Hottest New Hotels in Phoenix

Those interested in escaping the cold and snowy winter that blankets most of the northern part of the hemisphere often look to Phoenix, Arizona for its dry, sunny and blissful climate. Phoenix is known as an incredible vacation destination in the winter and spring months, due in part to its abundance of golf courses, spas, cultural activities and events. To help you prepare for a trip to the Valley of the Sun, we have partnered with Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com to share some of the hottest new hotels in Phoenix.

As a near-native resident of Phoenix/Scottsdale, I have the opportunity to visit many of the hotels and resorts in the area. If you like great weather with an endless list of things to do, it doesn’t get much better than Phoenix in the winter and spring. From January through April there is one event after the next. From culinary and art productions, live outdoor music, the largest PGA tournament and car auction in the world, to horse shows and so much more, Phoenix has something for everyone.

Phoenix/Scottsdale has long been known for its world-class resorts and spas, so I thought I would share the hottest new hotels in Phoenix. Each of these hotels are in a different geographically desirable area with their own personal flair.

ANDAZ RESORT

Celebrating its grand opening in January 2017, this resort is under the Hyatt umbrella. However you’d never know it, as it looks and feels like an independent boutique hotel. Located along Scottsdale’s hotel row, the Andaz is obscured from view by residential and commercial structures, creating a sense of a hidden oasis in the heart of Scottsdale, where there is a plethora of nearby shopping and fine-dining.

As a seasoned traveler, it’s a challenge to impress me, but Andaz was quite successful in doing so. From the layout of the property, the contemporary mid-century design, high-end designer furniture and building materials, to the overall concept of arriving a visitor and leaving a local, Andaz will impress even the savviest of travelers.

Everything about the Andaz is remarkable, from the unconventional check-in service, to the layout of the grounds. You don’t feel like you’re staying at a resort, but rather at a mid-century communal living space. The property is made up of a series of pods with straight architectural lines broken up by meandering pathways with a combination of mature trees and newly planted citrus and other varieties. A stunning series of glass panels supported by modern stainless steel hardware elements blend in with the blue waters of the pool. The chaise lounge chairs and poolside bar welcome guests to relax while taking in the awe-inspiring views of the iconic landmark known as Camelback Mountain.

Furthering the communal vibe, the brilliantly named Weft & Warp Art Bar and Kitchen blends ingredients and flavors creating a finished dish that is simple, but so sophisticated. There are so many thoughtful details throughout the property that after a week you may still be discovering them. All of these hotels in Phoenix listed are top notch, if you wish to make a reservation at Andaz, click here.

CANYON SUITES

Those looking for the ultimate in luxury will feel right at home at Canyon Suites, which is situated in an alcove of the Phoenician Resort and shares some of its extensive resort amenities. Canyon Suites epitomizes high-end lodging, which is rooted in luxury and layered with details that define its destination.

While Canyon Suites is not a new hotel, it did just go through an extensive renovation at the end of 2016, with a contemporary residential design complemented by enhanced services and curated offerings. The world class accommodations are harmonized by its stunning surroundings, which includes a massive waterfall at the base of Camelback Mountain, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Phoenix. The grounds are manicured like a desert botanical garden featuring Sonoran cacti and desert flora, peppered with culturally significant sculptures.

Canyon Suites and the adjacent Phoenician is a destination unto itself, situated on 250 breathtaking acres offering guests 27 holes of championship golf, spa services, a number of swimming pools as well as hiking and biking. One of the newest attractions is their I.FLY trapeze, which lets guests fly through the air with the greatest of ease. There are also many epicurean offerings, such as J&G, an award-winning restaurant inspired by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Perched high above the valley floor, the floor-to-ceiling views of the city and surrounding resort match that of the amazing culinary offerings.

Canyon Suites defines what elegance and exclusivity is for the discerning traveler, which has hosted presidents, dignitaries and travel bloggers like me. Canyon Suites is one of the most luxurious hotels in Phoenix. To make a reservation, click here.

FOUND:RE

Located in the Roosevelt Arts District of downtown Phoenix, The FOUND:RE is one of the more unique properties I’ve stayed recently. Not just urban contemporary, the FOUND:RE is industrial chic, which I loved. This one-of-a-kind boutique hotel is so much more than a place to lay your head. It’s a hotel that evokes your senses. The massive art collection, design elements, wonderfully abstruse materials, to the playful gestures will keep you thinking, and smiling, throughout your stay. For example, when guests walk into the lobby a laser is activated and displays a colorful array of images on the floor, which disappears seconds later. In the suite I occupied, the shower had two heads, which were separated by clear and frosted glass. Etched in the clear glass was the word, “sexy.” The frosted glass side said, “not so sexy.” These are just a couple of the lighthearted elements I noticed.

