Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center

3.0 star property
3-star historic hotel near Phoenix Convention Center

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center

Reception
Room, 2 Double Beds, City View | Desk, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Interior
Lobby
Front of property

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Business services

Explore the area

View in a map
202 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
  • Place, Phoenix Convention Center
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Mortgage Matchup Center
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Chase Field
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)
    ‪11 min drive‬

Room options

Room, 2 Double Beds, City View

7.4 out of 10
Good
(36 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds
  • Free WiFi

Room, 1 Queen Bed

7.8 out of 10
Good
(34 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

Room, 1 Queen Bed, City View

7.4 out of 10
Good
(10 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

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About the neighborhood

Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix stay.Within a 10-minute walk of this Downtown Phoenix hotel, you'll find Phoenix Convention Center and Mortgage Matchup Center. Also, Chase Field is within 2 miles (3 km) and Grand Canyon University is within 6 miles (10 km).

What's nearby

  • Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Phoenix Convention Center - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Mortgage Matchup Center - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Arizona Center - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Chase Field - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles

Getting around

  • Van Buren - Central Ave Station - 2 min walk
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Barrel & Bushel - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Dog Haus Biergarten - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Jacy & Dakota's - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Cornish Pasty Co - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min walk

About this property

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center

3-star historic hotel near Phoenix Convention Center
There's a restaurant on site. Public spaces have free WiFi. A 24-hour business center and 2 meeting rooms are available. Event space at this hotel measures 1302 square feet (121 square meters) and includes conference space. A 24-hour fitness center, a terrace, and a vending machine are also featured at the business-friendly Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center.

This 3-star Phoenix hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 129 guestrooms or units
  • 7 levels
  • 1302 sq ft of conference space
  • 121 sq m of conference space
  • Built in 1928
  • Business center (24 hours)
  • Conference space
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Staff is multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Front-desk safe
  • Terrace
  • Gift shop
  • ATM
  • Bellhop
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Dining venue
Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center offers 129 air-conditioned accommodations with coffee/tea makers and hair dryers. LED televisions come with premium cable channels. Bathrooms include showers and complimentary toiletries.

This Phoenix hotel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include desks and phones. Additionally, rooms include irons/ironing boards and ceiling fans. Housekeeping is provided daily.

Awards and affiliations

The property is a member of Historic Hotels of America.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Offsite parking available (USD 20 per day)

Food and drink

  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Well-lit path to entrance

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • LED TV with premium cable channels

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3 PM

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 1.85 percent for credit card payments

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Renovations and closures

The property will be renovating from January 9 2023 to December 31 2026 (completion date subject to change). The following areas are affected:
  • Swimming pool
Renovation work will only be conducted during business hours. Every effort will be made to minimize noise and disturbance.
The following facilities are closed on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday:
  • Outdoor pool

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Nearby parking fee: USD 20 per day
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 1.85 percent

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club. Cash is not accepted. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • Connecting/adjoining rooms are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property at the number on your booking confirmation.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Hotel San Carlos Convention Center

Hotel San Carlos Downtown Convention Center

San Carlos Convention Center

San Carlos Downtown Convention Center

Hotel San Carlos Downtown Convention Center Phoenix

San Carlos Downtown Convention Center Phoenix

Carlos Convention Center

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center Hotel

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center Phoenix

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center Hotel Phoenix

Frequently asked questions

How close is Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center to the airport?

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center is 5.8 mi (12-min drive) away from the Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center?

As of May 18, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center on May 20, 2026 start from $96, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center.

Does Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center offer free breakfast?

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Casino Arizona (18-min drive) and Vee Quiva Casino (25-min drive) are nearby.

What time is check-in at Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center?

Check-in begins at 3 PM.

Is there free parking at Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center?

Free parking is not available at this hotel.

Does Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center have a pool?

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center does not have a pool.

Does Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center have a restaurant?

Yes, there is a restaurant on site.

Does Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center to downtown Phoenix?

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center is 0.2 mi away from Phoenix.

Hotel San Carlos - Downtown Convention Center Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 427 out of 1048 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 246 out of 1048 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 171 out of 1048 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 115 out of 1048 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 89 out of 1048 reviews

8.2/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

6.4/10

Amenities

7.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

BRIANA, MYSTIC

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026

10/10 Excellent

Maria

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026

10/10 Excellent

Lori

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was very clean. It’s dated but it is a vintage hotel and is expected. Location was great. Quick walk to the arena.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Gary

Business traveler
Disliked: Amenities
The room was okay....no general store and the rooms could be decorated more. The lobby looks undone and spotty with its look and feel. For such a old property with its history, you would think they would be more enthusiastic, bright and shiny at the check in desk. There is something about the hotel that is not conducive to patrons (providing maps, directions, letting people know what's going on downtown, places to go and see)...it doesn;t feel like a hub where when visiting the hotel is helpful in that aspect.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

4/10 Poor

Lenora

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Amenities
Room and bathroom was small No fridge or microwave.. Parking wasnt validated encounter with the 1st receptionist at check in was not friendly
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Stew

