Many believe that Scottsdale, Arizona is exclusive to the wealthy, upscale, or mature traveler. Well, that’s not entirely wrong since the eastern part of Maricopa County is filled with golf courses and luxury resorts. But that’s also not entirely true as The West’s Most Western Town has a lot more to offer. Home to more than 250,000 residents, the desert city is actually a destination with dozens of arts, food, outdoor adventures, and great vibes. It’s no wonder the downtown area is crammed with some of the best hotels in Scottsdale in Arizona.
With temperatures hitting 108 degrees F in early June, Scottsdale never gets super cold. This makes it perfect for a year-round destination. Plus, this beloved city of Arizona has many innovative restaurants, impressive cultural institutions, and natural charm. With a history dating back to 1894, you’ll also find different remarkable monuments and buildings in the Old Town area. So, are you ready to discover the best of ‘Beverly Hills of the Desert’? Stay here, because we will unveil some of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona!
Where to Stay in Scottsdale, Arizona
With an area of more than 180 sq mi, Scottsdale is a large city with tons of accommodation options. Choosing among the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona can definitely be quite overwhelming. The trick is to find the environment that best fits your style and budget.
Your first time to Scottsdale? Then there’s nothing better than staying in the Old Town area. This is a lively tourist district with a buzzing art scene. Here you can also find some great food. There’s Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor which serves up some of the city’s best sweet treats. Prefer something savory? Go straight to Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffle then.
When it comes to Arizona nightlife, nothing beats Downtown Scottsdale. Sitting north of Old Town, this area is filled with hip cafes, trendy restaurants, and yoga studios. Meanwhile, live music can be enjoyed at the Rusty Spur Saloon. If you love shopping, there’s Fashion Square, aka the state’s largest shopping mall. In case you need extra comfort, this is also the place where you can find some of the 11 best hotel pools in Scottsdale.
Traveling on a budget? South Scottsdale is a place where you can find lots of backpacker hostels and boutique hotels. This is also a great area where you can enjoy some outdoor activities. From hiking in Hole in the Rock, taking a leisurely stroll along Tempe Town Lake, to exploring the landscapes in Papago Park.
All right, enough for the quick brief. Without much further ado, let’s dive right into some of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona!
Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch
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If Scottsdale is the Beverly Hills of the desert, then Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gallery Ranch is the oasis! Located in Gainey Ranch, one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the city, this three-star accommodation provides all the comforts and amenities you need for a relaxing stay. Families especially will love staying here as the hotel boasts a residential-style kitchen and lush courtyards.
Spend a day at Sonesta Suits would be great because the hotel itself is an exciting attraction! Indulge in the array of leisure facilities provided. Take a leisurely walk to Gainey Village Health Club & Spa or just browse the shops in Gainey Village. Also, enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness center here. If you want to immerse yourself in luxury while in Arizona, then this is one of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona for you.
Open your day with American breakfast in the hotel dining area. After that, you can continue to start exploring around. Since Gainey Ranch is popular for golf, you might want to try a game or two on a nearby course. But if swinging a golf club isn’t for you, three miles from here’s the OdySea Aquarium. It’s the largest aquarium in the southwest and has a collection of more than 30 thousand animals. They have lots of special events and great exhibitions, so it would be a great idea to bring your family here.
Hyatt House Scottsdale Old Town
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Take a break from the busy life at the Hyatt House Scottsdale Old Town. Sitting in the Old Town district of Scottsdale, this three-star property offers a more serene and peaceful atmosphere. They have something for everyone, business travelers can stay productive, while families have a great vacation.
Have some relaxing moments using the heated pool and hot tub. If you need to stick with a routine, Hyatt House Scottsdale gets you covered with the 24-hour StayFit Hyatt Fitness Center. After that, socialize with family friends in the courtyard which is equipped with barbecue facilities and outdoor seating areas.
As for the rooms, you’ll get a DVD player, flat-screen cable TV, a fully-equipped kitchen, standard for best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona. As the morning approaches, head down to the area around the lobby for a continental breakfast. And don’t forget your cup of joe, because they’ve got some of the best coffee here!
Being in the heart of Old Town, Hyatt House Scottsdale Old Town offers easy access to a number of the city’s top destinations. The Continental Golf Course is only a five-minute drive from here, while the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is less than a mile away. Interested in the incredible local vegetation? About a 13-minute drive from here’s the Desert Botanical Garden, an area of 140 acres with a collection of more than 50,000 plants of which 379 are rare, threatened, or endangered.