Photographers (and the creative) will love this hotel in Phoenix, not just for its photographic opportunities, but also for the photography (and artwork) on display. The FOUND:RE is located in the thriving arts district of downtown, so they have embraced the culture of its location by emerging itself within the surrounding art scene.

The industrial chic theme carried throughout the hotel includes Match Restaurant, where the tables and chairs are made out of steel, angle iron and beautiful wood inlays. The open-air space with massive floor-to-ceiling windows open up to the surrounding downtown vibe and is as bold as the fantastic flavors coming out of the kitchen. The FOUND:RE is one of the most unique hotels in Phoenix. Click here to make a reservation.

HOTEL PALOMAR

Anchored in the bustling heart of downtown Phoenix, the Hotel Palomar is a beautiful high rise within walking distance of a host of attractions and amenities. From sporting venues, museums, theaters, conference center, shopping to bars and restaurants, everything is nearby. Downtown Phoenix is spread out, so if you don’t wish to walk, you can hop on the light rail, which runs down Central Avenue. Even better, borrow a complimentary bike from the lobby and tootle around downtown at your own pace. From the Roosevelt Arts District to Historic home districts, downtown Phoenix is full of charm and intrigue.

The Hotel Palomar is a trendy urban haven with sleek and stylish furnishings. The hotel attracts movers and shakers as well as businesspeople. The rooms are surprisingly spacious with refined touches like a Japanese soaking tub and standing glass shower all in one. The views of the Phoenix skyline from many of the rooms provide a glimpse at the stunning Phoenix sunsets. The 3rd floor rooftop deck allows guests to bask in the sun by the pool, or relax under the shaded poolside bar. Up for a workout? The Palomar has a guest agreement with EOS Fitness right next door, a state-of-the-art facility.

Located on the second floor is the “living room,” a lounge area where coffee and tea is served in the morning as well as a hosted evening wine hour. Also on this floor is Blue Hound Kitchen and Cocktails where the sizzling southwest meets the comfort of southern fare. Wide plank oak floors lead guests into the space, and a large rectangular window allows a voyeuristic look into the kitchen. An outdoor patio provides al fresco dining while taking in the views of the cityscape. A very extensive spirits menu and abundance of creative cocktails complement the overall dining experience. Click here to book a room at the Hotel Palomar in Phoenix.

THE CAMBY

Situated in the coveted Biltmore area, The Camby is a luxury lifestyle hotel that playfully integrates the five C’s of Arizona (Cattle, Copper, Citrus, Cotton and Climate) into the design and guest experience, from the cow head light fixtures in each guest room that illuminate the word “moo,” to a large interactive copper pegboard on which guests can create their own designs. The Camby is also the only Autograph Collection hotel in the state of Arizona.

The overall decor of the Camby is a blend of quirky elegance with an edge of classic sophistication. The 3rd floor rooftop poolside bar offers an urban getaway where you can enjoy a festive margarita or a frosty tropical drink to quench your thirst. Cocktail connoisseurs will be all a buzz over the Bees Knees on the first floor with creative cocktails from master mixologists. Note: If you visit, check out the secret speakeasy room.

Next to the Bees Knees lounge is Artizen Crafted American Kitchen and Bar, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Deliciously inventive cuisine with locally sourced ingredients are presented in a lively array of plate sizes and menu items which are ideal for sharing. I found the Ahi Poke and Summer in Savoy cocktail a great start to the meal.

The Biltmore is the city’s most coveted retail and restaurant area in Phoenix and is just steps from the Camby. Click here to book a room at the Camby Hotels in Phoenix.

COMING SOON: MOUNTAIN SHADOWS

Opening in Spring of 2017 is the Mountain Shadows Resort. While I have not yet had an opportunity to stay at this resort, I have visited their sister property, the Hotel Valley Ho, which is an exemplary mid-century modern experience. If the Valley Ho is any indication, Mountain Shadows is likely to be a benchmark for distinctive desert lodging. The original Mountain Shadows Resort was built in the 50s, which, like the Hotel Valley Ho, is also inspired by 1950s modernism of the original resort. I have driven by the property and the stunning mountain and desert views will certainly linger in your memory long after a visit. You should be able to book a room soon for this resort. Click here to make a reservation at any of these hotels in Phoenix.

If you’ve ever stayed at any of these hotels in Phoenix, please leave a comment below and share your experience.

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