Tucson, Arizona, is a destination that blends breathtaking natural landscapes and a vibrant cultural heritage. Located in the Sonoran Desert, this city offers the best of the Southwest. With its rugged beauty, storied past and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder many travellers are drawn to Tucson.
From hiking in the Sonoran Desert to exploring the local museums and galleries, Tucson has something to offer for everyone. And what better way to experience the best of the Southwest than by staying at one of its incredible resorts?
From luxury accommodations to cosy retreats, we’ve rounded up the 8 must-visit Tucson resorts that will make your desert getaway unforgettable. Get ready to relax and indulge in the beauty and charm of the Old Pueblo.
Must-Visit Tucson Resort to Experience the Best of the Southwest
Tucson, Arizona, is home to some of the most spectacular resorts in the Southwest, each offering its unique blend of luxury and desert charm.
The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Located in the breathtaking foothills of the Catalina Mountains, The Lodge at Ventana Canyon is the ultimate desert oasis. Upon your arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the serene and calm ambience of the resort, encompassed by breathtaking vistas of the mountains. The lodge offers many luxurious accommodations, including spacious guest rooms and suites elegantly appointed with Southwestern décor.
The resort’s gastronomic offerings are equally impressive, with two on-site restaurants serving delicious dishes to suit every palate. The Ventana Room is a fine-dining establishment serving contemporary American cuisine, while the Catalina Steakhouse is a casual option specialising in hearty steaks and fresh seafood.
When it comes to activities, The Lodge at Ventana Canyon has plenty to offer. Golf lovers will be delighted with the two championship golf courses, while fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the resort’s fitness centre, tennis courts and outdoor pools.
The staff at The Lodge at Ventana Canyon are renowned for their exceptional service and ensure that every guest feels comfortable and well looked after during their stay.
While The Lodge at Ventana Canyon offers a fantastic resort experience, it’s not necessarily the most budget-friendly option. Room, dining and activity prices can be higher, which may not suit travellers on a tight budget.
Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort
Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort is among Tucson, Arizona’s most charming and historic resorts. Located in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this 59-room resort offers an idyllic desert oasis with breathtaking views, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere.
The ambience of Hacienda Del Sol is rustic and refined, with a blend of Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean architecture that creates a unique and inviting atmosphere. Its rich history dates back to the 1920s when it was a girls’ school. Today, the resort celebrates its past with a collection of vintage photographs and artefacts, as well as themed rooms that pay homage to the school’s famous alumni.
Dining at Hacienda Del Sol is a true culinary experience, with two on-site restaurants offering farm-to-table cuisine with a Southwestern flair. The Grill features steak and seafood, while the Terraza Garden Patio & Lounge offers casual dining focusing on local ingredients.
The resort’s activities are as diverse as its dining options, with something for everyone to enjoy. Golfers can play a round at the adjacent Ventana Canyon Golf Club, while nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. Service at Hacienda Del Sol is attentive and personalised, with a staff that goes above and beyond to ensure every guest has a memorable stay.
However, the resort is in a relatively remote location. While this can provide a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, it may also be less convenient for those who want to explore Tucson’s city centre and its many attractions.
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort is a luxurious desert oasis in Tucson’s heart of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The resort offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert landscape. The resort’s ambience is sophisticated yet welcoming, with Southwest-style décor and warm, earthy tones.
Dining at Loews Ventana Canyon is a culinary experience not to be missed. The Flying V Bar & Grill offers a menu of regional and seasonal ingredients that focuses on Southwestern flavours. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace overlooks the breathtaking Catalina Mountains for an unforgettable dining experience.
For those seeking to stay active during their stay, the resort offers a variety of activities, including two championship golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. After a day of outdoor adventures, guests can relax by one of the resort’s two heated outdoor pools or treat themselves to a rejuvenating treatment at the on-site spa.
The service at Loews Ventana Canyon is first class: The friendly and attentive staff go out of their way to ensure guests have a memorable stay. Whether you require recommendations for local attractions or want to enjoy a cocktail by the pool, the staff are always happy to help.
The only downside to this luxurious property is its location – while it offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s far from the city centre and other local attractions.
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
If you want to experience the breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert, El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort, is the perfect destination for you. Located close to popular attractions such as Sabino Canyon, Mount Lemmon, and Saguaro National Park, this resort offers a shuttle service to nearby hiking trails and golf courses.
When it comes to dining, El Conquistador Tucson has something for everyone. You can enjoy casual dining at the poolside bar and grill or indulge in upscale dining at Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, which offers a contemporary take on Southwestern cuisine.
The resort offers a wide range of activities to cater to guests of all ages. With multiple outdoor swimming pools, a 143-foot water slide, a lazy river, and a hot tub, you’re sure to find the perfect way to relax. You can also stay active with tennis, basketball, volleyball, and hiking activities. Horseback riding is also available through the on-site equestrian centre.
The service at El Conquistador Tucson is top-notch, with dedicated staff members ensuring that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. However, keep in mind that the resort can be quite busy during peak season, and some guests have reported that the rooms and decor could use updating to match the luxurious feel of the rest of the resort.
