With a majestic desert backdrop, year-round sunshine and endless opportunities for family-friendly fun, it’s no wonder that Phoenix and the nearby town of Scottsdale are frequent destinations for travelers with kids in tow. Fortunately, there are plenty of accommodation options, and most of the region’s family-friendly resorts boast impressive amenities like stunning pools and engaging programs for the kids. If you are trying to decide on a place to stay during your Arizona getaway, you may want to consider the following list of resorts in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch
Families never have to worry about running out of things to do at this hacienda-inspired resort located in the heart of Scottsdale. The property is surrounded by two championship golf courses and breathtaking mountain views. There is plenty of room for families to splash around in the two on-site swimming pools. When it’s time for the little ones to wind down, 37‐inch flat-screen LCD HDTVs with in‐room movies provide the perfect atmosphere. For families with older children, the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch offers two Stillman Billiard Suites that include relaxing sitting rooms with an isolated deluxe king bedroom. The large living room area is centered by a full-size pool table, HDTV, 1.5 baths and a deck that overlooks both the golf course and pool. These suites are the perfect space for you and your family to unwind after a day on the golf course.
Westin Kierland
As if a breathtaking pool, winding lazy river, and exhilarating water slide weren’t enough to keep kids entertained, the Westin Kierland also offers the heart-pounding Kierland FlowRider™. Thanks to this unique attraction, guests who are at least 52 inches tall can catch a wave, something that doesn’t happen very often while vacationing in the desert. Kids who are at least 42 inches tall can participate in bodyboarding instead of surfing. When you are ready to take a break from the sun, head inside to enjoy the animal habitat located in the lobby, which houses local desert-dwelling snakes and a Gila Monster.
The Phoenician
The upscale AAA Five-Diamond Phoenician Resort boasts a luxurious pool complex with a towering 165-foot waterslide and splash pad for smaller children. The splash pad provides a place to play under colorful buckets and sprinklers, while parents relax in the adjacent cabanas. When not frolicking in the pool, the Funicians Kids Club program will keep young guests entertained. Three 50″ TVs for video games, full-size Lego and magnetic wall, touch table with interactive games and a 180-gallon saltwater aquarium are just a few perks of this club. Sprawling guest rooms feature oversized bathrooms and private decks or patios.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch
This lovely Scottsdale resort features an intricate water complex, which includes ten pools, slide, several fountains and other water features. Aside from all the poolside fun, the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale also provides activities through the Camp Hyatt Kids Club. While attending the club, children ages 3-5 and 6-12 will play games, make arts & crafts and learn about Southwestern culture. Guest rooms are spacious and provide plenty of room, even for larger families.
The DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Paradise Valley
The DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Paradise Valley is the perfect choice for active families since the property offers swimming, a putting green, volleyball, basketball, tennis, and racquetball. Not to mention, some of the best hiking in Arizona is just minutes away. Guest rooms feature mini-refrigerators, playpens, high chairs, and private balconies, all bonuses for families. And of course, there’s that fresh-baked cookie that guests receive at check-in, a DoubleTree tradition.
The Scott Resort and Spa
The Scott Resort and Spa (formerly known as FireSky Resort) offers something for every member of the family. There are two pools, the first is a lagoon-themed area with private cabanas and the other is a kid-friendly sandy “beach,” lined with comfortable deck chairs and plenty of shade. Plus, the resort provides spacious rooms packed with amenities, each having its own private balcony or patio. The property is conveniently located to dining and shopping venues at nearby Scottsdale Fashion Square and Old Town Scottsdale.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a travel writer and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
Related: Let’s Travel to Galveston, TX