Eylul Tunc 
Welcome to Arizona State, Phoenix, where modern city life meets history and amazing landscapes. You will be amazed by the variety of activities that one city could offer, so fasten your seatbelts we have a lot to discover!
Phoenix is a very cosmopolitan city that offers great museums, tons of art galleries, a spectacular food scene, and vibrant nightlife. Thanks to its unique landscapes with deserts, mountains, and lush green parks, it is also an amazing place for hiking and spending time in nature.
In this blog post on where to stay in Phoenix, we will be exploring the best neighborhoods to stay in Phoenix with things you can do in each. I have already done extensive research to pick the best hotels for you but since these are the top hotels in the city they are selling too fast. So just a friendly reminder, do not forget to make a reservation in advance to secure your favorite hotel!
Shall we start our journey in Phoenix, AZ?
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Downtown Phoenix – where to stay in Phoenix, Arizona for the first time
- 2. Camelback Mountain – where to stay in Phoenix for families
- 3. Paradise Valley – best area to stay in Phoenix for luxury travelers
- 4. Encanto Village – where to stay in Phoenix for nightlife
- 5. North Mountain – best area to stay in Phoenix on a budget
- 6. Scottsdale – the coolest area to stay in Phoenix, Arizona
- Frequently asked questions about Phoenix, Arizona
- Conclusion
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here are the best places to stay in Phoenix, Arizona with hotels from luxury to budget plus Airbnbs. They are all located in the best areas of the city and have great reviews!
Here is a map of 6 neighborhoods in Phoenix, Arizona for you to easily visualize the city:
- Downtown Phoenix: for first-timers
- Camelback Mountain: for families
- Paradise Valley : for luxury travelers
- Encanto Village : for nightlife
- North Mountain : on a budget
- Scottsdale: the coolest area
1. Downtown Phoenix – where to stay in Phoenix, Arizona for the first time
Downtown Phoenix is the heart of the city where you will not only find historic attractions but also cultural sites, art galleries, and the modern side of the city. So if you want to be close to the action and enjoy a bit of everything from great museums to upscale restaurants and nightlife, there is no better place than staying in Downtown Phoenix!
FUN FACT: The Greater Phoenix area is also called “the Valley of the Sun” because of its location in the Salt River Valley and also has a high number of sunny days and very few rainy days.
It is so much fun to discover Downtown Phoenix because you never know what you will see. While you are strolling through the streets of skyscrapers you can see a beautiful old church, find a lush green park, or stumble across a great exhibition. Some of Phoenix’s most famous museums like the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the Arizona Science Center are located here as well as the Roosevelt Row arts district where you will see the impressive murals and art galleries. Sounds interesting right?
Downtown Phoenix is the most tempting place to stay in Phoenix and I’ve already found the top hotels for you. Now it is time for you to pick the ideal one for you and make a reservation in order to not miss it. If you want to add another stop to your trip to Arizona, check out the best Airbnbs in Lake Havasu for a summer getaway.
Let’s check out the best places to stay in Phoenix Downtown:
Renaissance Phoenix offers 5-star accommodation at the heart of the city with amazing facilities. I love the modern hotel rooms which have a nice city view and the chic bar where you can have cocktails in a nice atmosphere. There is a unique rooftop swimming pool, a very good fitness center, and a luxurious on-site restaurant. The famous Chase Field Stadium, Phoenix Convention Center, and restaurants are within walking distance.
Other accommodation in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona
This pet-friendly hotel has spacious rooms with a panoramic city view, a swimming pool, and a great breakfast
This Airbnb is a great place to stay in Phoenix Downtown that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the major city attractions
Located in central Phoenix, this Airbnb offers modern rooms with great amenities, a fully furnished kitchen, and a rooftop pool
Things to do in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona
- Marvel at the artworks at the Phoenix Art Museum
- Catch a show at the historic Orpheum Theatre
- Visit the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square
- See the historic St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Basilica
- Check out the graffiti and lively bars at the Roosevelt Row
- Watch a game at Chase Field Stadium and Talking Stick Resort Arena
- See an exhibition at Phoenix Convention Center and the Arizona Science Center
- Go for a stroll in the beautiful Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix and Margaret T. Hance Park
2. Camelback Mountain – where to stay in Phoenix for families
Located 10 miles (15 km) northeast of Downtown Phoenix, Camelback Mountain is a very nice area to stay in Phoenix for families thanks to the great outdoor activity opportunities and family-friendly attractions. It is also one of the safest places to stay in Phoenix!
