Arizona is a wonderland of beautiful desert terrain, magical sunsets, and picturesque prickly cacti. A hub for outdoor activities and relaxation, this remarkable state just might be your best pick for your 2021 family vacation.
Most resorts offer some of the best experiences possible to highlight that specific location’s greatest features. In Arizona, you will find remarkable resorts that have activities and amenities including, but not limited to, pools, hiking trails, golf courses, and other outdoor activities. And let me tell you, you do not want to miss out on these incredible experiences!
We know there is a lot of information out there pulling you in a billion different directions when it comes to, well, anything… but this especially seems true when you are trying to make the best decision you can on where to stay on your vacation!
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Below you will find well-researched options for the best kid-friendly family resorts in Arizona that have been narrowed down to truly the top few best places to vacation in Arizona. We hope you find exactly what you and your family are looking for!
1. Great Wolf Lodge – Scottsdale
This wonder-filled resort is very kid-oriented with an expansive water park, climbing wall, scavenger hunts, mini-golf, ropes course, bowling, arcade, a Build-a-Bear workshop, and more! Great Wolf Lodge is fun for the whole family as parents and kids can go on these adventures together, and guests can pick from a nice selection of deals and packages that make your trip planning easier.
With multiple dining options, adults 21+ have the option to relax with a beverage in hand at one of the bars, including the Watering Hole that can be found in the water park. These restaurants provide a nice opportunity for families to be together while enjoying delicious, locally sourced and well-crafted meals.
It goes without saying at this point that Great Wolf Lodge is one of the best resorts to vacation with your kids. Their kids programs are unmatched and neither you nor your cubs will be disappointed.
2. The Phoenician – Scottsdale
A resort that is unique to Phoenix, as the name suggests, you won’t find a resort quite like The Phoenician! If you are looking for a resort a bit more local and something you can’t find anywhere else, this luxurious resort is perfect for your family vacation.
The Phoenician is a beautiful, sand-colored, broad building that is set perfectly at the base of Camelback Mountain. Arranged in a semi-circle, the balconies of half of the guestrooms face inwardly, overlooking a grand sprawl of several sparkling pools, twinkling string lights, palm trees, and cozy fire pit areas. The other half of the rooms face toward the mountain, giving guests a more natural view of the side of the mountain, filled with vibrant cacti and bushes laid out on rock terraces.
The Phoenician is simultaneously a luxury resort that gives adults the rest and relaxation they need and also a space packed with family-friendly activities. With 5 pools, an activity center, the Funicians Kids Club, and more, you and your family will not get bored on this vacation. With something to do for every age, the Phoenician is truly one of the best resorts you could pick in Arizona.
3. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch – Scottsdale
With sky-reaching palm trees, stunning landscaping, and wide open space to golf, swim, dine, walk, and more, the Hyatt Regency in Scottsdale is a multi-faceted family vacation gem. The resort is in a perfect, central location, making it easy to access all the other activities that Scottsdale has to offer.
A top tier golf course hugs the side of the resort, making an afternoon of golfing amidst the beautiful Arizonian landscape a quick walk away from your hotel room. A spa, the golf course, several restaurants, and private gazebos are just a few activities that adults will enjoy at this exquisite resort.
4. Enchantment Resort – Sedona
In Sedona, AZ, you and your family will want to be outside as much as possible. The Enchantment Resort offers ample opportunities for you and your kids to experience the magnificent land that makes up Sedona.
Fixed within the red rocks of Boynton Canyon, this resort offers a backdrop like no other. Adobe-style architecture with nods to Native American culture and nestled amongst bushy green trees complements the red of the terrain beautifully. You will not want to leave this dreamy resort!
The Trail House is an outfit unique to Enchantment Resort that offers a selection of name-brand retail and gear for outdoor activities, guided hikes for 300+ miles of trails, and bike rentals. If your family has a knack for outdoor activities, check out the Trail House during your stay!
5. Junipine Resort – Sedona
For a bit of a more modest, charming, and off-the-beaten-path experience, the Junipine Resort is a good candidate for you and your family. Their lodging, known as “creekhouses,” offers a perfect getaway. With many of the creekhouses having multiple sleeping spaces, your kids can have their own space, which can be a nice arrangement for everyone.
With a lot of outdoor spaces and activities, Junipine is the perfect resort for people who love the outdoors. From relaxing in a chair on your creekhouse porch to hiking around the resort’s trails, you can get the full woodsy Arizonian experience at this resort.
6. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort – Tucson
For a family-friendly stay in the southern part of Arizona, we recommend the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort. With great hospitality in mind, this resort is jam-packed with stunning views, good food, and activities for children and adults.
This resort has two pools, one of which is adult only. You can have a fun family day at the pool one day, and a relaxing poolside experience with drink in hand at the adults-only pool the next. Other activities to do with the whole family include hiking near the resort and stargazing with a real astronomer.
