The Arizona Grand (formerly Pointe South Mountain) has a $55 million renovation substantially completed and the rooms are much better; plus there's an entire water park on site for the kids.

I often stay at the Sheraton Crescent. It's a decent hotel, nothing spectacular though.

I would agree that the Phoenician is #1. In addition to all that was mentioned above, the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful - and someone always seems to be around if you need anything. Location is also quite central.

The Boulders is in Carefree and is pretty far out, the 4 Seasons is at the north end of Scottsdale, and while not as far as the Boulders, it's a pretty long drive to anything in Phoenix. The Sheraton in Chandler is a very nice property - we've stayed there 3 or 4 times and really like it - but not in the same class as the Phoenician and there is not much around at all except a casino. The restaurant at the Royal Palms (T Cook's) is excellent and is very close to the Phoenician.

I would go with the Doubletree Scottsdale Paradise Valley Resort. :)
http://doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/...izona/index.do

It's right on Scottsdale Road and it's right down the road from Fashion Square Mall. :)

.....Also take the whole family out to Greasewood Flats. They'll love for ever. http://www.greasewoodflat.net/

Have a great time in the valley of the sun.

I have stayed at both the Phoenician and the Four Seasons and one trip to the Phoenician was enough.

The service at the Phoenician was well below that of the Four Seasons. In particular, housekeeping was not at a first class standard.

While the Phoenician had the best restaurant in the area, the chef has since left.

I've stayed at the Four Seasons five times in the past two years, the last being in September. It is without question a luxury property with superb rooms and a staff that is highly efficient and courteous.

I second The Four Seasons...service is great, rooms very comfortable and the property is beautiful. The property is beautiful at night and the drive is not that bad.

What is the best chain hotel to stay at in the heart of Phoenix? near tourist attractions? Thanks.

I'd probably say The Biltmore (a HHonors property). But it really depends what you consider the heart of Phoenix, your budget, and what you plan to do.

Phoenix Hotels for kids
 

Westin Kierland, Fairmont

hi all, narrowing down to two hotels, Homewood suites by Hilton and SpringHill Suites by Marriot, can anymore share with me which is better? thanks.

Homewood Suites competes more with Residence Inn - the breakfast will be more substantial than at SpringHill, and you'll get a full kitchen at Homewood vs. a microfridge at SpringHill.

How long are you staying? What specific properties are you considering (a brand new SpringHill would beat an old rundown Homewood Suites, for instance)? Do you have points or status with Hilton and/or Marriott?

The Phoenician is a little further out than the Biltmore, but IMO vastly superior.

Hello Brian, thanks for the information. i will be staying for 4 months.

For me i would prefer a newer room with nice bed, good coverage of cable channel and nice facilities in the room.

I do not have any point with Hilton & Marriot at the moment.