12 Incredible & Unique Places to Stay in Arizona

Arizona knocked my socks off when I first visited. The state is massive and diverse, from saguaro-studded deserts to pine forests and the grandest canyon on Earth. What surprised me most? The absolutely wild places you can spend the night.

I spent a week in Jerome, an old mining town clinging to the mountainside, where I stayed in a hotel that was once a hospital. Near Flagstaff, I discovered affordable cabins surrounded by ponderosa pines where you can actually hear elk bugling at dawn. The best places in Arizona combine dramatic scenery with unforgettable experiences. From transparent bubble domes under starry skies to luxurious desert resorts with cactus views, here are 12 incredible stays that will make your Arizona trip unforgettable.

Best Places to Stay in Arizona

Looking to uncover unique places to stay in Arizona? Beyond the typical accommodations, the state offers plenty of distinctive options waiting to be explored. 

Whether you’re into adventure, luxury, or unique experiences, here are 12 of Arizona’s most unique places to stay!

1. Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn

Thinking of sleeping where no stars shine and silence is so complete you can hear your own heartbeat?

Imagine sleeping 220 feet underground in the largest dry cavern in the United States. Grand Canyon Caverns offers this rare adventure with their underground Cavern Suite, the deepest hotel room in America. Located just 22 miles from Route 66 in Peach Springs, this otherworldly stay puts you near the Grand Canyon’s West Rim and Havasu Falls.

The property balances geological wonder with practical amenities. Enjoy hearty meals at the Cavern Grotto restaurant while surrounded by ancient limestone formations. During my visit, the absolute silence created the most profound sleeping experience ever.

Above ground, comfortable motel rooms and an RV park provide more conventional options. The on-site trail system lets you explore the high desert landscape at your own pace, perfect for thrill-seekers and geology buffs looking for a story worth telling.

• Read next: 12 Amazingly Beautiful Places in the Grand Canyon

2. Clear Sky Resorts

When was the last time you fell asleep counting actual stars instead of scrolling through your phone?

Stargaze from your bed through a transparent dome ceiling in this glamping paradise just 30 minutes from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim entrance. Clear Sky Resorts blends luxury with nature immersion, offering spacious dome accommodations with king beds, private bathrooms, and climate control.

Each uniquely themed dome features panoramic windows that frame Arizona’s legendary dark skies and sunsets. The property’s hub area buzzes with activity, hosting nightly s’mores around the communal fire pit near Kaibab National Forest trails.

Their adventure concierge can arrange helicopter tours, rafting, or guided hikes. You’re perfectly positioned between the Grand Canyon and the quirky town of Williams, where Route 66 nostalgia lives on in classic diners and shops I couldn’t get enough of.

3. White Stallion Ranch

Channel your inner cowboy without sacrificing that king bed and hot shower you’ve earned after a decade in the corporate saddle.

Saddle up at this authentic working dude ranch where generations of wranglers have introduced guests to the cowboy way of life. Just 30 minutes west of downtown Tucson, White Stallion Ranch sits on 3,000 acres bordering Saguaro National Park.

The all-inclusive experience features twice-daily horseback rides tailored to your skill level. I couldn’t believe how quickly their patient wranglers transformed me from nervous beginner to confident rider.

Comfortable casitas blend Western authenticity with modern comforts. Family-style dining encourages connections with fellow guests. The proximity to Old Tucson Studios adds Hollywood Western history to your stay. Evening astronomer sessions reveal celestial wonders you’ve never seen before under some of America’s darkest skies.

4. Under Canvas Grand Canyon

Remember when camping meant sore backs and midnight bathroom treks? This is the grown-up, Instagram-worthy upgrade your vacation deserves.

Experience the Grand Canyon without sacrificing comfort at this luxury glamping resort on 160 acres of forest. Located just 25 minutes from the South Rim entrance, Under Canvas Grand Canyon offers safari-inspired canvas tents with king beds, wood-burning stoves, and private decks perfect for morning coffee.

The central lodge creates a social hub for complimentary breakfast before exploring Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. Evenings bring guided sunset hikes and stargazing with on-site astronomers.

They offer yoga sessions and naturalist talks about the region’s ecology. Their zero-waste philosophy lets you experience wilderness with minimal environmental impact. My favorite part was returning from hikes to a perfectly made bed, something traditional camping never offers.

5. The Caboose at Canyon Motel & RV Park

Remember that childhood obsession with trains? Here’s your chance to indulge it while your kids think you’re the coolest parent ever.

