Scottsdale is a bustling city in the state of Arizona and is jam-packed with world-class views, incredible golf courses, and prominent architecture. The desert landscape city attracts tourists from all over the world which is helped by the fact it has nearly 300 days of gorgeous sunlight a year!
The vibrant city prides itself on having something for everyone with a noteworthy restaurant scene for those foodies, to chic hotels equipped with beautiful spas and top-of-the-range golf courses for those looking for a luxurious experience. The city is easily accessible with regular flights heading from many major US cities, including Chicago and Los Angeles. Despite the city not being as large as some of its neighbors including Phoenix, it is still packed full of different neighborhoods with a variety of accommodation options. This can make it difficult for visitors to know which area to choose when heading to Scottsdale. In this guide, we’ll break down the best accommodation options so you can find the area that best suits you and your interests.
Quick Tips- Where to Stay in Scottsdale?
- Where to stay in Scottsdale first time – Old Town
- Best neighborhood in Scottsdale for families – Arcadia
- Best neighborhood in Scottsdale for nightlife – Downtown
Where to stay in Scottsdale
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Scottsdale Old Town
- Outdoor Pool
- Centrally Located
- Continental Breakfast Included
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Scottsdale Old Town
- Outdoor Pool
- Centrally Located
- Continental Breakfast Included
If you’re looking for a clean and well lit hotel in a great location but are on a budget then the Howard Johnson in Scottsdale Old Town is a great option. Basic but modern looking rooms, the Howard Johnson is in walking distance to plenty of restaurants and cafes and is also equipped with an outdoor pool.
Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch
- Swimming Pool & Health Club
- Gourmet Breakfast Included
- Spa & Wellness Centre
Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch
- Swimming Pool & Health Club
- Gourmet Breakfast Included
- Spa & Wellness Centre
Located in the sought-after region of Scottsdale Ranch the Sonesta Suites provide pristine facilities with mid-range prices. Its prime location means that gourmet restaurants, relaxing spa services and top-rate golf courses are within walking distance.
The Scott Resort & Spa is an elegant hotel located in Downtown Scottsdale. The hotel is equipped with a beautiful spa, a torch-lit pool and a sun terrace to soak up the beaming Arizonian Sun
Scottsdale City Neighborhood Guide
Scottsdale is home to over 250,000 people and has recently exploded onto the tourism scene with its warm weather patterns and selection of chic restaurants, bars, and cafes. Scottsdale consists of a number of neighborhoods all of which tailor to different people’s wants and needs. Below we have listed some of the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale and their main draws to help you decide on which area is the best fit for you.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Scottsdale then the Old Town Area is a great place to stay. Its lively atmosphere and central location make it the perfect place to explore Scottsdale along with it being home to a large collection of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a family-friendly trip with plenty of activities to entertain the kids then the neighborhood of Arcadia is the best place to be. Located just outside of the city, towards Phoenix, the neighborhood of Arcadia is nestled into nature. Home to a variety of outdoor activities and only a short drive away from the city center, Arcadia enables you to have two holidays in one.
Scottsdale is widely regarded as having a great nightlife scene and has attracted party-goers from all over the country. If you’re heading to Scottsdale for this reason then you have to stay in the trendy neighborhood of Downtown Scottsdale . Downton Scottsdale is home to an array of chic bars and clubs along with an incredible live music scene.
Scottsdale’s 3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Neigborhood#1 – Old Town Area
Where to stay in Scottsdale first time
COOLEST thing to do in the Old Town Centre – Take a creative look into Scottsdale on a Public Art Walking Tour
BEST place to visit in Old Town Centre – Visit the Rusty Spur Saloon
If you like to be amongst the hustle and bustle when visiting a new place then the Old Town Centre is the perfect location to stay in Scottsdale. The Old Town Centre is full of noteworthy restaurants, famous landmarks, and an incredible art scene all with a historic twist. Its prime location makes it the best place to explore the city center and is great for first-time visitors. Not only is it filled with an abundance of fun activities, its beautiful decorated streets also create a warm and vibrant atmosphere. The Old Town Centre has a variety of accommodation options from budget to high-end below we have listed three of our favorites all with different price scales.
- Go wine tasting on the Scottsdale wine trail
- Eat tasty food at a market
- Go on a historic walking tour
- Go clothes shopping at Fashion Square
Best Low Budget Hotel in Old Town Centre
Best Western Plus Sundial
The international chain Best Western is widely regarded for having top-class facilities on a shoestring budget. The Plus Sundial branch in Scottsdale’s Old Town Centre certainly fits in with this opinion, with basic but clean rooms along with a swimming pool and fitness room. You won’t find many better low-budget options in the region!
Best Mid-Range Hotel
Winery Suites of Scottsdale
The Winery Suites of Scottsdale consist of cozy but sleek rooms fitted with an outside patio perfect for soaking up the famous Scottsdale Sun. The suites are within walking distance to many Scottsdale attractions and restaurants and provide guests with a homier feel with no lobbies or elevators and a friendly arrival.