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Joseph

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Humberto

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Ladonna

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
Parking was scary there were homeless people and trash all Over the stairs of the parking garage sense there’s no parking for the San Carlos. The carpets need replaced for they have a smell. The pillows were flat and hard. The mattress are too warn..,,,,
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

4/10 Poor

Luke

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
First off, the mattress was rock solid and not comfortable at all. Second, the wifi was unusable. Third, there was no way to deny the staff from cleaning the room while I was gone. Lastly, the room key cards were terrible. I had to get a new one three separate times because they weren't working. The staff said it was security, but if I can't get into my own room, what's the point? Just an overall terrible experience and will not stay here again or recommend it to others.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

2/10 Terrible

Niya

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

4/10 Poor

Syntia

Business traveler
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Not worth the price, room was small, old and dated.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Christine

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
You must stay in this wonderful historic hotel that opened in 1928! Short walk to the Convention Center. The walls in the halls are filled with history and art. Famous people who stayed here like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable still have their stars on their suites. Staff are friendly and helpful. Very comfortable room and zero problems. The Mexican restaurant on the bottom level is the best I have ever eaten!! 😋
Hotel San Carlos
3-minute walk to the Convention Center
Designated one of the Historic Hotels of America by the National Trust for Historic Preservation
Original bathroom tiles and fixtures preserved - beautiful!!
Fitness Center
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Kyrene

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

William

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

2/10 Terrible

Elizabeth

Disliked: Cleanliness
I didn’t even stay cause it was a bad area
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

4/10 Poor

David

Business traveler
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
Check-inn is like stepping into the past (late 1950's), No cable, only shows from the classic American tv early 60's, wifi does not work at all, the shower is chaotic it goes from warn to boiling in a matter of seconds. Conclusion, it probably was a great hotel in the 50's but for today's standards is extremely expensive for the poor service and confort you get. Won't stay there never ever again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Lorna

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room clean, staff friendly and donut shop across the street.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Mercedes

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
Hotel San Carlos is a nice stay if you are into the historic vintage vibe. The location is great-we walked everywhere, and there are plenty of great restaurant choices very close by. The room was clean but here is where I took away two stars. The bed is awful and the shower was a nightmare. The bed was squeaky and felt like laying on springs. The shower is tiny and when someone in another room would flush the toilet the water would turn scolding hot. I had to jump out of the way a couple times. Also, I read on the website that parking was included- IT IS NOT. It’s $18 a day to park in a very sketchy parking garage behind the actual hotel. Overall, I can complain for the price- but you are definitely getting what you pay for.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026

8/10 Good

John

Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fun and funky, with lots of history and mystery. The room was spotless. The mexican place on the first floor is top notch. The pasole is out of this world.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was very clean, was perfect for what I needed on my visit to Phoenix
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Geraldine

Disliked: Amenities
This is a historic hotel which I thought would be a bit more updated. I gave it 3* because staff was helpful and the room itself was clean and comfortable. Crawling under a desk to plug in phone/electronics was not helpful. You had to pull out heavy nightstand to access those outlets on an electric strip at bottom baseboard. Yes there was an iron and ironing board in the closet, but no outlet. I didn’t find the outlet for the hairdryer until the morning I left—above the bathroom cabinet. If you are short, good luck. The central a/c cannot be changed as it is the same temp throughout all the rooms. The only way I could turn it off was to reach up and close the vent. I am 6’ tall. Even with a chair I don’t think a shorter person would reach it. There was a $100 incidental fee; however I have no idea what would be considered incidentals. The shower had a big and deep bathtub with a handheld shower that didn’t move from the wall but the showerhead could be moved up and down and sideways. The toilet was very low. Probably 15” high max, although it felt more like 12” high. Not great when you have mobility issues. Great restaurant across the street and one in hotel and another bar/restaurant a few doors down. Very loud between 12-3am and you could also hear conversations from other rooms. The rate was inexpensive. Spots in carpets in main hallway.
bathroom outlet at top of cabinet
crawl underneath desk for outlets
bathroom-low toilet
bedroom with ceiling fan and light-pull switch
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026

6/10 Okay

Stephane

Disliked: Amenities
staff super friendly... unfortunately ... no free bottles of water in the room tv chanels not working internet router way off the capacity range ... need to go on first floor to work instead in the room and the bathroom OMG !!! the shower head is made for the Shcroumptf ... lower than 4 feet high for a big guy 6.2 !!! aie caramba .... and the faucet for the liliputian ... Please make some investment and reno ... we our in 2026 !!! i understand the standard of 1912 / 1928 ... but com'on guyz !!! money money money !!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Indigo

Liked: Cleanliness
Room was fresh, clean. Staff were welcoming, courteous, and helpful. 1928 vibe—a 1928 chilled water faucet remains in the wall above an updated pedestal basin and faucet in the bathroom, which still features the small white honeycomb tiles of that era. You can sense the Flapper era throughout the hotel—the elevators have shiny copper doors.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026