The Best Resorts To Book In Tucson Arizona

When it comes to planning a Vitamin-D-filled holiday in the Grand Canyon State, those who opt for Tucson – Arizona’s second city – will be rewarded with dramatic mountains peppered with Saguaro cacti, peaceful environs and a downtown brimming with young energy, thanks to a large student population at the University of Arizona. It may be hard to leave the resort premises at all with so many on-site amenities in the form of golf courses, tennis courts, pools and spas – capped off with epic desert sunsets, perhaps best enjoyed with a margarita in hand. Read on for the best resorts in Tucson, bookable on Culture Trip.

1. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, for mountain views

Resort, Spa Hotel

Spacious king bedroom with sitting area and balcony with desert views at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson

Right up against the Catalina Mountains, this contemporary resort capitalizes on vistas from two pool areas (one for adults only) and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the two Tom Fazio-designed golf courses and four lighted tennis courts. When hungry, fill up on dishes made from locally sourced ingredients at the rustic Flying V Bar & Grill, where you can order guacamole to be prepared at your table by the guacamoliere (guacamole expert), or head to the Canyon Café, serving dishes like prime rib enchilada dip and chipotle cheddar mac and cheese. After the sun goes down, sip a glass of tamarind sangria at the Cascade Lounge while listening to live music. Get a workout in the morning at the fitness center – or drive to Sabino Canyon for hiking trails and tram rides.

2. JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, for saguaro cactus treatments

Resort

Get ready to walk at this enormous, upscale resort next to Tucson Mountain Park with easy access to hiking trails. Golfers will love the Arnold Palmer-designed golf courses with 27 holes, and there’s watery family fun on offer at the multi-level pool and lazy river. On-site restaurants utilize produce from the organic garden and feature Southwestern flavors, like queso fondue and chili-crusted tuna steaks washed down with seasonal sangrias. Daily mindfulness rituals include a Native-American-inspired sage burning at sunrise, while the adults-only Hashani Spa uses healing elements from the Saguaro cactus in its treatments.

3. The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, for family-friendly fun

Resort

In the foothills of the Catalina Mountains, this resort in Tucson has all the signature amenities that Westin fans expect, plus a whole slew of family-friendly perks. Gather together at the many outdoor pools – including one with a waterslide. When it’s time for some quiet time, mom and dad can leave their little ones at the kids’ club while they enjoy the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, body wraps, scrubs and couples’ massages at the spa, plus tennis courts, a fitness center and Olympic-sized pool with lap lanes. Head to the Contigo Latin Kitchen for flavors from Cuba, Spain and Mexico, where you can sample spicy grilled octopus and grass-fed churrasco – or sip an artisanal cocktail at the AZuL lounge.

5. Omni Tucson National Resort, for a peaceful desert retreat

Resort

Set amidst 650 acres (263ha) of golf course, this boutique-style resort offers a quiet, relaxing setting, and the elegant rooms come with seating areas, wood-beamed ceilings, leather furnishings and soaking tubs. The proximity to the golf course appeals to guests who’ve brought their clubs along, while those looking for a more relaxing time can book a signature Moonlit Merlot Antioxidant Facial at the spa. Other activities include an infinity pool, lighted tennis courts, plus group power walks and in-room workout kits. Staff will happily provide maps for nearby hiking and biking trails. Elegant rooms come with seating areas, and may include wood-beamed ceilings, leather furnishings and soaking tubs. Three restaurants include Bob’s Steak & Chophouse, serving prime “côte de boeuf” bone-in ribeyes along with a carefully curated wine list.

6. Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, for history buffs

Resort

For a Spanish Colonial vibe, you may want to consider this member of the Historic Hotels of America that once attracted celebs like John Wayne, Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. Rooms, suites and casitas come decked out in warm desert tones, some with woven rugs and wood-paneled or wood-beamed ceilings, while amenities include fireplaces and al fresco showers. Enjoy award-winning New American cuisine at the Grill, along with a wine list of more than 800 vintages. Sunday brunch is a popular affair featuring prime rib, seafood, omelets and waffles. Stay active with nearby horseback riding, hiking and golf – or relax at the pool and spa. You can also take a long walk around the landscaped grounds and enjoy interesting sculptures, art and photography on display.

7. Casino del Sol, for live entertainment and varied dining

Resort

Poker and blackjack enthusiasts will appreciate the casino at this Tucson resort in the desert, run by the Pascua Yaqui tribe. But there are other draws to staying here, such as the golf course, Desert Heat body packages at the Hiapsi Spa and an outdoor live entertainment venue attracting the likes of Earth, Wind and Fire and David Osmond. You can also relax by the pool in your own private cabana. Rooms come with Egyptian cotton linens and Keurig coffeemakers, while dining options include a dozen cafes and restaurants; try the homemade pastas made from the White Sonora wheat of the Yaqui lands at Bellissimo Ristorante Italiano.

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