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Unique Places to Stay in Arizona

Arizona, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse natural wonders, offers travelers a wealth of unique places to stay. From luxurious resorts nestled in the desert to cozy cabins tucked away in pine forests, the Grand Canyon State has accommodations to suit every taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most extraordinary and memorable lodging options across Arizona, ensuring your next visit is truly one-of-a-kind.

Desert Retreats: Embracing Arizona’s Iconic Landscape

Luxury Resorts with a Twist

Arizona’s desert regions are home to some of the most opulent and unique places to stay in the state. These resorts offer a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty:

The Boulders Resort & Spa (Scottsdale): This stunning resort is built around massive 12-million-year-old granite boulders. Guests can stay in casitas that seamlessly blend into the desert landscape, offering unparalleled views and privacy.
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa (Paradise Valley): Perched on the slopes of Camelback Mountain, this resort offers panoramic views of Paradise Valley. The mountain casitas and suites provide a serene escape with modern amenities.
Enchantment Resort (Sedona): Nestled in Sedona’s red rock country, this resort offers Adobe-style accommodations with private decks overlooking the majestic canyons. The on-site spa, Mii Amo, is renowned for its Native American-inspired treatments.

Glamping in Style

For those seeking a more immersive desert experience without sacrificing comfort, glamping options abound:

Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Valle): Located just 25 minutes from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, this luxury camping resort offers safari-style tents with plush bedding and wood-burning stoves.
Shash Diné Eco-Retreat (Page): Experience authentic Navajo hospitality in traditional hogans, sheepherder wagons, or bell tents. This eco-friendly retreat offers stunning views of the surrounding desert and night sky.
Schnepf Farms Cozy Peach (Queen Creek): Stay in vintage Airstream trailers on a working farm. Each trailer is uniquely decorated and offers modern amenities amidst a rural setting.

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Mountain Escapes: Cool Retreats in Arizona’s High Country

Rustic Cabins and Lodges

Arizona’s mountainous regions provide a cool respite from the desert heat and offer some of the most unique places to stay in the state:

Arizona Nordic Village (Flagstaff): Experience a taste of Scandinavia in the Southwest with cozy yurts and cabins surrounded by ponderosa pine forests. In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing right from your doorstep.
Hannagan Meadow Lodge (Alpine): This historic lodge, built in 1926, offers rustic cabins and rooms in the heart of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. At an elevation of 9,100 feet, it’s one of the highest lodges in Arizona.
The Strawberry Inn (Strawberry): This boutique hotel offers a mix of modern rooms and tiny homes in a charming mountain setting. The property’s aesthetic blends rustic charm with contemporary design.

Treehouses and Elevated Experiences

For a truly unique stay, consider these elevated accommodations:

Out’n’About Treesort (Madera Canyon): While technically just across the border in New Mexico, this treehouse resort is worth mentioning for its proximity to Arizona. Stay in one of several treehouses, some as high as 37 feet off the ground.
The Canopy Tree Houses at Fossil Creek Creamery (Pine): These luxury treehouses offer a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, perched high among the pines with views of the surrounding forest.

Urban Oases: Unique Stays in Arizona’s Cities

Boutique Hotels with Character

Arizona’s cities offer a range of unique accommodations that reflect the state’s rich history and culture:

Hotel Valley Ho (Scottsdale): This mid-century modern gem has been restored to its 1950s glory. The retro-chic rooms and suites offer a nostalgic yet luxurious experience.
The Clarendon Hotel and Spa (Phoenix): Known for its eclectic decor and rooftop sky deck, this boutique hotel offers a vibrant urban experience with stunning city views.
Hotel Congress (Tucson): Built in 1919, this historic hotel played a role in the capture of John Dillinger. Today, it offers vintage-style rooms and a lively music scene.

Converted Spaces

Some of the most unique places to stay in Arizona are former schools, banks, and other repurposed buildings:

The Schoolhouse Hotel (Bisbee): This former schoolhouse has been transformed into a charming hotel, with each room uniquely decorated to reflect its educational past.
The Tuxon Hotel (Tucson): Once a mid-century motor lodge, this renovated hotel now offers a modern desert aesthetic with a nod to its vintage roots.
FOUND:RE Phoenix: This arts-focused hotel occupies a former office building and showcases work by local artists throughout its industrial-chic spaces.

