While visiting my old playground of Arizona State University for work, I decided to look for a hotel with a resort type feel. I found just that at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort. It has a beautiful Spanish Mediterranean design that is nestled in the shadows of two local mountains. And there are 5 pools to choose from when you’re ready to chill and forget about what’s going on in the world around you.
In This Post
Booking a room at The Scottsdale Plaza Resort
As I continue to write about independent hotels and resorts, I find that they offer a more unique and individualized experience than the big brands. The Scottsdale Plaza Resort was no exception!
The King Suite was a great way to come to the desert. Equipped with everything you could need/want, this room is like a decent sized apartment! Even though you may not be able to earn or redeem Hyatt, Hilton, or Marriott points, they are part of the Stash Rewards Program. Stash is a collection of independent hotels that also offers a loyalty program. Click here to join the Stash Rewards Program.
Nonetheless, you can still use points like from Barclay Arrival to offset your expenses or the 4th-night free benefit from the Citi Prestige to save up to 25% on longer stays. I booked my room through Expedia and was pleasantly surprised when rates were around $200 for the night.
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Location
The Scottsdale Plaza Resort is centrally located at 7200 N Scottsdale Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253.
There are an abundance of restaurants and bars within walking distance or a short “rideshare” away. Click here for your first free ride from Uber or a credit towards your first ride with Lyft.
If you love Japanese food, be sure to check out Roka Akor just across the street. It’s price point is a little on the high side, but you won’t be disappointed.
The Scottsdale Plaza Resort – Check-in
The check in process was phenomenal! Incredibly easy and friendly. After checking in, I was escorted on the property by a golf cart. (So Scottsdale for those of you familiar with the golf culture).
After talking with the staff, I now understand how family oriented this property is. The Scottsdale Plaza Resort has been owned by one family for decades. Some of the service staff have been working here for 20+ years. With that kind of continuity, they treat regular guests as if they’re family.
The Scottsdale Plaza King Suite
The King Suite is a great room for a one night stay or longer. It comes equipped with a full wet bar, living room with TV, full bedroom with separate bathroom, this is a perfect place to stay for any occasion.
Although the King Suites is comfortable and spacious, some of the furnishings could use updating. The room is a bit dated in comparison to some of the newer properties in Scottsdale. However, you can see from the picture above, that the room is still decorated quite handsomely.
The Pools and Fun!
While traveling for work may seem fun, it also can be an incredibly huge tease. Sometimes my room is mere steps away from the pool but I don’t get to use it because of my busy work schedule.
With the Scottsdale Plaza Resort offering over 50 acres of land that is located in the “valley of the sun” and its 300+ days of sunshine a year, pools are a MUST. There are actually 5 different pool areas across the property, making a great way to entertain the kids or get a relaxing tan.
If swimming isn’t your thing, there is also a sweet putting green for working on your golf game and a large tennis court to work up a sweat.
Restaurants and Bar
While Scottsdale is known for its luxury, yet simplistic culture, this property reflects all areas of this. Whether you are looking for a ritzy 5-star dinner at Remington’s, or a casual meal while watching the game and enjoying a local brew at JD’s Sports Bar, there is something for everyone here!
I did not get a chance to experience their breakfast buffet, so I missed out on some delicious food at the Garden Court Restaurant. Although there are some excellent dining options in the city, it is convenient to have such a variety of dining options without having to leave the property.
The Bald Thoughts
Whether it is a local sporting event like my Arizona State Sun Devils, the Waste Management Open, MLB Spring Training games, golfing with friends, or wanting to experience the desert lifestyle for a weekend with your partner, I cannot recommend the Scottsdale Plaza Resort enough. It is the perfect mix of elegance & luxury, without feeling stuffy and under dressed. And they are awarded bonus points (at least in my book) for being a family owned hotel that offers a quality experience.
If you plan on staying here and want to use the main pool I recommend taking your own lounge chair, that is if you can even find a place to put it!! That was even at 10am too.
Wow, you must have gone during a really busy time of year. Sorry that you experienced that. Thanks for sharing!