We'll be in Phoenix August 19. Where is a good place to stay? Hotels show either Downtown or Black Caynon area and I'm not firmilar with either. How about things to see/do?

If you will go to "search" and write in Phoenix hotels you will find loads of questions that have already been answered on this question. Do you not have an idea why you're coming to Phoenix and what area you need to be in? There is more information than you'll ever need under search.

We stayed at the Phoenician for two nights in June and although it is listed as being in Scottsdale, it is right on the border of Phoenix.

It was absolutely fabulous!!! The staff was extremely friendly, polite and tried in every way to make our stay a wonderful one. We were in a casita near the pool and the rooms were large with a great balcony--although it was too hot to spend much time out there--a super bathroom with walk-in shower, two person tub and separate toilet room. My 22 and 10 year-old sons loved the pools and waterslide. I can't say enough nice things about this hotel. We got a great deal of $199 for a room that, I believe rents for around $400 in the high season.

If you are on a budget, I recommend bidding for a three star hotel in Mesa at $30. You will generally get the
Hilton.

If you are looking for something more reasonably priced in the Scottsdale area (which is a very nice area to stay in), look into the Sunburst Resort. If your looking for something more deluxe, check out the Royal Palms Resort in Scottsdale.

unless there is a specific reason for being in that area, I'd avoid the Black Canyon area. The only nice hotel in that area is the Crescent hotel. If you are willing to pay the $$ for the Crescent it would be better spent in Scottsdale

CHeck out James Hotel. It's a new swanky, hip, celebrity hotel in Scottsdale that's not overpriced.