Water-Centric Retreats: Oases in the Desert

Lakeside Lodgings

Despite its desert reputation, Arizona boasts several lakes that offer unique waterfront accommodations:

The Nautical Beachfront Resort (Lake Havasu City): This beachfront resort on Lake Havasu offers rooms with private balconies overlooking the water, as well as a unique floating bar.
London Bridge Resort (Lake Havasu City): Stay near the famous London Bridge, relocated from England, and enjoy suite accommodations with lake views.
Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch (Mesa): This historic ranch offers cabins along the banks of the Salt River, just below Saguaro Lake. Enjoy horseback riding, kayaking, and stunning desert scenery.

Riverside Retreats

Arizona’s rivers provide the backdrop for some truly unique places to stay:

Cliff Dwellers Lodge (Marble Canyon): Located along the Colorado River near Lee’s Ferry, this lodge offers cozy cabins with stunning views of the Vermilion Cliffs.
Rancho Sedona RV Park (Sedona): While primarily an RV park, this location offers a few rental cabins along Oak Creek, providing a serene setting in the heart of red rock country.

Underground and Cave Experiences

For those seeking the ultimate in unique accommodations, Arizona offers some subterranean options:

Grand Canyon Caverns Suite (Peach Springs): Stay 220 feet underground in the largest dry cavern in the United States. This one-of-a-kind suite is nestled within a 65-million-year-old cave.
Kokopelli’s Cave (Farmington, NM): While technically in New Mexico, this unique cave dwelling is just a short drive from the Arizona border. The 1,700 square foot cave home is built into a cliff face 70 feet below the surface.

Themed Accommodations: Immersive Experiences

Old West-Inspired Stays

Embrace Arizona’s cowboy heritage with these themed accommodations:

Tanque Verde Ranch (Tucson): This dude ranch offers an authentic Western experience with horseback riding, cowboy cookouts, and comfortable rooms with desert views.
Tombstone Monument Ranch (Tombstone): Step back in time at this Old West-themed resort, complete with saloon, marshal’s office, and rooms named after famous Tombstone locations.
Rancho de los Caballeros (Wickenburg): This upscale guest ranch offers a blend of Western charm and resort amenities, including golf, spa treatments, and horseback riding.

Native American-Inspired Accommodations

Experience Arizona’s rich indigenous culture with these unique stays:

Noftsger Hill Inn (Globe): This former schoolhouse offers themed rooms, including one dedicated to Apache culture, with authentic artifacts and decor.
La Posada Hotel (Winslow): Designed by Mary Colter, this historic hotel showcases the influence of indigenous Southwestern architecture and offers rooms named after famous guests.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Stays

For environmentally conscious travelers, Arizona offers several unique green lodging options:

Arcosanti (Mayer): This urban laboratory focused on innovative design offers simple, eco-friendly accommodations in a futuristic desert setting.
The Fitz House (Phoenix): This solar-powered guesthouse in the heart of Phoenix offers a sustainable urban retreat with a focus on minimalism and energy efficiency.
Biosphere 2 (Oracle): While not offering overnight accommodations, the nearby Peppersauce Cave Campground allows visitors to stay close to this unique research facility and take part in special night tours.

Astronomy-Focused Accommodations

Arizona’s dark skies make it an ideal destination for stargazers, and several unique places to stay cater to this interest:

Dark Sky Brewing Company’s Airstream (Flagstaff): Stay in a renovated Airstream trailer equipped with a telescope, perfect for enjoying Flagstaff’s status as the world’s first International Dark Sky City.
Kitt Peak National Observatory (Tucson): While the observatory doesn’t offer traditional accommodations, it does provide a unique “Dark Sky Discovery Program” that includes overnight telescope viewing sessions.

Wellness and Spiritual Retreats

Arizona’s natural beauty and energy vortexes make it a popular destination for those seeking rejuvenation:

CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa (Carefree): This wellness-focused resort offers a range of health-oriented activities and spa treatments in a serene desert setting.
Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa (Tucson): Known for its comprehensive approach to wellness, this resort offers luxurious accommodations and a wide array of mind-body programs.
Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center (Carefree): This interfaith retreat center offers simple accommodations and programs focused on spiritual growth and renewal.

