Nestled in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, Tucson is a dynamic city offering everything from historic sites to epic outdoor attractions to a surprisingly innovative food and drink scene. Whether you’re in town for a fun-filled family vacation or a carefree weekend away with friends, you’re bound to have a blast exploring this vibrant Arizona city. 

One of the biggest draws of Tucson is its many natural attractions. Nature enthusiasts will love hiking in nearby Saguaro National Park, Catalina State Park, and Tucson Mountain Park. From waterfall excursions to wildlife watching, it’s no wonder why Tucson is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts! 

If you’d rather spend your time exploring downtown, you’ll find all sorts of family-friendly things to do. You can easily spend your days catching shows at the Gaslight Theatre, exploring the Tucson Botanical Gardens, and checking out Old Tucson, the former film studio turned Wild West theme park. And if you want to get a taste of this university town’s nightlife scene, you’ll want to spend at least one evening bar-hopping along Fourth Avenue!

Of course, no visit to Arizona‘s second-largest city is complete without getting a feel for the region’s culture and history at the El Presidio Historic District, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, and the Mission San Xavier del Bac. 

Once you work up an appetite, you’ll be spoiled for choice in this foodie-centric town. With its close proximity to the Mexico border, it’s no secret that Tucson is home to some of the best Mexican restaurants in the US. But delve a little deeper, and you’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving up Sonoran-style hot dogs to gourmet bistros dishing out farm-to-table Southwest-style fare.

After a long day of hiking, shopping, and dining, you’ll want a nice hotel to come home to. You’ll find all sorts of sprawling resorts, charming B&Bs, and art-filled boutique hotels scattered around town.  So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Tucson to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Boutique Hotels In Tucson, Arizona

Where to Stay in Tucson

It’s no surprise that some of the best hotels in Tucson are clustered around the historic downtown area. If this is your first trip to the city and you plan on ticking off all of Tucson’s major attractions, this is the best place to base yourself. 

And if you’re in town to party hard and indulge in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, pick one of the hotels lining historic Fourth Avenue! You’ll also find plenty of hip hotels surrounding the University of Arizona campus.

Located in the northwest of downtown, history buffs will love staying in the El Presidio neighborhood. Explore the historic streets, and you’ll find all sorts of excellent museums, Mexican restaurants, and boutique shops. 

If you’re looking for a relaxing retreat surrounded by nature, Oro Valley is another excellent option. Tucked away 30 minutes north of downtown, this is a convenient jumping-off point if you plan to go hiking at Mount Lemmon and Catalina State Park. There are also plenty of luxury resorts and charming B&Bs on the outskirts of downtown.

12 Best Hotels in Tucson, Arizona

1. JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort

If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat where you can get away from it all, JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort is hands down the best hotel in Tucson. Whether you want to spend your days getting pampered at the full-service spa or golfing on the three Arnold Palmer-designed desert golf courses, you’ll never have to leave the resort if you don’t want to. But if you do want to explore Tucson’s main attractions, the city center is just 6 miles down the road.

You’ll love the rustic-chic rooms, which all boast mid-century decor, plush beds with luxury linens, and marble baths with Aromatherapy Associates toiletries. If you really want to treat yourself, the Presidential Suite offers 2,200 square feet of space, a beautifully appointed living and dining room, and a balcony with sweeping views.

When you’re not luxuriating in your room or suite, splash around in the resort’s incredible multilevel outdoor pool, take a ride down the waterslide, or float along the lazy river. Whenever you want to get out in nature, the Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead and all of the trails in Tucson Mountain Park are right in your backyard. 

If you want to dine at the hotel, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Sample “cowboy” cuisine at Signature Grill, dine on Mexican fare with a view at Salud, enjoy farm fresh Italian dishes at Primo, and so much more!

2. Graduate Tucson

As the name implies, Graduate Tucson is the perfect pick if you’re in town to visit the University of Arizona. Set right in the heart of campus, expect a buzzing and youthful atmosphere at this hip hotel.

One of the coolest things about the Graduate is the rooftop bar and terrace. Head up to the 14th floor, and you’ll find a trendy boho-style space where you can swim in the rooftop pool, warm up around the fire pits, or sip cocktails and take in the stunning city views. If you’re feeling peckish, the bar also serves up creative American dishes like Tajin Spiced Shrimp and Mango Skewers and Pimento Cheese and Crackers. 

After a long day on the town, you’ll love getting refreshed in your ultra-stylish room. Rooms are all outfitted with eclectic and retro decor (think cactus floor lamps), comfy beds with triple sheeting, and luxe ensuites with Malin + Goetz toiletries. If you’re traveling with young children, the Family Suite features two connecting rooms with an adorable Southwest-themed room and teepee beds for the little ones!

