I will be ending a week in Arizona next July and will be spending the last two days in Phoenix before flying out. We will try to catch a Diamondbacks game as well. My family, with three teenagers, will want a water-park type place, as I know the heat will be extreme! I have looked at Pointe South Mountain, Hilton Squaw Peak and Tilapitio Cliffs. They all look fun! What do you think?

This week's paper announced Pointe So. Mtn. has been sold and will be given a multi-million dollar facelift. The other two are not far from where we live and are absolutely packed in the summer because the prices are so low in comparison to winter rates. They are situated well for getting around the entire Valley. I believe some of the newer resorts also have nice pool areas, but are located much further out.

We stayed at Squaw Peak 2 yrs ago for apring break. I researched what features each had & thought that was the best for our family, more water stuff than Tapatio. South Mountain may have been more like a real water park than we wanted. Maybe have to pay extra??? We liked Squaw Peak but it may be more mellow than what you want. Loved the lazy river & bar service, you get the idea.

I'm actually writing you from the Tapatio right now, as I'm in Phoenix on business. The hotel is perfectly fine, but I like the Hyatt Gainey Ranch better. The pools are nicer as are the rooms. Just my two cents!

Thanks so much for letting me know about the change in ownership. I am leaning towards the Pointe South Mountain, now Arizona Grand Resort! I'd love to hear from people that have stayed here after the renovations, which I understand is going on now. I like the convenience of this location to the airport.

Actually, all the Pointes are easily driven to/from the airport, so I wouldn't pick a resort because of that. In July the prices at all resorts are rock-bottom and you can stay at any of them for a fraction of the price. Though I am local, my favorites would be Camelback Inn, Arizona Biltmore, Phoenician, Gainey Ranch, .....Kirland(mind blank).......The first three are a cinch from the airport and the others, not bad at all.