Seasonal and Pop-Up Accommodations

Some of the most unique places to stay in Arizona are only available during certain times of the year:

Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort (Flagstaff): During the winter months, stay in cozy cabins or the newly renovated lodge at this popular ski resort.
Desert Botanical Garden Flashlight Tours (Phoenix): While not an overnight stay, these night tours offer a unique way to experience the desert after dark during the summer months.
Colossal Cave Mountain Park Camping (Vail): Camp near one of Arizona’s largest cave systems and enjoy night tours during special events.

Arizona’s diverse landscape and rich culture offer an abundance of unique lodging options beyond the well-known resorts and hotels. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into some specialized and lesser-known accommodations that cater to specific interests and needs. From pet-friendly retreats to architecturally significant stays, these unique places to stay in Arizona offer experiences that go beyond the ordinary.

Pet-Friendly Unique Accommodations: Traveling with Your Furry Friends

For many, pets are family, and leaving them behind while traveling isn’t an option. Fortunately, Arizona offers several unique places to stay that not only welcome pets but cater specifically to animal lovers.

The Ruff Life Inn & Doggie Daycare (Sedona)

Nestled in the red rock country of Sedona, The Ruff Life Inn takes pet-friendly accommodations to the next level. This bed & breakfast is designed with both human and canine guests in mind.

Accommodations: Comfortable rooms with direct access to outdoor areas for pets
Amenities: On-site doggie daycare, grooming services, and dog-walking trails
Location: Proximity to pet-friendly hiking trails and outdoor dining options
Special touches: “Yappy Hour” social events for dogs and their owners

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort (Tucson)

Part of the luxury Loews chain, this resort in Tucson goes above and beyond with its “Loews Loves Pets” program.

Pet amenities: Specialized room service menu for pets, pet beds, and litter boxes
Services: Dog-walking route maps, pet-sitting, and veterinarian contact information
Unique feature: “Puppy Pager” service for guests who need to leave their pet in the room

Lazy Dog Camp (Maricopa)

For a more rustic experience, Lazy Dog Camp offers a unique camping experience designed for dog lovers.

Accommodation options: Vintage trailers, tents, and RV spots
Dog-specific amenities: Off-leash play areas, agility courses, and dog wash stations
Activities: Guided hikes, pet photography sessions, and doggy social events
Human comforts: Wi-Fi, communal fire pits, and outdoor movie nights

Accessible Unique Stays: Inclusive Adventures in Arizona

Travelers with disabilities shouldn’t have to compromise on unique experiences. These accommodations offer both accessibility and distinctive environments.

Ability360 Center (Phoenix)

While primarily known as a fitness center for people with disabilities, Ability360 offers a few guest rooms for out-of-town visitors.

Accommodations: Fully accessible rooms with roll-in showers and adjustable beds
Amenities: Access to the center’s state-of-the-art adaptive fitness equipment
Unique experience: Opportunity to participate in adaptive sports programs
Location: Central Phoenix, close to major attractions and medical facilities

Canyon Villas at Coral Ridge (St. George, UT)

Though technically just over the Arizona border in Utah, these villas offer easy access to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and a unique, accessible vacation experience.

Accommodations: Fully accessible vacation rentals with wide doorways and roll-in showers
Amenities: Accessible pools with lifts, paved trails, and adaptive equipment rentals
Location: Proximity to Zion National Park and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon
Unique feature: Custom accessibility options available upon request

Budget-Friendly Unique Options: Extraordinary Stays Without Breaking the Bank

Unique doesn’t always mean expensive. These budget-friendly options offer distinctive experiences at more accessible price points.

The Shady Dell (Bisbee)

Step back in time at The Shady Dell, where guests can stay in meticulously restored vintage trailers from the 1940s and 1950s.

Accommodation options: Airstream trailers, bus conversions, and even a yacht
Amenities: Period-appropriate decor and appliances, shared bathrooms
Unique touch: On-site 50’s diner open for breakfast and lunch
Location: Historic Bisbee, known for its quirky atmosphere and mining history

Grand Canyon International Hostel (Flagstaff)

For budget-conscious travelers looking for a social atmosphere, this hostel in a historic building offers a unique base for exploring northern Arizona.

Accommodation options: Dorm-style and private rooms
Amenities: Communal kitchen, free breakfast, and social areas
Unique features: Organized group trips to nearby attractions, including the Grand Canyon
Location: Downtown Flagstaff, close to breweries, restaurants, and the famous Lowell Observatory

Extreme Weather Accommodations: Embracing Arizona’s Climate

Arizona’s climate can be extreme, but these unique stays offer ways to either escape or fully experience the state’s distinctive weather patterns.