Best Luxury Hotel
The Saguaro Scottsdale
The Saguaro Scottsdale provides a unique spin on a beautifully modern hotel. The hotel’s interior combines an architectural design of Mexico and the Arizona desert and is also home to two outdoor pools accompanied by cabanas and an on-site cocktail bar. With top-class facilities and pristine location there is no wonder The Saguaro is one of the most luxury popular hotels in Scottsdale.
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Neighborhood#2 – Arcadia
Best neighborhood in Scottsdale for families
COOLEST thing to do in Arcadia – Go Hiking at Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Center
BEST place to visit in Arcadia – Camelback Mountain
The Arcadia neighborhood is slotted between the two major cities of Scottsdale and Phoenix, and it is one of the most sought-after locations in Arizona. Full of luscious greenery nestled in between the illuminant red mountains it has some of the best views in the state. It has incredible dining options along with easy access to the city center. The combination of outdoor activities and the array of shops, restaurants, and cafes make it perfect for families heading to Scottsdale. Its recent popularity means there are plenty of accommodation options available – below we have listed three of our favorites all with different price budgets!
- Play volleyball at one of the free outdoor courts
- Visit one of its famous Cocktail Bars
- Explore Desert Botanical Garden
- Visit Shemer Art Centre
- Have a picnic at Arcadia Park
Best Budget Hotel in Arcadia
Scottsdale Camelback Resort
It can be hard to find budget accommodation in Arcadia due to its increased popularity and well-regarded reputation. Scottsdale Camelback Resort is one of the best value picks in the area with plenty of apartments options fit for small and large groups. Its location at the base of the beautiful Camelback Mountain along with it only being a five-minute drive from Old Town Scottsdale are its main attractions.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Arcadia
Royal Palms Resort and Spa
On the pricer side of mid-range hotels but certainly worth the money is the Royal Palms Resort and Spa. The hotel is set amongst citrus groves along with a stunning backdrop of Camelback Mountain. A historical hotel with a Spanish-esc feel the hotel is equipped with amazing facilities including stone walkways, an outdoor swimming pool, and a gorgeous courtyard.
Best Luxury Hotel
Arizona Biltmore A Waldorf Astoria Resort
This sleek but traditional hotel and resort lies on an incredible 39 acres of luscious gardens accompanied by three beautifully built pools. Visitors are amazed by the stunning views of nearby Camelback Mountain which lie as a backdrop to the hotel’s gardens. A variety of accommodation options are available from double rooms to entire apartments perfect for families and larger groups.
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Neigborhood#3 – Downtown Scottsdale
Best neighborhood in Scottsdale for Nightlife
COOLEST thing to do Downtown Scottsdale – Have a yoga lesson on a rooftop terrace
BEST place to visit in Downtown Scottsdale – Arizona Canal
If you’re looking to let your hair down, then you’re in luck as Downtown Scottsdale is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city and even state! Lying near the Arizona Canal you will find an incredible selection of nightlife including live music, trendy bars, and mega clubs. In the day you will be able to absorb the historical elements of Scottsdale as it is within walking distance to the old town center. Downtown Scottsdale is a relatively large neighborhood and is particularly popular with visitors so there is a variety of accommodation options available to fit your chosen budget.
- Visit the Old Town Centre
- Boat down the Arizona Canal
- Explore Scottsdale Fashion Square
- Let your hair down at Wasted Grain (Club)
- Have a drink at the most sought-after bar in Phoenix/Scottsdale- Bottled Blonde
Best Budget Hotel in Downtown
Motel 6
Basic and clean rooms but at a fraction of the budget of other hotels in the area, Motel 6 provides the perfect budget-friendly accommodation in an amazing location. Reception is open 24-hours for those night owls and there is free use of a large outdoor pool in the courtyard.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Downtown
W Scottsdale
Hands down one of the most popular hotels in the city is the W Scottsdale. Facilities at the W Scottsdale Scottsdale include the signature Living Room, a towering stone art wall to observe, and an outdoor swimming pool (which is open 24/7). Its practical location means that incredible activities are within walking distance including golfing at world championship golf courses along with plenty of vibrant bars and clubs.
Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown
The Scott Resort & Spa
As previously mentioned, the Scott Resort & Spa is equipped with a beautiful spa that boasts a torch-lit pool, a sandy beach pool, and a sun terrace to soak up the beaming Arizonian Sun. Its prime location in Downtown Scottsdale makes it perfect for those looking to party or grab a bite to eat in the bustling area. The Scott Resort & Spa has a variety of room packages to fit to your specific needs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Scottsdale
We hope this guide has helped you decide where to stay in Scottsdale depending on your wants and needs. The city has a vibrant atmosphere with a unique spin and is most certainly a bucket list destination! The city center may be great, making you never want to leave, but be sure to get out of the center to explore Scottsdale’s great outdoors; especially when there is almost 300 sunny days in the year!
***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)
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