Hotel of the Week

October 21, 2026

Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts

The nearly century-old granddaddy of Phoenix resorts.

◆ 2400 E Missouri Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85016, United States ◆

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Our Review

Reviewed by Megan Spurrell

Why book?

This historic hotel—built in 1929 by an architect who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright—has seen decades of desert glamour and celebrity, but a much-needed refresh means the amenities speak to today’s travelers: there’s an adults-only pool and a massive waterslide for kids, a mezcal and Pan-Latin restaurant, and a New Age spa with astrology-inspired treatments.

Set the scene

I jetted in from the Phoenix airport to the nearby suburb where this giant property is located and realized there’s no need to leave. You’re here to be here, though the surrounding desert landscape and Piestewa Peak in full view behind the main lawn deliver the you’re-in-Arizona memo. Walking the snaking passageways from one building to another, you’ll see families with small kids toddling toward the waterslide, bachelorettes booking out cabanas at the adults-only Saguaro pool, couples unwinding over brisket dinners, and conference attendees power walking through the hallways as they plot out how to escape to the mister-covered Spire Bar at some point.

The rooms

For a hotel with over 700 rooms (amazingly, it doesn’t feel like it), each manages to feel classically luxurious without steering into the cold or cookie-cutter. Plush beds, desert artwork, and bulbous ceramic lamps all over the room feel both Southwestern and tony. Stay in a Citrus Club room for lounge access (it’s pretty legit), or book a bungalow for a little extra privacy.

Food and drink

For a resort where you plan to stick on-site most of your time, the food has to deliver—by and large, it does. McArthur’s serves reliable American classics, though Renata's Hearth with its smoke-inspired menu is the place to dress up and dine after a long day in the sun.

The neighborhood/area

Phoenix is constantly growing and ever-expanding. I struggled to leave the pool, but with a couple more days I definitely would have headed to the Heard Museum for Native American art, or hopped around eating great Mexican food.

Worth it?

Yes. You could come here just for the spa, but the food, service, views, and more make for a well-rounded stay.

Reviewed by Rebecca Misner

The Global Ambassador

Upon arrival, you feel like you’ve touched down somewhere in Europe: Peek outside at the sweet pool with its pink-striped chaise lounges and orange-with-white-piping sun umbrellas, and you’ll swear you’re on the Amalfi Coast. Despite the abundant modern touches (and complete lack of Southwest design aesthetic), the backdrop of the magnificent Camelback Mountain will remind you exactly where you are. The cutting-edge spa and fitness offerings nicely round out this stylish, sophisticated hotel—one that feels totally transportive yet exactly right for this fast-changing desert city.

◆ 4360 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85018, United States ◆

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