El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort. Credit: El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Extending as far north as southern Oregon and as far south as Texas, the United States’ Southwest region abounds with endless opportunities for adventure, romance and relaxation. From a tranquil spa retreat in the Sonoran Desert to a luxe shopping break in a sprawling sun-drenched metropolis, here are six hotels for a Southwestern escape.
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Nestled at the foot of the Santa Catalina mountains, this Sonoran Desert escape boasts those breathtaking vistas you’ll only find in the American Southwest. Fresh off a multi-million-dollar renovation completed in late 2017, the hotel makes for a scenic getaway whether you’re flying solo, with a significant other or family.
Take advantage of Tucson’s fabulous sunshine with on-property activities, such as tennis, horseback riding and golf. Better yet, spend the day poolside with a cocktail in hand while a DJ spins tunes before indulging in a sunset dinner at farm-to-table restaurant Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails.
To make the most of your stay, book the Weekend Getaway Package to enjoy daily breakfast for two, premium Wi-Fi and late checkout.
Viejas Casino & Resort. Credit: Viejas Casino & Resort
Viejas Casino & Resort
About a 35-minute drive east of San Diego surrounded by the Cuyamaca Mountains and lush greenery, this secluded Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star casino resort offers all the creature comforts you’d find in Vegas, without the sweltering hot temperatures.
Run by the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, the resort boasts a 250,000-square-foot gaming floor, six on-property restaurants and a new adults-only all-suite tower called Willows Hotel & Spa at Viejas, ideal for a romantic escape.
Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you laze about the gorgeous pool and enjoy the Southern California weather by spending your winnings at the Viejas Outlets across the street.
No matter how you choose to spend your days, the property’s 3-4-2 package, in which you get three nights for the price of two, encourages you to stay and play.
Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass’ Aji Spa. Credit: Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
Take an immersive cultural dive into Native American history and traditions with a stay at this Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Chandler, Arizona, spot. Located about 30 minutes south of Phoenix and Scottsdale, the resort pays homage to the land that it occupies and the Gila River Indian Community, to which it belongs.
The property shares the essence of the region’s Pima and Maricopa tribes through cultural programming (think jewelry making classes and artisan demos), traditional design elements, authentic experiences at Aji Spa and fine dining based on tribal recipes and techniques at Five-Star Kai Restaurant.
A desert oasis that is as recreational as it is educational, the hotel offers an array of ways to take in the outdoors, including an equestrian center, tennis courts, two 18-hole courses at Whirlwind Golf Club and, of course, a sparkling pool complete with a unique waterslide inspired by the nearby ancient Casa Grande Ruins.
Whitney Peak Hotel. Credit: Whitney Peak Hotel
Whitney Peak Hotel
Bask in a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Reno at this chic stay.
Rooms are sleek and the air is pure — there is no smoking or gaming at this hotel — which makes this a major departure from the excesses of the rest of downtown Reno. The Whitney Peak also has one amenity you won’t find anywhere else: a 164-foot artificial outdoor climbing wall, purportedly the world’s tallest. There’s also a steam room and sauna where you can relax after your exertions.
Instagram-friendly, retro-chic décor is another highlight at this hotel, which provides a bed and breakfast package that allows you to savor fresh American fare (apricot granola hot cakes and avocado toast) at the property’s vintage-inspired Roundabout Grill after a restful night’s sleep.
Poolside at The Phoenician. Credit: The Canyon Suites At The Phoenician
The Canyon Suites at the Phoenician
An exceptional retreat awaits at this Five-Star Scottsdale resort, an uber-exclusive, 60-suite enclave that arguably manages to be even more luxurious than the palatial Phoenician itself.
Here, every detail — from the arrival amenities to stocked backpacks for desert hikes and helicopter excursions above Camelback Mountain — is handled by skilled hotel ambassadors. The resort pool is heavenly, and the 600-square-foot accommodations emulate desert chic.
Pamper yourself and unplug with the Phoenician Spa Package, a deal that comes with a $200 spa credit, daily breakfast for two, a wellness welcome basket and 4 p.m. late checkout so you can linger a little longer.
The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston. Credit: The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
This glamorous tower is not only one of Houston’s newest hotels, but also one of its most opulent. Boasting a million-dollar crystal chandelier in the lobby, a two-story Rolls-Royce dealership on property, a 20,000-bottle wine cellar and an onsite master sommelier, this 38-floor property oozes luxury.
Take the hotel’s complimentary chauffeured Bentley or Rolls-Royce to the nearby Galleria or River Oaks District for a high-end shopping spree. The next day, wake up with mimosas and eggs Benedict when you book The Post Oak’s Bed and Breakfast package, which provides an allowance of $75 for your morning meal.
