Originally Posted by aztimm

When specifically in spring? Typically March and April are peak times (Jan-Feb are usually busy as well), and hotel rates usually peak.

Where to stay really depends on what you'd like to do, balanced of course with budget. Generally out in Chandler/Gilbert you can still find reasonable prices on hotels, even when other areas will be at $300-500/night.

Phoenix and Scottsdale border each other. There probably isn't a need to change properties, unless you're looking for something specific in Scottsdale and you'd rather not be in that area for the rest of your trip.

The metro Phoenix area is quite spread out, and it could easily take an hour to travel through. During heavy rush hour, much more.