Ice House Tavern (Phoenix)

While not an overnight accommodation, this bar built inside an ice rink offers a unique way to escape the summer heat and could be paired with nearby hotels for a cool experience.

Unique feature: Watch ice skaters while enjoying a cold drink in air-conditioned comfort
Location: Central Phoenix, easily accessible from various hotels
Experience: A stark contrast to the typical desert environment

Goldfield Ghost Town (Apache Junction)

Stay in a “haunted” room at the Mammoth Steakhouse & Saloon and experience the desert’s dramatic temperature changes.

Accommodations: Rustic rooms with Old West decor
Unique experience: Ghost tours and reenactments of Old West gunfights
Climate feature: Experience hot days and cool nights typical of the desert
Location: Near the Superstition Mountains, offering scenic views and hiking opportunities

Farm and Ranch Stays: Agricultural Adventures in Arizona

For those interested in agritourism, these farm and ranch stays offer a chance to experience Arizona’s agricultural side.

Aravaipa Farms Orchard and Inn (Winkelman)

Nestled in the scenic Aravaipa Canyon, this working orchard and farm offers a peaceful retreat with a focus on sustainable agriculture.

Accommodations: Cozy casitas with views of the surrounding orchards
Activities: Fruit picking, farm-to-table dining, and guided nature walks
Unique feature: Stargazing opportunities in one of Arizona’s darkest sky areas
Location: Proximity to Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness for hiking and wildlife viewing

Windmill Winery (Florence)

This working winery offers a few on-site accommodations, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the vineyard experience.

Accommodations: Rustic barn loft and vintage trailer options
Activities: Wine tasting, vineyard tours, and seasonal grape harvesting
Unique feature: Wedding and event venue with picturesque lake and gardens
Location: Historic Florence, known for its Wild West heritage

Architectural Marvels: Staying in Arizona’s Iconic Buildings

For architecture enthusiasts, these unique places to stay in Arizona offer a chance to experience iconic designs firsthand.

Price House (Paradise Valley)

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this private residence occasionally opens for overnight stays, offering a rare opportunity to live in a Wright-designed space.

Unique feature: Original Wright furniture and design elements
Accommodations: Guest rooms within the main house structure
Experience: Immersion in Wright’s organic architecture philosophy
Location: Exclusive Paradise Valley area with mountain views

Taliesin West (Scottsdale)

While not offering overnight stays, architecture enthusiasts can take nighttime tours of Wright’s winter home and studio for a unique after-hours experience.

Unique feature: “Night Lights” tour showcasing Wright’s use of light and shadow
Experience: Explore Wright’s living quarters, drafting studio, and theater
Location: Foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale
Nearby stays: Several unique boutique hotels in Old Town Scottsdale complement the Taliesin West experience

These additional unique places to stay in Arizona offer experiences that cater to specific interests and needs, from pet owners to architecture buffs. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options, accessible accommodations, or a chance to immerse yourself in Arizona’s agricultural heritage, these distinctive lodging choices provide opportunities to make your visit to the Grand Canyon State truly memorable. By exploring these hidden gems and specialized accommodations, travelers can discover new facets of Arizona’s diverse landscape and culture, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

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Conclusion: Embracing Arizona’s Diverse Lodging Landscape

Arizona’s unique places to stay offer travelers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the state’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and natural wonders. From luxury resorts and glamping sites in the desert to rustic cabins in the mountains, and from urban boutique hotels to underground cave suites, the Grand Canyon State provides an array of extraordinary accommodations to suit every preference and budget.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or simply a one-of-a-kind getaway, Arizona’s lodging options go far beyond the ordinary. By choosing one of these unique places to stay, you’ll not only enjoy comfortable and memorable accommodations but also gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the Southwest.

As you plan your next trip to Arizona, consider stepping off the beaten path and opting for one of these distinctive lodging experiences. Your choice of accommodation can be just as exciting and enriching as the destinations you visit, turning your Arizona adventure into a truly unforgettable journey.

Remember to book well in advance, especially for the more popular or limited-availability options, and always check for any seasonal considerations or special requirements. With so many unique places to stay in Arizona, your biggest challenge may be deciding which extraordinary accommodation to choose for your next visit to the Grand Canyon State.