Where to stay in Tucson when you want a place that leaves a lasting impression? The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. It’s not exactly budget-friendly, but with its jaw-dropping landscapes, impeccable service, and endless activities, this is one spot that will make you feel like you’ve found the perfect escape.
Tucson is a vibrant city where cacti outnumber residents and the sun shines relentlessly. Despite the heat and absence of oceanfront views, it offers stunning desert landscapes, delicious tacos, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Before you plan your desert adventure, the key question arises: where should you stay? Whether you’re after a luxurious resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly option, this guide will help you navigate Tucson’s diverse hotel scene to find your ideal base for exploration.
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Let’s start with the big one—the Ritz-Carlton. Now, I can already hear you muttering, “Lucas, that sounds expensive,” and you’d be right. But listen, if you’re going to splurge anywhere, it might as well be in the middle of a desert where they’ve somehow convinced nature to cooperate with absolute luxury.
Located about 30 minutes northwest of Tucson proper, Dove Mountain is less of a hotel and more of a personal oasis, complete with a golf course and spa that could probably fix all your life’s problems in one session.
The rooms are outrageously spacious, the beds are softer than a cloud dipped in marshmallow fluff, and the views? Ridiculous. I’m talking sunsets that will make you seriously consider quitting your job and becoming a full-time Instagram influencer. Check rates here>>
The downside? Well, you might never want to leave. Which, I suppose, is both a plus and a minus.
Top Tip: Even if you’re not staying here, consider booking a spa day or just swinging by for lunch. The food is top-notch, and the scenery is worth the drive.
2. Hotel McCoy – Art, Coffee, Beer
Now, if you prefer your accommodation with a bit of quirk, Hotel McCoy is where it’s at. Located just a stone’s throw from downtown Tucson, this place has “Instagrammable” written all over it. It’s retro, it’s artsy, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll probably leave with more selfies than you’ll care to admit.
Hotel McCoy takes all the best bits of staying in a motel and adds in modern flair—think vibrant murals, craft beer on tap, and coffee that doesn’t taste like it’s been brewed in a shoe. Oh, and they’ve got live music nights. Because what’s better than listening to a local indie band while sipping on a microbrew? Probably nothing.
This is the place for travelers who don’t mind a bit of character. You won’t find five-star, pillow-menu luxury here, but you will find charm by the bucketful. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, so you can spend your cash on all those tacos I mentioned earlier. Check rates here>>
Top Tip: Grab a free bike from the front desk and pedal around town. Tucson is surprisingly bike-friendly for a place that feels like the sun is trying to melt you half the year.
3. The Tuxon Hotel
Finally, we have The Tuxon, a chic, boutique-y spot that’s perfect for those who want a mix of modern flair and Southwestern style. It’s one of those places that’s so effortlessly cool, you’ll wish you could move in and make it your permanent residence. The design here is all sleek lines, earthy tones, and subtle desert vibes. Think “luxury desert hideaway,” but without the insane price tag.
The best part? It’s close enough to the action that you can be exploring downtown Tucson within minutes, but far enough away that you’ll actually get a decent night’s sleep. And speaking of sleep, the beds here are dangerously comfortable. Like, “I could sleep through a monsoon” comfortable.
The pool is small but stylish, the bar serves up some seriously solid cocktails, and the vibe is relaxed and unpretentious. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve stayed somewhere special, without needing to sell your car to cover the bill. Check rates here>>
Top Tip: Don’t miss the firepit in the evenings—it’s the perfect place to wind down with a drink and convince yourself that, yes, you definitely need to move to Tucson.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—three of the best places to stay in Tucson, ranging from luxury splurges to funky motels and stylish boutique hotels.
Whether you’re lounging in the lap of luxury at the Ritz-Carlton, sipping a craft brew at Hotel McCoy, or pretending to be a desert fashionista at The Tuxon, one thing’s for sure: Tucson has a little something for everyone.
Just remember to pack sunscreen. Lots of it.
And maybe a cowboy hat—because when in Tucson, why not?