Channel your inner train conductor in this authentic 1929 Santa Fe railway caboose turned whimsical lodging. Located in Williams, Canyon Motel & RV Park has unique accommodation and sits just 59 miles from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and steps from the historic Grand Canyon Railway depot.

Inside the restored caboose you’ll find queen beds, a private bathroom, and charming railroad memorabilia. The property puts you within walking distance of Historic Route 66, where diners and western shops line the main street.

Kids love climbing into the cupola for a conductor’s view of the pine forests. The motel grounds feature a swimming pool, BBQ areas, and a fire pit where I traded Grand Canyon tips with other travelers, creating the perfect basecamp for family adventures.

6. The Blenman Inn

Need a vacation from planning everyone else’s vacation? This historic urban oasis lets someone else handle the details for once.

Step into Tucson’s storied past at this meticulously restored 1878 adobe mansion in the heart of the historic district. The Blenman Inn combines period charm with modern touches like plush bedding and high-speed WiFi.

Located minutes from downtown, you’re within walking distance of the Tucson Museum of Art and the shops of Fourth Avenue. Each morning begins with a gourmet breakfast featuring local ingredients, best enjoyed in the peaceful courtyard garden.

I found the innkeepers’ knowledge of hidden Tucson gems invaluable for discovering secret trails and local eateries. The property sits just 15 minutes from Saguaro National Park East, where iconic cacti create the quintessential Southwestern landscape, perfect for couples seeking a romantic retreat with access to both urban amenities and desert adventures.

7. Shash Dine Eco Retreat

Forget fake “authentic experiences”—this” is your chance to disconnect from WiFi and reconnect with something far more ancient.

Experience genuine Navajo hospitality at this off-grid glamping retreat on a working sheep ranch just 12 miles from Page. Shash Dine Eco Retreat offers traditional hogans, covered wagons, bell tents, and a restored sheepherder’s wagon with stunning Mesa views.

You’re within 20 minutes of Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon while enjoying cultural immersion beyond typical tourist experiences. Hosts share traditional stories around the evening fire and serve Navajo-inspired breakfasts with blue corn porridge.

Solar showers and composting toilets remind you that you’re treading lightly on sacred land. The absence of electricity ensures spectacular stargazing that left me speechless. The location between Echo Cliffs and Vermilion Cliffs provides otherworldly sunset views that photographers dream about.

8. Trapper’s Rendezvous

Tired of explaining to your kids why the A/C bill is so high? Escape to a mountain paradise where “natural cooling” is actually a thing.

Escape to authentic log cabins nestled among tall pines in Arizona’s White Mountains. Located in Greer at 8,500 feet elevation, Trapper’s Rendezvous offers a cool summer retreat just three hours from Phoenix’s desert heat.

Each cabin features handcrafted furniture, wood-burning stoves, and covered porches perfect for wildlife watching. The property puts you minutes from Big Lake and the streams of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, where I caught the biggest trout of my life on a quiet morning.

Cabins have full kitchens, but Molly Butler Lodge nearby means you can enjoy mountain cuisine without cooking. Experience four distinct seasons, with summer wildflowers, autumn aspens, winter skiing, and perfect spring hiking along the nearby Mogollon Rim trails.

9. The Kiva Cave Creek

When the beige boxes of chain hotels have you contemplating a career as a nomad, this architectural masterpiece offers salvation.

Discover architectural artistry at this adobe-style boutique inn inspired by ancient Pueblo dwellings. Perched on a desert hillside 30 minutes north of Scottsdale, The Kiva Cae Creek features curved walls, beehive fireplaces, and windows framing views of Black Mountain.

Each room incorporates natural elements while providing premium bedding and spa-inspired bathrooms. The inn’s location in bohemian Cave Creek puts you near western saloons, art galleries, and Bryan’s Black Mountain BBQ.

Mornings begin with a southwest-inspired breakfast served on a patio overlooking saguaro-studded hillsides. For adventure seekers, the property sits minutes from Cave Creek Regional Park trails. I was amazed by how the inn’s intimate size ensures personalized service that larger resorts simply can’t match.

10. Tucson Mountain Retreat

Finally, a vacation rental where “desert views” doesn’t mean staring at your neighbor’s cactus collection through a chain-link fence.

Hide away in this adobe-style home nestled against saguaro-studded foothills west of Tucson. Tucson Mountain Retreat offers complete privacy on five acres bordering Tucson Mountain Park, just 15 minutes from the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Old Tucson.

The home embraces indoor-outdoor living with multiple patios, an outdoor shower, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing mountain views. A fully equipped kitchen lets you prepare meals using local ingredients from nearby farmers’ markets.

