Phoenix Travel Guide

While many of our American counterparts are shoveling snow and battling the flu, Phoenicians are attending outdoor concerts, strolling around neighborhood art and wine festivals, and barbecuing poolside. It is for these reasons that the winter is considered "high season" by resorts and hotels in Phoenix. Accommodations range from luxury to budget, with most offering pools and whirlpools. The highest concentrations of resorts in the Phoenix area are located in three areas: Downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale and North-Central Phoenix near the Metrocenter Mall.

Downtown Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix, primarily a financial and government district, is the home of City Hall. Cultural activities and night life are centered in Copper Square and the Arizona Center. Home to some of the most luxurious accommodations in Maricopa County, the Crowne Plaza is the best place to stay downtown. The Mediterranean theme extends from the public areas to each one of the elegantly appointed guest rooms. Room appointments are aimed at making life easier for business people. Facilities include a fitness room, swimming pool and a jogging track. Another good choice downtown is the Hotel San Carlos. This beautiful Italian Renaissance style hotel offers European luxury. Hollywood's Golden Age movie icons are said to have frequented this posh spot with its rooftop swimming pool.

The Hyatt Regency's sky-high rooms offer incredible views of Arizona sunsets combined with the excitement of downtown city lights. Fine American cuisine is available at the on site Compass Restaurant, which features an outstanding 360 degree view of the city below. Following along Interstate-10 near Tempe, you'll find excellent accommodation at the Radisson Hotel at University with its six-story waterfall. Other facilities with freeway access include the Buttes or the Pointe South Mountain Resort which offer both lovely views and elegant dining experiences.

The area along Camelback Road between 24th Street and 44th Street is Phoenix's upscale shopping, business and residential district. It is home to the Biltmore Fashion Park shopping mall, an upscale enclave of shopping and dining choices. The history and sophisticated elegance of the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa places it head and shoulders above all of the hotels and resorts in the Phoenix area. Reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright's style, resort rooms are large and delightfully comfortable and include patios or balconies. Tee off on the 18-hole golf courses, or take to the water in one of five swimming pools.

Other first rate accommodations in the east valley include The Ritz-Carlton Phoenix, the lovely Royal Palms and the Embassy Suites-Phoenix Biltmore, widely recognized for its gorgeous pink exterior. A few miles to the east you'll find the premium facilities at the Phoenician Resort, complete with golf and fine dining.

North-Central Phoenix

Near the Metrocenter Mall, off Interstate 17, you'll find a host of lodging located near shopping and dining. Choose the Four Points by Sheraton or the newer Sheraton Crescent Hotel, both of which offer many amenities and a convenient location. If you need a longer stay, try the new Hawthorn Suites or the SpringHill Suites, which have services suitable for extended accommodation.

Downtown Scottsdale

Swanky accommodations are also available a little further east on Resort Row in Scottsdale, which is known as "the West's most Western town." Resort Row is the name given to the portion of Scottsdale Road that extends between Indian School Road and Shea Boulevard. Excellent shopping can be found at the distinctive Borgata. Stay in top notch accommodations at Scottsdale Plaza Resort or Marriott's new Renaissance Cottonwoods. Premium lakeside facilities, as well as golf with a view, can be enjoyed at the Regal McCormick Ranch.

The Inn At The Citadel has managed to distinguish itself among its counterparts. The antique and original art in each of rooms gives visitors the feeling that their room was designed especially for them. The large bathrooms are marbled, with lace shower curtains. Additional resorts, also with superior surroundings and amenities include the Doubletree La Posada Resort and the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale. The Scottsdale Princess features tennis courts and extensive conference facilities. Play at the beautiful TPC of Scottsdale - Stadium course here, which is home to the annual FBR Open.2008-08-02T07:29:22.000 77