A Wellness & Resort Destination
Long before Scottsdale became a bachelorette-party punchline, the Valley was a wellness destination. Warm, dry winters brought East Coast snowbirds here a century ago, and resorts like the Arizona Biltmore and the Camelback Inn built the template for the desert luxury resort: sprawling grounds, mountain views, and spa culture built right in. That legacy is still very much alive, and it's a genuinely fun part of living here, not just something for tourists.
Locals use these resorts too, for a staycation, a spa day, or just a day pass to a great pool in July. Here are my go-tos across Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, and Phoenix, plus how to get day access without booking a room.
Iconic Go-Tos
Open since 1929, with Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture, seven pools, and a guest list that includes every U.S. president since Herbert Hoover.
A grand, terraced resort at the base of Camelback Mountain, known for its cactus garden, multiple pools, and genuinely five-star service.
A Mediterranean-style historic estate turned boutique resort, intimate and romantic, tucked right under Camelback Mountain.
Set against the Sonoran Desert and Pinnacle Peak, with sweeping mountain views from nearly every room and pool.
A sleek, modern resort built into the mountainside, home to the elements restaurant and one of the Valley's most serene spas.
Home to Oasis Water Park, a full water park with slides and a lazy river. The go-to for families and summer day trips.
More Valley Favorites
Home of the WM Phoenix Open golf tournament, with four pools and a lineup of seasonal light and holiday displays each winter.
A classic since 1936, one of the original Arizona resorts, with a casual, timeless feel and a highly rated golf course and spa.
Built right into a field of massive granite boulders, with casita-style rooms and one of the most unique settings in the Valley.
An all-inclusive wellness resort with daily fitness and meditation classes built into the stay, or the day pass.
Locals' Secret
You don't have to book a room to enjoy these resorts. Here's how locals get pool and spa access for the day.
A platform that sells day access to pools, cabanas, and spas at dozens of Valley resorts, book online and check in at the pool concierge, no room required.
Full water park day tickets available without a hotel stay, our go-to for a summer day with the kids.
A day pass into the resort's pool and wellness classes, with optional spa add-ons. Summer visits often include a food and beverage credit.
Several Scottsdale resorts sell their own pool day passes directly through ResortPass, a great, affordable way to feel like you're on vacation for an afternoon.