In Camelback Mountain you will be able to find great cultural museums, art galleries, and famous kids attractions like the Phoenix Zoo and OdySea Aquarium. Apart from these, you have to also allow some time for hiking the amazing trails of the area and to discover the Desert Botanical Garden. So the only thing left for me to say is get ready for some family adventures!
Offering so many indoor and outdoor activities, Camelback Mountain is a very popular place to stay in Phoenix. That being said you have to be quick to catch the best of the best hotels that I carefully handpicked for you. Speaking of outdoor activities, if you are looking for another unique travel destination in a scenic desert, check out the best Airbnb in Joshua Tree.
Centrally located in Camelback Mountain, this 5-star resort is a perfect place to stay in Phoenix for a family holiday. There is a very large swimming pool, a luxurious spa, and a business center. You will love the spacious family rooms that have very beautiful decorations and a terrace overlooking the mountains. You can have a nice family dinner in the garden area surrounded by lush fountains and flowers.
Other options in Camelback Mountain, Phoenix
This hotel has family-friendly rooms, a large swimming pool, business center, great breakfast, and free wifi
Centrally located in Camelback Mountain, Radisson Hotel Phoenix offers a nice swimming pool and family-friendly rooms
This Airbnb has beautifully decorated rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a BBQ, and a fully furnished kitchen
Things to do in Camelback Mountain, Phoenix
- Go for a stroll at the Desert Botanical Garden
- Visit the Phoenix Zoo and have fun with many cool attractions
- Discover the underwater world at OdySea Aquarium
- Go shopping and check out nice restaurants at Biltmore Fashion Park
- Have a family dinner at Wally’s American Pub N Grill
- Visit the Shemer Art Center and Museum and the David and Gladys Wright House
- Take a golf lesson at Papago Golf Club
- Go hiking at the Echo Canyon trail
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3. Paradise Valley – best area to stay in Phoenix for luxury travelers
Glamorous hotels, posh golf clubs, upscale shopping, and delicious dining options… Paradise Valley is exactly the place to stay in Phoenix for luxury travelers!
Paradise Valley could easily be mixed up with the residential area called Paradise Valley Village that is just north of here, so to clear up any confusion, in this section I will be talking about the Paradise Valley that is located just 3 miles (5 km) northeast of Camelback Mountain.
Paradise Valley is known for its luxurious resorts, numerous golf courses, and scenic mountain views. You can simply enjoy a stroll in this affluent area, check out fancy shops, and have delicious food in chic restaurants.
For those who are into outdoor activities, Paradise Valley offers amazing hiking routes. So other than your fancy night-out dress, make sure to bring your comfy shoes with you as well!
Paradise Valley has the best luxurious hotels in Phoenix, so if you want celebrity treatment here are the best places to stay in this fancy neighborhood:
Andaz Resort offers a glamorous stay for those looking for celebrity treatment. This 5-star hotel has a large swimming pool, business center, and family-friendly rooms. There is a luxurious spa where you can chill in the hot tub and watch the mountains. I love the poolside surrounded by lush gardens and palm trees where you can have cocktails, plus the Sky Harbor International Airport is just 6 miles (10 km) away.
Other accommodation in Paradise Valley, Phoenix
This resort has 5 swimming pools, family-friendly rooms, a spa, tennis courts, great breakfast and free parking
This pet-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a bar, a business center, and free wifi
This Airbnb offers beautifully decorated rooms, free bike rentals, a fully equipped kitchen, and a nice garden area
Things to do in Paradise Valley, Phoenix
- Take a golf lesson at Paradise Valley Golf Course
- Visit the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Playground
- Go hiking at Mummy Mountain
- Have a drink with a nice mountain view at Jade Bar
- Treat yourself to a good massage at Joya Spa
- Visit Barry Goldwater Memorial
4. Encanto Village – where to stay in Phoenix for nightlife
Encanto Village is located just a 10-minute drive north of Downtown Phoenix. If you are wondering where to stay in Phoenix for the nightlife, Encanto Village is the best area to stay in as you will find tons of trendy restaurants, bars, and nightclubs here.
Encanto Village has a very convenient location to access the main city attractions and is also a very colorful neighborhood in its own right where you can find art galleries, museums, and golf clubs. You will love palm-lined streets scattered with designer shops and the amazing lush green Encanto Park.
Take your time chilling and people watching in the parks because you will need the energy to keep up with the nightlife of Encanto Village!