You’re perfectly positioned for Gates Pass, where I joined locals to witness Arizona’s legendary sunset displays. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound with resident javelinas and roadrunners. Despite feeling remote, you’re just 25 minutes from downtown Tucson’s vibrant restaurant scene.

11. The Verde Dairy Cottage

Wine country without the Napa prices? Yes, please. The Verde Dairy Cottage is where you smugly Instagram while your friends battle Bay Area traffic.

Step back in time at this restored 1930s dairy worker’s cottage in Verde Valley wine country. Located in Cottonwood, just 20 minutes from Sedona’s red rocks, this accommodation blends historic character with modern comfort.

Original hardwood floors and vintage fixtures honor the building’s past. The cottage puts you within walking distance of Old Town Cottonwood’s tasting rooms for sampling local wines without driving concerns.

I was amazed by the peaceful atmosphere despite being just blocks from restaurants like Nic’s Italian Steak & Crab House. Use this central location to explore Tuzigoot National Monument, kayak the Verde River, or visit Jerome’s ghost town. The private backyard garden with fire pit provides a tranquil space after adventure-filled days.

12. Kachina Treehouse Cabin

Remember that treehouse you always wanted as a kid? This is that, but with craft cocktails and no need to ask your parents’ permission.

Elevate your Arizona experience in Kachina Treehouse Cabin, perched among ponderosa pines in Flagstaff’s forests. The Kachina Treehouse rises 15 feet above the forest floor, blending rustic charm with contemporary comfort through its windows and custom woodwork.

Located 15 minutes from downtown Flagstaff and 90 minutes from the Grand Canyon, this unique accommodation offers access to both urban exploration and natural wonders. The 7,000-foot elevation provides relief from summer heat, while proximity to the Arizona Snowbowl makes it ideal for winter skiing.

Morning coffee on the wraparound deck often comes with wildlife visits that made my stay unforgettable. You’re just minutes from Flagstaff’s historic downtown, where Dark Sky Brewing Co. and farm-to-table restaurants create a sophisticated mountain town scene.

• Read Next: 12 Areas to Stay in Phoenix for Every Budget

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unique Places to Stay in Arizona

Are you looking for more content about where to stay in Arizona? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Arizona’s most unique hotels.

Where do celebrities stay when they come to Phoenix?

Celebrities visiting Phoenix often opt for luxury and privacy. A popular choice is the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort in Paradise Valley. It’s known for its stunning views, exceptional spa, and top-notch privacy. Another favorite is the Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, famous for its historic architecture and luxurious amenities. This is one of the best spa resorts in Arizona which often attracts celebrities.

What is the best time to visit Arizona?

The best time to visit Arizona is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. Spring brings beautiful desert blooms, while fall offers comfortable hiking weather. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in areas like Phoenix and Tucson.

Is Arizona worth visiting?

Absolutely! Arizona is a fantastic destination with diverse attractions. From the Grand Canyon’s awe-inspiring views to the vibrant arts and cultural scene in cities like Phoenix and Tucson, there’s something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking, biking, and exploring opportunities in Arizona’s unique desert landscapes. Not just merely visiting, you’ll also find a place in Arizona to live that feels just right for you.

What is the best spa hotel in Arizona?

One of the best spa hotels in Arizona is the Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa in Tucson. It offers a holistic wellness experience with a range of spa treatments, wellness activities, and luxurious accommodations. Another excellent choice is the Canyon Ranch in Tucson, renowned for its comprehensive wellness programs and serene environment.

Are there any resorts in AZ?

Arizona is home to many resorts catering to various tastes and budgets. In the Phoenix and Scottsdale area, resorts like The Phoenician and the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offer luxury stays with golf courses, spas, and fine dining. For a more nature-focused retreat, consider L’Auberge de Sedona in beautiful Sedona, with stunning red rock views and outdoor activities.

Recap: Arizona’s Unique Places to Stay

In my travels through Arizona, I’ve discovered that this state is more than just desert landscapes and the Grand Canyon. Each unique accommodation in AZ adds its own flavor to the experience. My personal favorite has to be Under Canvas Grand Canyon. The blend of luxury and nature there is unmatched. Sleeping under the stars in a comfortable tent is an experience I’ll never forget.

Whether you’re looking for a rustic adventure in a cabin, the luxury of a spa hotel, or the charm of a historic inn, Arizona has it all. Each place offers its own unique story and way to experience the rich diversity of this beautiful state. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Arizona in a way that suits your style and preferences. You’re in for an unforgettable journey!