3. The Tuxon Hotel

Pull up to The Tuxon, and you’ll immediately see why this is regarded as the coolest boutique hotel in Tucson! Housed in a revamped motel, you’ll be a mile from all of downtown’s main attractions. Whenever you want to get out and explore, the hotel provides complimentary bikes, which makes getting around town a breeze!

The entire hotel is set around the custom boomerang-shaped pool. Whether you want to work on your tan during the day or mingle over cocktails in the evenings, chances are you’ll be spending a lot of time poolside. You can also dine on creative seasonal dishes at The Pool Bar whenever you’re feeling hungry.

It’s impossible not to love the hotel’s super stylish rooms. The color schemes, materials, and artwork are all handpicked to pay homage to the region’s American, Mexican, and Native American heritage. Expect bespoke local designs and cool extras like potted local succulents, Marshall Bluetooth speakers, and Malin + Goetz bath products.

4. AC Hotel Tucson Downtown

Whether you’re in town for work or play, AC Hotel is easily one of the best hotels in Tucson. Located right in the middle of the Downtown Entertainment District, this is the only new hotel to be built in downtown Tucson in 40 years, so expect everything to be modern and top of the line. 

When you’re not hiking or gallery hopping around town, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied at AC Hotel. You’ll love swimming and soaking up the sun at the rooftop pool, working up a sweat in the fully outfitted gym, and sipping sunset cocktails with friends at The AC Lounge. 

The rooms are outfitted with everything you need for a comfortable stay. If you just want to relax, get comfy on the plush bed and watch your favorite Netflix shows with the smart TV. Or, if you need to catch up on work, each room comes with complimentary high-speed internet and designated workstations.

5. Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort 

Dating back to 1929, the Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is a member of the Historic Hotels of America. From John Wayne to Katharine Hepburn, all sorts of famous guests have stayed at this one-of-a-kind hotel – so you know it’s something special!

The resort is set on 39 beautiful acres at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountain Range. From meandering around the nature-filled property to hiking at nearby Finger Rock Canyon, this place is a dream come true for nature enthusiasts. 

Or, if you’re in town for a relaxing getaway, you’ll love lounging around the spectacular pool area and getting massages at the spa. The resort also boasts two fine dining restaurants, which offer seasonal dishes sourced from the resort’s very own garden as well as award-winning wine lists curated by the resort’s expert sommelier. 

If that’s not enough luxury, you’ll love the hacienda-style guest rooms. While the standard rooms are the epitome of luxury, it’s well worth splurging on the Tracy-Hepburn Casita Grande, which boasts two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a wraparound patio with beautiful mountain views.

6. Cactus Cove Bed and Breakfast Inn

If big hotels aren’t your thing, Cactus Cove is one of the most unique hotels in Tucson. Located roughly 30 minutes from downtown Tucson, this incredible bed and breakfast is the perfect pick if you’re looking for an ultra-relaxing retreat. 

In the mornings, wake up to full gourmet breakfasts served either in the formal dining room or under the covered veranda by the pool. Entrees range from huevos rancheros and broccoli quiche to French toast and pancakes. 

After breakfast, you can take in the desert views from the pool or catch up on your novel in the beautifully landscaped gardens. Or, if you prefer something more active, Saguaro National Park and Agua Caliente Park are both a stone’s throw away.

After a long day adventuring around Tucson, you’ll love unwinding in one of the three suites. Each suite is different, but all boast Spanish colonial and southwest-style furnishings, private furnished courtyards with outdoor showers, and spa-like baths with two-person jetted tubs. If you really want to pamper yourself, you can arrange to get in-room massages for an added fee.

7. Hotel McCoy

If you’re an art lover or just want to stay in one of the coolest hotels in Tucson, look no further than Hotel McCoy! This reimagined 1960s hotel is all about celebrating and supporting local artists and businesses. Explore the grounds, and you’ll find over 50 murals adorning the walls and all sorts of locally sourced products and decor. 

The retro rooms boast comfy beds with green tea memory foam mattresses, colorful Tucson art, and all-natural hair and body products. The 55-inch smart TV with Roku, the assortment of firm and soft pillows, and the retro fridge are cool added touches. 

When you’re not out exploring Tucson, the hotel offers a saltwater pool, an alfresco game area, an outdoor theater, and a mini-gym. Freebies include parking, breakfast, and local wine and beer tastings. Plus, if you’re hungry or need a pick me up, you can grab freshly made Tucson Tamales and locally roasted coffee in the lobby.

8. The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa

With so many luxurious amenities, you’ll never want to leave The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa. Set right in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, looking out over the Santa Catalina Mountains, this AAA Four-Diamond hotel provides everything you need for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay.