Let’s have a look at the best places to stay in Encanto Village that have a very convenient location to the city’s vibrant bars and restaurants:
Located in one of the best areas to stay in Phoenix to enjoy the nightlife and the main city attractions, this luxury hotel offers a swimming pool, a great fitness center, comfortable rooms, and on-site parking. In the morning you will have a very good breakfast and at night you can have cocktails at the chic hotel bar plus Phoenix downtown is just a short drive.
Other accommodation options in Encanto Village
This resort has comfortable rooms, a bar, a very good breakfast, a business center, free wifi, and on-site parking
This Airbnb is within walking distance to bars and restaurants and has a comfortable room, free wifi, and a garden
Centrally located near downtown, this Airbnb features a very nice terrace, modern rooms, and a fully furnished kitchen
Things to do in Encanto Village, Phoenix
- Have fun at Enchanted Island Amusement Park
- Take a golf lesson at Encanto Golf Course
- Visit the Heard Museum and learn about American Indian art
- Go for a walk at Encanto Park
- Have a cocktail at Sidecar Social Club
- Take a pint and have delicious snacks at Catalina Sports Bar and Grill
- Have a glass of wine at Oven+Vine
- Listen to live music at the Rhythm Room
5. North Mountain – best area to stay in Phoenix on a budget
North Mountain is located 11 miles (15 km) north of Downtown Phoenix and is the best area to stay in Phoenix if you are traveling on a budget. Hotel prices can be high in Phoenix but North Mountain offers a great selection of affordable hotels and you can also find good cheap restaurants and bars in this area.
In North Mountain, you will find the most famous theme parks in the city such as Castles N’ Coasters and Desert Storm. So, get ready for some fun roller coaster rides!
For outdoor lovers, North Mountain offers many nice hiking trails with scenic mountain views for all levels. As you see by staying in North Mountain you’ll save on hotel costs and still be able to do many fun activities.
In this area, there are no luxury hotel options but for those who want to pamper themselves with a glamorous stay, I recommend Royal Palms Resort in Camelback Mountain. If you’re looking for something in a different category, here are the best places where to stay in Phoenix on a budget.
Other accommodation options in North Mountain
This hotel offers 2 swimming pools, comfortable rooms, free wifi and is within walking distance of the restaurants
Best Western Hotel has an outdoor jacuzzi, a swimming pool, modern rooms, and easy access to the downtown with the light rail system
This Airbnb offers spacious rooms a large garden area with a BBQ, a fully equipped kitchen, and is close to shopping dining areas
Things to do in North Mountain, Phoenix
- Visit the North Mountain Visitor Center
- Go hiking at Shaw Butte Trailhead
- Have fun with many fun attractions at the theme park, Desert Storm
- Go shopping at the large shopping mall, Metrocenter
- Ride the rollercoasters at Castles N’ Coasters
- Go for a walk at North Mountain Park
6. Scottsdale – the coolest area to stay in Phoenix, Arizona
Scottsdale is located 10 miles (15 km) east of Phoenix Downtown and actually is another city in the greater Phoenix area. Thanks to its closeness to Phoenix and amazing shopping streets, art galleries, restaurants, and colorful nightlife, it is one of the best areas to stay in Phoenix.
Start your day heading to Old Town Scottsdale by checking out the cool shopping streets, cafes, and restaurants. Then, take the free-of-charge Scottsdale Trolley to discover the neighborhood in a fun way.
For art lovers, Scottsdale is home to some famous art galleries and museums and even holds the annual Scottsdale Art Festival. When it gets dark you will love the nightlife in Scottsdale as there are so many vibrant bars and nightclubs here too. Doesn’t it sound like a cool neighborhood?
By staying in Scottsdale you will have the chance to discover two cool cities at the same time so if that sounds tempting, here are the best places to stay in Scottsdale that I carefully picked for you. If you still need more options check out our dedicated post for the best places to stay in Scottsdale.
Valley Ho features a very large swimming pool, a luxury spa, an on-site restaurant, and a pool bar. I love the hotel rooms that have modern decorations, a fancy bathtub, and a private balcony overlooking the swimming pool. In the morning you can have breakfast with a great selection of fresh products and during the day can have delicious snacks by the pool plus Old Town Scottsdale and restaurants are within walking distance.