3 Palms Hotel
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Considered a boutique hotel, this low-rise structure is actually quite charming. 3 Palms Hotel is something that you would define as the perfect summer vacation spot. They have a large outdoor pool, spa, rooftop sun deck, and fitness center. Business traveler? Don’t worry, you can also ‘have fun’ in the dedicated hotel business center.
Once you step into the lobby of the 3 Palms Hotel, you’ll feel a surprising yet intimate atmosphere. We especially really like the sandstone accents that they’re trying to highlight here. It blends well with crystalline granite as if to be a hint that you’re up for something special. All the rooms here are decorated with tasteful modern art, making them a great retreat as well as an entertainment center. As with most of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona, you’ll get cable TV with premium channels, stereo, refrigerator, and all the basics.
When it comes to location, the 3 Palms Hotel is no less impressive. It’s just two miles south of Old Town Scottsdale, where you can find hundreds of shops, top-tier restaurants, upscale bars, and galleries. If you fancy a disc golf game, Spinner’s Disc Golf is just a few steps away and they’ll have everything you need. Shopping? Well, traveling less than three miles will take you to Fashion Square Mall, the largest shopping mall in Arizona.
Hotel Adeline
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Infused with eclectic style, Hotel Adeline isn’t just another boutique hotel. As they claim, this is the perfect place to stay and play. Experience Scottsdale’s finest summer, as the hotel feature a swimming pool with a chill vibe. Get yourself laid back relaxing in the poolside lounge while enjoying some of your favorite cocktails. But since it can get quite hot around here, we highly recommend wearing sunscreen. In case you don’t have one, you may want to take a look at some of our recommendations for the 13 best sunscreens.
As for the rooms, we can say that the Hotel Adeline is excellent for four-star accommodation. You have a flat-screen TV with premium cable channels, a relaxing sitting area to unwind or entertain guests, and a private bathroom with free toiletries. And just like most of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona, wireless Internet access is also available for free here.
Work for those muscles even on vacation, as the hotel provides a special fitness room. After all that intense exercise, head to the dining area for some great American breakfasts. If that’s not enough for your fuel, the hotel gets you covered with an on-site restaurant serving great Mediterranean cuisine.
While we know indulging in the hotel’s leisure facilities is fun, you should definitely try taking a walk around as there are so many great things to experience around here. The stunning Old Town of Scottsdale is within a mile, as is the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. For you nature-loving, a 16-minute drive from here is Camelback Mountain. Located between Arcadia and Paradise Valley, it’s one of the most popular destinations for hiking and rock climbing in Arizona.
La Quinta by Wyndham Phoenix Scottsdale
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Have you ever wondered why Scottsdale is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of the desert? Well, you may find the answer while staying at La Quinta by Wyndham Phoenix Scottsdale. That’s because this three-star accommodation offers the gorgeous Sonoran Desert experience right before your very eyes! They also have easy access to the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, about a 16-minute drive away. Get a great break, the moment you land in The West’s Most Western Town!
Discover the best of Scottsdale, as the hotel provides a free shuttle for a five-mile radius. But before starting exploring, make sure to enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the lobby area, which includes waffles, fresh fruit, and more. You’ll obviously need a lot of energy because there’s a lot to see around here! Find miles of trail in the scenic Echo Canyon Recreation Area. Get some great golf games, as Silverado Golf Club is only 15 minutes’ drive away. Shopping will also be fun, especially if you’re traveling with your family. Just drive for 20 minutes and before you know it, you’ll arrive at Paradise Valley Mall.
As for the rooms, La Quinta by Wyndham Phoenix Scottsdale doesn’t disappoint at all. All are non-smoking and most feature desks, ironing facilities, high definition flat-screen TVs, and most importantly coffee makers. Stay connected because, like any other best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona, WiFi internet connection is free throughout properties. Not in the mood to leave the room? Then why not indulge in the hotel’s outdoor pool or bathtub? Have a great relaxing time in one of the most complete accommodations in Arizona.
Motel 6-Scottsdale AZ
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There’s nothing embarrassing about staying at a budget hotel. In fact, you can save all that money for food, experiences, and other more essential things on a vacation. And for precisely this reason, the Motel 6 Scottsdale AZ will be your best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona old town.
