Best Scottsdale Hotels

The Hotel Valley Ho originally opened in 1956 as a playground for celebrities like then teen idols Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood, who held their private wedding reception on the grounds in 1957. Scottsdale’s first year-round resort (it was the first to introduce a cooling system) eventually closed and, after a series of different ownerships and an extensive rehabilitation, reopened to a curious public in 2005. The best part about “The Ho” is that it was able to keep its mid-century design without looking kitschy, modernizing things like entertainment systems and bathroom fixtures to today’s times. It is home to two of Scottsdale’s most-celebrated restaurants, Café ZuZu, with its comfort American cuisine, and the well-known Trader Vic’s brand, which was started in 1936 and is known for its Polynesian cuisine. Make an appointment with Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours to get the full scoop on the resort’s history and design.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa is a boutique resort with 98 casitas and six private homes, all tucked away into Camelback Mountain. Its high-end accommodations and amenities, and its secluded privacy, have made it a favorite for celebrities like Britney Spears and Beyoncé. But the Sanctuary is home to its very own celebrity of sorts, Chef Beau MacMillan, who heads up the signature restaurant elements, and is best known for filleting Bobby Flay on an episode of Iron Chef. Sanctuary also recently completed a renovation and expansion of its restaurant and outdoor dining space. Keep your eyes peeled when making the drive to the resort, though, as the property sign pops up out of nowhere and you’re likely to miss it if you’re not paying attention.

FireSky Resort & Spa is Arizona’s only Kimpton property, and it definitely lives up to Kimpton’s brand standards and reputation with a modern design and interesting theme—this time, the five elements. From soaring fire columns to breezy curtains, and flowing pools and waterfalls, FireSky’s fusion of fire, air, water and earth is evident throughout the property. The focal point, however, has to be the pool, with its lagoon-like design, lush plants and Mediterranean-inspired gardens. FireSky is pet-friendly, and it’s not just about having water bowls for your pup; the resort has its own director of pet relations, Bosco, a lovable cocker spaniel whom you’ll find roaming the grounds and greeting guests as they check in. There’s also the “BONE Appetit” package that includes an arrival treat (pet-friendly beer!), bed and water bowl, gourmet doggie treats, and more. Feeling lonely because you had to leave Fido at home? Each of FireSky’s rooms come with a pet goldfish. FireSky is also committed to its environmental programs, recently becoming the first Arizona (and one of only 100 in the country) property to receive Green Seal certification. Besides the typical recycling and conservation efforts, FireSky also offers environmentally-friendly wines during the traditional Kimpton nightly tastings, and recycles empty bottles at the end, which are then cut and reshaped into the hotel’s water glasses.

Gainey Suites at Gainey Ranch finished a $3.7 million remodel of all its 162 guest rooms in 2008 that included all new bedding, draperies and furniture, as well as bathroom revamps. Public spaces were revamped to feature a warm, rich desert atmosphere and are accented with works from local artist Louis Cantillo. Just off the lobby, the Hearth Room will catch your eye with its high ceilings, roaring fireplace and French doors that open up to the palm tree-lined lawn and desert garden. While the hotel doesn’t have an onsite spa or golf course, these amenities are all within a short walking distance, which puts it on par with some of the other larger area resorts, at a fraction of the cost. You will find an oasis-like heated pool, fitness center and evening reception with appetizers and drinks. There is also a complimentary breakfast buffet.

The Clarion Hotel Scottsdale recently finished a renovation that includes a fresh Mediterranean/Spanish theme with a remodeled pool, lounge and business and conference center. It’s within 10 minutes of downtown Scottsdale’s dining and nightlife scene, but you’ll also find two onsite restaurants—Papi Chulo’s Mexican Grill & Cantina and Tesoro Lounge Bar. All hotel rooms also have been updated with new beds, televisions and more. The Clarion Hotel Scottsdale is a budget property, so don’t expect a Ritz experience, but the rooms are clean and there’s a warm feel to the property that sets it apart from other hotels in its price range.

The all-suite hotel (121 total) is classified as a limited-service property, so it doesn’t come with the frills and amenities of an upper-moderate or luxury resort. But it’s in a great location and only steps from downtown restaurants, bars, nightclubs and museums, as well as The Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, AZ/88 and Scottsdale Fashion Square. It’s designed for the extended-stay guest, so units feature full kitchens with stovetop, microwave and refrigerator. The property is well-kept, and rooms are clean and updated; some are even pet-friendly.