Miraval Arizona
Set in the breathtaking Catalina Mountains and surrounded by 400 acres of Sonoran Desert, this resort offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The ambience of Miraval, Arizona, is all about mindfulness and holistic wellness. The resort’s spacious and modern accommodations are decorated in a contemporary Southwestern flair, offering guests a comfortable and relaxing environment. The various wellness programmes, including yoga, meditation and spiritual healing, are designed to help guests get in touch with themselves and nature.
Dining at Miraval Arizona is a treat for the senses, with an emphasis on healthy and locally sourced ingredients. You can dine in a variety of restaurants, from the casual Poolside Cafe to the upscale Cactus Flower Restaurant. Cooking classes are also available to teach you how to prepare healthy and delicious meals.
The resort’s activities promote well-being and personal development and offer a wide range of options, including yoga, meditation, hiking and horse riding. There are also workshops, classes and therapies that focus on emotional and physical wellness. The resort’s spa offers a variety of therapies and treatments using natural and organic ingredients.
The service at Miraval Arizona is exceptional, and the staff strive to provide guests with a memorable and personalised experience. However, if you’re looking for a more traditional resort experience, the resort’s wellness focus may not be a good fit for you.
The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa
The resort boasts breathtaking views of the mountains and surrounding Sonoran Desert, providing guests with a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The resort is located in the foothills of the mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stay in Tucson.
The ambience at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is upscale and sophisticated, with a contemporary Southwestern flair. The resort offers various room options, including suites with private balconies and villas with full kitchens, making it a great choice for families or couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Dining at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is a culinary experience not to be missed. The resort offers a variety of dining options, including Azul Restaurant and Lounge, which features contemporary American cuisine with a Southwestern twist. The resort also offers a poolside bar and grill, a sushi bar, and a coffee shop for guests to enjoy.
The activities at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa cater to guests of all ages and interests. The resort features five outdoor swimming pools, a 177-foot water slide, and a hot tub. The resort’s spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments, using natural and organic products.
You may find that The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is quite large and spread out, making it challenging to get around if you have mobility issues. Some guests have noted that the resort’s size can be overwhelming and may require a lot of walking.
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa offers a luxurious and tranquil retreat in Tucson, Arizona, in the foothills of Mt. Santa Catalina. It is set on 80 acres of natural desert landscape offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful, relaxing ambience. The décor perfectly blends classic Southwest style and modern touches, providing guests with a comfortable and inviting ambience.
The Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa has two restaurants where you can dine deliciously. The Gold Room offers fine dining with a creative and varied menu, while the Lookout Bar & Grille serves casual fare and refreshing cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy drinks & light snacks at Lookout Bar & Grille, the on-site lounge.
The resort offers a variety of activities to keep guests entertained, including tennis courts, two swimming pools, a fitness centre and a spa. The Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa is also an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts, as it’s close to popular hiking trails, horseback riding trails and golf courses. The resort’s knowledgeable concierge team is happy to help guests organise outdoor activities.
One possible downside to the resort is that it’s somewhat remote from downtown Tucson, which may be inconvenient for guests who prefer to be in the middle of city life. Also, some guests have noted that the resort’s Wi-Fi signal can be spotty in certain areas.
Casino Del Sol
At Casino Del Sol, just 15 minutes from downtown Tucson, you’ll experience a luxurious and lively resort atmosphere. Its modern decor and design make the ambience sleek, sophisticated, warm, and inviting.
The resort offers a wide variety of dining options, including the award-winning PY Steakhouse, which features premium cuts of meat and an extensive wine list. For a casual dining experience, head to the Festa Buffet or Moby’s Restaurant, which offers a range of American classics.
Regarding activities, there is something for everyone at Casino Del Sol. The resort features a 7,000-square-foot pool with a swim-up bar, a full-service spa, and a 24-hour fitness centre. For those who enjoy gaming, the on-site casino features over 1,300 slot machines and table games like blackjack and poker. The resort also offers a shuttle service to downtown Tucson and nearby attractions.
One potential downside to the resort is that it can be quite busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Additionally, while the modern decor may appeal to some, others may find it lacking character and warmth.
How We Picked the Top Tucson Resorts
Selecting the top Tucson resorts was rigorous, involving extensive research, analysis, and comparison. Our travel experts spent countless hours evaluating dozens of resorts in the area, considering multiple factors.
Research and Analysis
We conducted extensive research on various online platforms, including travel websites, customer reviews, and social media, to gather information on the top-rated resorts in Tucson. We analysed the resorts based on various factors such as location, ambience, dining, activities, service, and overall value.
Expert Opinions
We consulted with travel experts and local guides for their opinions and recommendations on the best resorts in Tucson. We gathered insights and opinions from professionals in the hospitality industry, including travel bloggers, journalists, and industry insiders.
Customer Reviews
We carefully analysed customer reviews on various online platforms, including TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google, to gather insights into the guest experience at each resort. We paid particular attention to customer feedback regarding service, dining, activities, and overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
Whether looking for a relaxing spa retreat, a luxurious golf getaway, or an adventurous outdoor excursion, Tucson has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of world-class resorts, Tucson is truly one of the top destinations in the Southwest.
We’ve handpicked the 8 must-visit resorts in Tucson, each offering its unique blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty. From the serene setting of Miraval, Arizona, to the lush green fairways of The Lodge at Ventana Canyon, each resort offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling revitalised & rejuvenated.
Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family on a fun-filled vacation, these resorts will provide unparalleled service, comfort, and relaxation.
