Local’s Choices for Phoenix, Arizona, Hotels

Phoenix is the beautiful modern capital city of sunny Arizona. Because of its dry Sonoran Desert weather, visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, golf, and other outdoor sports all year. We’ve lived in Tucson for a decade since my retirement, and always look forward to our trips to Phoenix, just 90 miles north on U.S. I-10.

I recommend three favorite hotels in Phoenix, Arizona, to stay and play:

Luxury – JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

Spread over 300 acres, including the championship Wildfire Golf Course, this five-star luxury resort offers rooms and suites each with balconies and sweeping desert views. There are two excellent dining facilities at the resort, the Italian-themed Ristorante Tuscany and the Southwestern-style Blue Sage.

We find the Marriott perfect for family visits, especially the Lazy River’s large pool and water slide. It’s a great gathering place whenever we have winter visitors from other parts of the country. Room rates start at about $400 per night, with online specials and promotions available, bringing the price to around $300 per night.

JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
5350 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix, AZ
www.marriott.com

Moderate – The Sheraton Crescent Hotel

The Sheraton Crescent is a moderately priced hotel located in north Phoenix just 10 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport and near the upscale shopping area of Scottsdale. We always found it great for families with kids and grandkids because of its large pool, tennis courts, and beautiful surrounding scenery.

There are three casual dining choices at the Sheraton Crescent, the Indigo Bistro, Indigo Lounge, and Coyote Café. Attracting kids of all ages, the Castles n’ Coasters Amusement Park is a short walk from the Crescent. Other nearby Phoenix attractions include Heritage Square and the Heard Museum. Great golf is just a few minutes away by private car or hotel van, and the hotel has free shuttles to local courses. Room rates start at around $140 per night, with some available online specials bringing the price close to $100 per night.

The Sheraton Crescent Hotel
2620 West Dunlap Ave., Phoenix, AZ
www.sheratoncrescent.com

Budget – Days Inn Tempe

Whenever we attend a football game or other event at Arizona State University, we make it a weekend trip to Tempe. The budget hotel is just five minutes from ASU, and we always find the Days Inn there more than adequate for our needs. There’s also free shuttle service to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

We enjoy the pool, and whenever we feel like spending a bit more, we book one of the jacuzzi suites. Within a short distance from the Days Inn are the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo, both great stops for kids. Room rates start at about $70, including free continental breakfast.

Days Inn Tempe
1221 E Apache Blvd., Tempe, AZ
www.daysinn.com

You can follow travel writer Ted Sherman on Twitter @travel4seniors and check out his blog travel4seniors.com.

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