11 Best Hotels in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Arizona

The highlight of this family-oriented, all-suite hotel is the 9-acre River Ranch Water Park; it has swimming pools with waterfalls, a 130-foot waterslide, and a 1,000-foot "river" that winds past a miniature golf course, tennis courts, and artificial buttes. Accommodations in the stucco buildings vary from standard two-room suites to a grand three-bedroom house; all have balconies. It is also adjacent to the very busy AZ 51, though it manages to filter out most freeway noise. Kids can enjoy the "Coyote Camp" youth programs while adults take in area golf and the Tocasierra Spa.

While staying here, it's easy to imagine that you're relaxing at an oceanside resort instead of in the desert; shaded by towering palms and with manicured gardens and paths, the property has water everywhere—a large pool area has a beach, three-story waterslide, waterfalls, and a lagoon. The two-story lobby opens to outdoor conversation areas where fires burn in stone fireplaces on cool nights. Large rooms have balconies or patios. Three golf courses at nearby Gainey Ranch Golf Club will suit any duffer's fancy. Spa Avania soothes the soul, while kids get their kicks at Camp Hyatt.

In a town where luxurious, expensive resorts are the rule, the Phoenician still stands apart, primarily in the realm of service. Gone is the gold-leaf, crystal-bedazzled lobby that screamed opulence. In its place is a reimagined resort that sets as high a standard for comfort as it does luxury, and routinely surpasses expectations. The resort is remarkably comfortable and accommodating—especially for children. If the world-class spa, golf, or tennis aren't on the itinerary, there's always a pool a few steps away. Afterward, take in a sophisticated afternoon tea or dinner at J&G Steakhouse.

This 20,000-acre property combines the guest-ranch experience with first-class amenities. Meals are served in the lodge's bright, festive dining room. Rooms are spacious and done in low-key Southwestern style. Some contain two queen-size beds and can be creatively configured through a system of adjoining doors to annex separate living rooms or sleeping quarters for children. Activities ranging from skeet shooting to archery to horseback riding are available.

Original artwork by Arizona artists is displayed throughout the public spaces of the Westin Kierland, and the spacious rooms have balconies or patios with views of the mountains or the resort's water park and tubing river. Kierland Commons, within walking distance, is a planned village of upscale specialty boutiques and restaurants. A leisure center specifically accommodates nonbusiness travelers. Kids can enjoy programs organized by age group.

This beautiful all-suites resort next to South Mountain Park is home to Oasis, one of the largest water parks in the country, and one of the Valley's more challenging golf courses. Modern but warm, it's a good match in a place called the Valley of the Sun. Ideal for families, this massive property feels like a true getaway, even though it sits just off I--10. Enjoy a four-story sports center, spa, multiple restaurants, tennis, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

Arizona's largest resort has an immense entryway with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow the sandstone lobby, the Sonoran Desert, and the resort's amazing water features to meld together perfectly. This sprawling and busy property includes 4 acres of water fun with water slides and a popular "lazy river," where you can float the day away on an inner tube. Young 'uns love the kids' program, while adults can rejuvenate at Revive Spa or tee off at the on-site golf courses. Each elegantly decorated room has a balcony or patio.

Home of the Tournament Players Club Stadium golf course and the Phoenix Open, this resort covers 450 breathtakingly landscaped acres of desert. Well & Being, one of the top spa spots in the country, has a dramatic rooftop pool, and kids love the fishing pond. Rooms are done in a chic blend of contemporary styles, as are the Fairmont Gold hotel-within-a-hotel boutique rooms. Service is what you'd expect at a resort of this caliber: excellent and unobtrusive. It is also home to the acclaimed Bourbon Steak restaurant.

This hotel has a great location along the Scottsdale Road corridor, with trendy restaurants and shopping opportunities within easy walking distance, making it a comfortable, affordable, and family-friendly option. The three-story glass entryway is bright and welcoming. Rooms are utilitarian but moderately updated, clean, and include free parking and Wi-Fi.

The culture and heritage of the Pima and Maricopa tribes are reflected in every aspect of this tranquil property on the grounds of the Gila River Indian community, 11 miles south of Sky Harbor Airport. Guest rooms are detailed with Native American art and textiles, and Kai Restaurant, one of Arizona's best, combines Southwestern and Native American culinary traditions. Families enjoy the Koli Center for on-site equestrian activities and the kids-oriented activity pool. A 2½-mile replica of the Gila River meanders through the property; you can take a boat to the Whirlwind Golf Clubhouse or the nearby Wild Horse Pass Casino. Keep your eyes open for the wild horses for which the resort is named—or keep them comfortably closed at the Aji Spa.

Directly adjacent to the Gainey Village development, with boutique shopping, upscale dining, and a spa, this hotel is a rare find for both amenities and price. Floor plans vary from studios to two-bedroom suites that sleep eight, all with fully equipped kitchens and flat-panel wide-screen TVs.