Tucson hotels

This family-owned, landmark hotel dates back nearly a century, so if you want to take a step back in time without missing out on modern comforts, this is one of the best hotels in Tucson to do so. You’ll feel right at home at the Arizona Inn, thanks to its historic library and sunny on-site gardens, complete with tinkling fountains and manicured plants.

The hotel was founded in 1930 by Isabella Greenway, Arizona’s first congresswoman. Its casita-style rooms come with inviting amenities like fireplaces, stately furniture and cozy patios.

Summer in Arizona brings major desert heat, but you can cool off in the outdoor pool, which also comes with one major perk both my toddler and I love: the seasonal ice cream sundae bar, ideal for adults and children alike. Arizona Inn also has tennis courts and loaner bikes, if you’re looking to explore the surrounding Midtown Tucson area.

One of the best hotels in Tucson, Leo Kent is located in a high-rise in the downtown area, a hub for art, culture and some of the city’s finest restaurants. It’s one of the top fancy hotels in Tucson – you’ll immediately notice the sophisticated wood floors, leather furniture and contemporary chandeliers – but still retains a Southwest feel, thanks to details like cactus plants and Arizonian art.

Named after Dr Leo Kent, a local medical professional who was dedicated to helping his community in the 1950s, this particular hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to explore the downtown culinary scene (starting with the hotel’s very own St. Cruz Restaurant).

This hotel is one of my favorite spots when I’m visiting Tucson with friends. I’ll hit the downtown restaurants, then come back and relax in my Southwest-inspired room, complete with green leather headboard, cowhide-covered chairs and geometric zig-zag carpet.

For those who want to be as close as possible to the University of Arizona campus, the Adobe Rose Inn is one of the best boutique hotels in Tucson. Another hotel on this list that dates back nearly a century, this spot is in the Sam Hughes neighborhood, a national historic district.

Technically a bed-and-breakfast, I stay here when I need some alone time, as the property only has six guestrooms and what feels like your own private pool (even though it’s shared with all the guestrooms).

It’s the little details that make a stay at this top-rated hotel in Tucson special. Each room is different, but all have a chiminea-style gas fireplace and a writing desk that inspires scripting postcards to your loved ones or finally starting that novel. Some rooms feature tiled soaking tubs or private balconies. I particularly love wandering the property to admire the original art and blooming flowers.