellently located stays, see the best hotels near Phoenix Sky Harbor International Aiport, bookable now through Culture Trip. See where to go shopping in Phoenix, then unwind in one of the best restaurants in town before sampling the manic nightlife.

About the author

Philipp Meier is a Phuket-based travel writer with a passion for Thai culture. His work has been published on the South China Morning Post, BootsnAll.com, GoNOMAD.com, Motorcycle Sport and Leisure Magazine, among others.

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