If you don’t mind missing the complimentary breakfast and outdoor pool, Motel 6 is actually a pretty good place to stay. This three-star property has tidy rooms, all come with a private bathroom and soft beds. For some relaxing moments, you can spend time in the hot tub or hotel terrace. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a portable modem or something, because the motel doesn’t provide WiFi. It’s a shame, but hey, what do you expect?
But that doesn’t mean everything is doomed and glooms here. When it comes to location, Motel 6 is the perfect launchpad, especially if it’s your first time to Scottsdale. The charming Old Town of Scottsdale is less than a mile away. Meanwhile, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and Shemer Art Center is only a ten-minute drive. It should be a haven for culture vultures. But if you’re traveling with family, visiting Phoenix Zoo is highly recommended. There’s a baby in your party? Well, you may want to check out some of our recommendations for the 13 best strollers for travel. It’ll make the situation a little more hassle-free.
Best Western Plus Scottsdale Thunderbird Suites
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Planning a shopping getaway in Scottsdale? Then the Best Western Plus Scottsdale Thunderbird Suites would be the perfect place to visit. It’s only about two blocks from the Kierland Commons, the lifestyle hub in Phoenix, Arizona. You’ll find hundreds of retail stores in the destination which began construction in 1995.
The moment you set foot in the lobby, the warm and friendly atmosphere and smiling faces of the local staff will welcome you. All of that is just a tip of the many special things that await you at Best Western Plus Scottsdale Thunderbird Suites. Enjoy a hearty breakfast in the lobby area every morning. Keep in shape because the hotel has a 24-hour fitness center. For some relaxing moments, indulge yourself in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool and bathtub.
When it comes to guest rooms, Thunderbird provides accommodation with some thoughtful amenities. You get a microwave, refrigerator, and a 32-inch flat-screen TV. And since we couldn’t function properly without a cup of java in the morning, we’re really grateful the hotel provided a coffee machine. Oh, and if you need to entertain guests or a few friends, each unit already features a separate living room. WiFi is also available for free throughout the property, as are most of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona.
Save yourself from the hassle of keeping track of public transport schedules or calculating taxi fares, as Thunderbird provides free shuttles for a five-mile radius. We highly recommend stopping by WestWorld of Scottsdale, or WestWorld for short. This 386-acre venue is often used to hold multi-events, ranging from conventions, trade shows, equities, and many more. If you’re looking for some of the best entertainment in Scottsdale, this is the place to be.
Holiday Inn Scottsdale North-Airpark
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Let yourself step away for a moment from the tiring routine. Refresh your mind and be inspired at Holiday Inn & Suites Scottsdale North-Airpark. Surrounded by the beautiful landscape of Sonoran Desert, this three-star property offers a chill atmosphere in a pleasant urban setting.
Created with a contemporary design in mind, Holiday Inn & Suites Scottsdale North-Airpark is your main gateway to some of the most exciting indoor and outdoor activities, unique seasonal events, nightlife, shopping, dining, and more. Work on your swing, as the Orange Tree Golf Course is only four miles away. Take your family to see the incredible wildlife at the OdySea Aquarium, which can be found within an eight-minute drive. For some of the action from Major League Baseball, nine minutes from here’s Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, the spring home for the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks.
Get yourself a memorable stay, as guest rooms at Scottsdale North-Airpark come with several tasteful amenities. A flat-screen TV is provided to ensure full hours of quality entertainment. There’s a microwave at your disposal, in case you’re craving some munchies. And just like most of the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona old town, you can stay connected because free WiFi is available throughout the property.
TownePlace Suites Scottsdale
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Who says the desert can’t be fun? Wait until you stay at TownePlace Suites Scottsdale. This modern, three-star hotel offers easy access to a number of the city’s hot spots, including WestWorld, a great multi-event venue, and Taliesin West, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces. But since the weather around here can get quite hot, make sure you have enough water. We’ve got some great recommendations for the 13 best small messenger bags with water bottle holders, in case you need a little help with the situation.
Kick-off the day with a complimentary breakfast in the hotel lobby area. You can choose between hot or healthy, which should be great for vegans and vegetarians alike. In case you’re curious about a local delicacy, enjoy deliveries from nearby restaurants.
Once you’re done with your meal, go straight to the 24-hour gym and burn all those calories. Work on those muscles, as this facility also features cardio equipment and free weights. After all that intense activity, have some relaxing moments by taking a dip in the hotel’s heated outdoor pool.