Other accommodation options in Scottsdale, Phoenix
This hotel has spacious rooms with a kitchen, nice garden, a spa and is close to the shopping dining areas
Located in North Scottsdale, this hotel offers a swimming pool, comfortable rooms, free parking, and has easy access to the city center
This Airbnb features a large swimming pool, rooms with modern amenities, free wifi and is within walking distance to restaurants
Things to do in Scottsdale, Phoenix
- Go shopping at Scottsdale Marketplace and Fashion Square
- Visit the Scottsdale’s Museum of the West and Museum of Contemporary Art
- Have a walk at Papago Park
- Go hiking at Hole in the Rock Trail
- Visit the artificial rainforest, Butterfly Wonderland
- Take a golf lesson at Continental Golf Club
- Go shopping at Old Town Scottsdale
- Have delicious food with live music at the Old Town Tavern
| 👑 Luxury price: | $400 |
| 💵 Mid Range hotel: | $200 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $150 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | $150 |
| 💰Accommodation prices: | High |
| 📍Best area: | Downtown Phoenix |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Camelback Mountain, Phoenix |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Renaissance Phoenix Downtown |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Found Re Phoenix |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Radisson Hotel Phoenix |
Frequently asked questions about Phoenix, Arizona
🗺️ What is the best area to stay in Phoenix, AZ?
Phoenix Downtown is the best area to stay in Phoenix, AZ if you are visiting the city for the first time as you will be close to the museums, restaurants, and bars. Renaissance Phoenix Downtown and Found Re Phoenix are the best places to stay here.
❌ Where should you not stay in Phoenix, AZ?
Due to the relatively higher crime rates, Alhambra is not a good area to stay in Phoenix, AZ.
🏞️ Where is best to stay in Phoenix, AZ for hiking?
Camelback Mountain and North Mountain are the best areas to stay in Phoenix, AZ for hiking. Royal Palms Resort is a great place to stay in Camelback Mountain and Best Western InnSuites in North Mountain is a good budget hotel that has easy access to the hiking trails.
🚶 What is the best place to stay in Phoenix, AZ without a car?
Phoenix Downtown is the best area to stay in Phoenix, AZ without a car as you will be close to the main city attractions. Some of the best hotels to stay here are Found Re Phoenix and Renaissance Phoenix.
👨👩👦👦 What are the best hotels in Phoenix, AZ for families?
Camelback Mountain is the best area to stay in Phoenix for families thanks to its family-friendly attractions such as OdySea Aquarium, Phoenix Zoo, and the Desert Botanical Garden. Some of the best hotels in this area are Radisson Hotel Phoenix and Royal Palms Resort.
🛎️ Where to stay in the Scottsdale area of Phoenix, Arizona?
Hotel Valley Ho and Scottsdale Camelback Resort are the best places to stay in Scottsdale, greater Phoenix area.
📷 What should I not miss in Phoenix, Arizona?
Here are some of the main attractions you should not miss in Phoenix, AZ:
● Children’s Museum of Phoenix
● The Desert Botanical Garden
● The Phoenix Art Museum
● Chase Field Stadium
● The Arizona Science Center
● The Heard Museum
● The Shemer Art Center
● Phoenix Zoo
🏘️ What is the best suburb in Phoenix for couples to stay?
Paradise Valley is often considered the best suburb in Phoenix for couples due to its upscale amenities, scenic beauty, and tranquil atmosphere.
Conclusion
It is the end of our journey in the beautiful city of Phoenix in Arizona State. I hope this blog post on where to stay in Phoenix helped you to understand the best areas and you are already getting excited about your trip!
All the neighborhoods in Phoenix have different vibes so I will let you decide on the best spot for you whether your priority is outdoor activities, shopping, museums, or nightlife. Thanks to the light rail metro system in Phoenix you can easily travel between areas so all you have to do is to pick your favorite hotel and make a reservation!
If you still can’t decide on choosing your hotel let me wrap up here with my 2 favorite hotels in Phoenix, AZ. They are both located in the best areas of downtown and have great reviews!
- Renaissance Phoenix Downtown – The best luxury hotel in Downtown Phoenix with amazing facilities
- Found Re Phoenix – A great place to stay in Downtown Phoenix with comfortable rooms and a swimming pool
If you have any other suggestions or questions about neighborhoods to stay in Phoenix and Arizona state don’t be shy and leave a comment below. I will be more than happy to reply.
Enjoy your time in Phoenix,
Eylul
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What’s the best place to stay near Talking Stick Ampitheatre? What part of town is it in – or is it still best to stay downtown?