You can spend your days teeing off at the resort’s Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and getting massages at La Paloma Spa & Salon. After that, put on your swimsuit and relax by one of the five spectacular outdoor pools. Plus, if you want to keep up with your exercise routine, the resort boasts a fully outfitted fitness center with complimentary classes. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can choose from Latin American-inspired fare at Contigo Latin Kitchen, farm-to-table southwestern dishes at AZuL Restaurant, and casual American grub at Sabino’s Pool Bar & Grill. Or, if you’re feeling lazy, you can always wrap yourself in your plush bathrobe, switch on the TV, and order room service to your luxurious room.

9. Hotel Congress

Dating back to 1919, this hip hotel once rented a room to the infamous bank robber John Dillinger! From its storied history to its vintage touches, this is definitely one of the coolest boutique hotels in Tucson. Located right in the heart of downtown, this is the perfect pick if you’re in town to indulge in Tucson’s vibrant bar, restaurant, and nightlife scene. 

Each of the 39 rooms is designed to pay tribute to the building’s history, so expect iron bed frames, vintage radios, and 1930s-style rotary phones that connect to a real switchboard used by the staff at the front desk! But don’t worry, all of the rooms feature everything you need for a comfortable stay, including plush beds, air conditioning, and modern ensuites.

If paranormal activity is your thing, you might spot the “Lady in White” in room 242 or a man in a seersucker suit peering out of the window in room 214! If you’re spooked and need a drink to calm your nerves, head down to the hotel’s old-fashioned Tap Room Bar.

Check Prices & Availability on Booking.com

10. Armory Park Inn

Stay at The Armory Park Inn, and you’ll be staying in a piece of history. The Sonoran-style house was built in 1875 and was once a stagecoach stop for travelers heading to the Presidio! Fast forward to today, and the building has been beautifully transformed into a luxurious boutique bed and breakfast.

One of the best things about this inn is that the friendly staff will treat you like royalty during your stay. From mapping out a bike tour of downtown Tucson to guiding you to the best restaurants in town, they go above and beyond to ensure you have the best time in their city as possible!

In the mornings, the chef will dish out a complimentary buffet breakfast made up of locally sourced fare, and in the evenings, you can snack on light bites and sip local wine at the “Armory Hour.” Plus, you’ll have access to all sorts of cool amenities, including free 7-speed cruiser bikes and a gym with a Peloton bike and a Woodway Path treadmill.

While each of the beautifully decorated rooms is totally unique, each one offers beds with custom hand-tufted cashmere and cotton mattresses and luxury Frette linens and spa-like baths with rainfall showers, oversized Turkish-T bath linens, and William Roam bath amenities.  

11. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort

If you’re looking for a luxury resort where you can just kick back and relax, Loews is one of the best hotels in Tucson. There’s a reason USA Today named this place as one of the “10 Best Luxury Hotels in Tucson!”

Book a stay here, and you can spend your vacation splashing around in the two heated pools, relaxing in a hot tub, teeing off at one of two on-site golf courses, and playing tennis on one of the tennis courts. If that’s not enough, there’s also a state-of-the-art spa and a fully outfitted gym. 

With four on-site restaurants, there’s no need to actually leave the resort if you don’t feel like it. Get your morning coffee fix at Vista Barista, dine on Sonoran Mexican fare at Bill’s Grill, and sip evening cocktails at Cascade Lounge. But the main event is Flying V Bar & Grill, which is known for its excellent Southwestern-inspired dishes as well as its famous tableside guacamole, made to order by the restaurant’s guacamoliere!

With their ultra-comfy beds, private balconies or patios, and luxurious ensuites with deep soaking tubs, you’ll never want to leave your dreamy room. Expect all sorts of fancy extras, from Julien Farel Anti-Aging haircare and body products, Keurig coffee makers with gourmet coffee, and Ultimate Doeskin robes by Chadsworth & Haig.

12. The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain

If it’s not obvious by now, Tucson is brimming with luxurious resorts. And The Ritz-Carlton is arguably one of the best! Surrounded by the canyons of the Tortolita Mountains, this incredible resort is located roughly 25 miles from the heart of downtown Tucson. But with so many pampering amenities, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing getaway.

Explore the grounds, and you’ll find 27 championship holes at the Golf Club of Dove Mountain, 26 miles of scenic hiking trails, and three massive swimming pools. If that’s not enough, you can get holistic treatments inspired by Arizona gemstones and Native American shamans at the spa and dine at one of the hotel’s three five-star restaurants. 

You’ll love relaxing in your room after a fun-filled day at the resort. The elegant Southwest-style rooms boast indigenous textiles and local artwork, luxe marble baths, and floor-to-ceiling windows leading out to private decks. If you’re willing to splurge, the Golf Casita Suite is well worth it for its living room with a fireplace and furnished patios with beautiful views of Wild Burro Canyon.

That completes our list of the 12 best Tucson hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Tucson? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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