As for the rooms, this pet-friendly hotel provides apartment-style suites. They all feature a separate living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and plush bedding to ensure a wonderfully comfortable night’s rest. Just like other best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona, free WiFi is available throughout the property. And in case you need anything, there’s a room service ready to help.
Rodeway Inn Old Town Scottsdale
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Experience the best of Scottsdale, as the Rodeway Inn Old Town Scottsdale just steps away from the most enchanting district in the city. You’ll be surprised to find how close this two-star accommodation is to the sights and sounds of Old Town Scottsdale. Find boutique shops with enchanting gems and souvenirs. Take a stroll along the streets of downtown and have great times at some of the galleries, bars, and restaurants there.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, a 12-minute drive from here is Camelback Mountain, one of the most popular destinations for hiking and rock climbing in Arizona. However, please note that the weather here can be quite hot, especially around July and August. So, it might be a great idea to wear extra gear to cover your head. We’ve got some great recommendations for 13 best hiking hats, in case you need some inspiration.
After a busy day, return to the hotel and relax for a while in the lobby. Enjoy a complimentary hot cup of coffee. Once you’re done with that, head to your bright and spacious room. If you think it’s too early to fall asleep in a soft and comfortable bed, enjoy some light entertainment on the provided flat-screen TV. A bathroom with a hairdryer is also provided, in case you need to clean yourself thoroughly. Not much different from the best hotels in Scottsdale Arizona old town in general, high-speed wireless internet can be accessed throughout the property.
The Saguaro Scottsdale
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Staying at The Saguaro Scottsdale was truly a great mood booster. With a lobby decorated in bright colors, it’s highly unlikely you won’t feel happy once you set foot in this Mexican-inspired accommodation. As for decoration, they present a cool combination of desert chic and pop art. It will immediately put you in vacation mode!
When it comes to location, The Saguaro is no less impressive. It’s just within steps away from Old Town Scottsdale, a place filled with boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants. If you want to explore this historical area in the most fun way possible, we recommend 2-Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours. Hop on the kick scooter and discover the best of the most enchanting part of the city!
Speaking of amenities, The Saguaro deserves a thumbs up. You’ll find everything at your fingertips. There’s a fully-equipped spa, a poolside bar, two different pools for a true summer vibe, and a coffee shop to brighten your mood. For your quick morning ritual, the hotel provides a hearty breakfast and some great smoothies in the dining area. Isn’t that amazing?
Oh, and did we forget to mention that Saguaro also provides free bikes? You can use it as much as you want. Discover some of the hidden gems in Scottsdale’s most enchanting corners. Get to know the people better, as you roam around like a local.
Recommended Restaurants/Bars in Scottsdale, Arizona:
- FnB – Taste the magical work of Chef Charleen Badman aka vegetable whisperer! We don’t know what kind of magic she’s got, but in her hands, squash can taste so delicious without the mustard and feta. No wonder she was awarded the Best Chef Southwest Award from The James Foundation in 2019. Foodies, don’t miss this one if you’re in Scottsdale.
- Fat Ox – Benvenutti! Welcome to a great dining venue, where Italian-inspired dishes are superbly crafted and served with a sexy, modern, and fun vibe. The Casoncelli here deserves an award, while the Caesar salad is also a must-try. If that’s not enough, finish off with a special 25-layer lasagna.
- SumoMaya – When it comes to innovation, SumoMaya deserves applause. We’ll give them that. Somehow, they were able to combine Mexican and Asian cuisine in such an appetizing way. Expect some brilliant creations like miso Chilean sea bass when you pay a visit to this incredible restaurant.
Recommended Activities in Scottsdale, Arizona:
- Phoenix & Scottsdale City Highlights Tour – Join in on an extraordinary journey to discover the charm of Old Town Scottsdale and Phoenix as a whole. Enjoy the opportunity to roam around and visit local boutique shops and galleries. You will get a complimentary bottle of mineral water, but the fee does not include admission tickets.
- Sonoran Desert Stargazing Tour – Experience the inspiring Sonoran Desert with one of the most memorable activities you could possibly do on a vacation, stargazing! Guided by professional astronomer, see how the Great Red Spot or the four Galilean moons come to life through a glimpse of a telescope. In less than four hours, find the most beautiful jewelers in the Scottsdale night sky.
- Scottsdale: Half-Day Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike Tour – Discover the charm of Mexico’s hottest desert. Hop on a mountain bike and witness how unique the flora, fauna, and geology are all around here. No need to worry about safety, as you’re fully accompanied by an experienced guide.