I'm traveling to Scottsdale, Arizona in August and am staying in the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa for four days. I was wondering if anyone had feedback on the hotel itelf and the area it surrounds.

Hi CG,
Have been by hotel many times, but never inside. It is located directly across the street from Scottsdale's newest upscale outdoor shopping area, Kierland Commons. Hotel is very impressive looking. Am sure you won't be disappointed.
Francie

Rooms are pretty small, but beds very comfortable, location good, and it's new, so no wear and tear issues.

I think it is really nice, and I love the area. The rooms are a bit small, but well appointed.

I just got back from 3 nights there. I have to say, the hotel was very clean and new. The service was outstanding and the concierge could not of been more helpful. I paid $97 / night and it couldn't have been more worth it.

Thanks all very much for the info. I look forward to my stay next month.

I was wondering if I should travel by taxi or just rent a car. How far is the Westin from PHX and other tourist attractions? I was just wondering if it is necessary to rent a car because i heard that the Westin offers shuttle service to local areas as well??? Does anyone know if this applies to the PHX airport???

Calliegirl, pls see my recent post. We just returned from the Kierland.

Yes, you should rent a car. We saw some buses on the main roads, but the Kierland is set back & away from those roads. We got a good deal at Alamo (although the $149 per week became $300 including gas & taxes) and were upgraded from full size to premium (nice Maxima).

Have a great time.

Sorry, Calliegirl, that's "Trip Report/Phoenix".

Hi calliegirl, I just spent 3 days at the Westin in July. When I got there it was 117 degrees, but I knew what I was getting myself into because my daughter lives in Tempe and I was there on business and to spend some time with her. The hotel is very nice and if you sign up for Starwood Preferred Guest on www.spg.com you can earn points for your stay and sometimes get free upgrades. The hotel was clean and beautiful and the pool was great! I worked out at the gym everyday - just be sure to ask for a headset at the front desk and you can treadmill your way through Oprah! You are just steps away from some good restaurants and shopping - Crate & Barrel, Anthropologie, Chicos, Pottery Barn and restaurants like Cheesecake Factory and P.F. Changs. You will love it!

Actually,the Westin is in Phoenix, not Scottsdale. Even though somehow they can say it is in Scottsdale, all taxes go to PHX. The dividing line is Scottsdale Rd. Businesses on the west side -- PHX, and vice versa on the east side of Scottsdale Rd. Yes, by all means you will need a rental car. For more shopping closeby and up north, check out the Promanade Shopping Center -- Scottsdale side.
Enjoy yourself regardless of the heat.
Francie

Calliegirl,
I would definitely look into a car rental outside of the airport. We found out (too late) that PHX airport has amongst the highest car rental taxes. Call the Concierge & ask what your options are.

How do you rate the Westin for kids--10 to be specific. Very well behaved. Looking for a very nice hotel with a super pool complex. Also, big son's girlfriend may join us so the room will have to be big enough for a roll-a-way.