11 Historic Hotels in Arizona You’ll Love!
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I’m a history buff, always on the lookout for cool hotels where I can soak in the historic vibe of the property. I love staying at hotels with character and charm and often plan my itinerary around which historic properties I want to enjoy. As a frequent visitor to Arizona, I’ve stayed at many lovely historic hotels. I can confidently say there are more than a few great choices if you’re looking for historic hotels in Arizona. Read on for my picks for the best historic hotels in Arizona.
If you don’t have time to read my whole article, La Posada in Winslow gets the win for being the most vibey historic hotel in the land. The architecture, the design, all the nooks and crannies, and the Spanish and Native American influence. Did I mention that the OG Southwestern architectect and designer, Mary Colter, has her stamp all over La Posada? This is the coolest historic Arizona hotel (top 3 coolest ANYWHERE) I’ve ever stayed at!
1. La Posada – Winslow, AZ
Step into a bygone era at the fabulous LaPosada in Winslow, Arizona. This historic hotel, built in 1912 and designed by architect Mary Colter, is a stunning. It’s like, is this hotel even for real?? It’s more like a Spanish hacienda, which is what Mary Colter based her vision on. Enjoy the gorgeous adobe architecture and decor as you wander the two-story hotel located directly on historic Route 66!
Ask for a room overlooking the rail tracks out back. It’s fun to open your windows and watch the trains fly by. This is one of the very best historic hotel stays I’ve done. I love La Posada so much I’m writing an entire post about this iconic hotel.
Address: 303 East 2nd (Route 66) Winslow, AZ
2. Connor Hotel – Jerome, Arizona
Jerome is an old mining town built on a mountain. After the mines dried up, Jerome turned into a ghost town. It’s since been revived and thrives today as a quirky tourist town worth a visit. I will tell you getting here is not fun unless you like making hairpin turns up the side of a mountain with no guard rails in sight. We’re talking elevation of about 5,000 feet, so not exactly a little hill.
Maybe it’s me since I’m from the plains of Nebraska- where it’s flat – but what’s up with locals bumper-hugging on those twisty strips of concrete? I’m just NOT going to be gettin’ after it right there no matter how close you get.
Now back to The Connor. The Connor Hotel sits directly on Main Street, where it’s been since 1898. With a saloon downstairs you can bet plenty of action has gone down here through the years. Cowboys and card games aside, this historic hotel is a good spot to check out if you’re looking for historic hotels in Arizona.
It’s thought to be haunted, so be on the lookout for paranormal activity. I didn’t investigate because that’s just not my thang!. Ghosts or not, enjoy modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and vintage furnishings. Some rooms of this very small hotel are directly over the bar. It can get loud so if you need uninterrupted sleep, get a room in the back.
Address: 160 Main Street, Jerome, AZ
3. El Tovar – Grand Canyon, Arizona
El Tovar has been on my list of historic hotels in Arizona to see for quite a while. Mary Coulter had a hand in decorating the El Tovar so I had to check it out. This year I finally made it happen and she’s a beauty.
Built in 1905, the historic hotel has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974 and is one-of-a-kind with plenty of turn-of-the-century charm. The 78 rooms are small and quirky, but all have private baths. The hotel is situated right on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, so you’re only a few steps from incredible views.
If money was no object this is where I’d stay every time in the Grand Canyon.. But since money is an object, I got creative. Every night I tried to book was WAY out of my price range but I still wanted to get a feel for the hotel, so we strolled around, then posted up at the El Tovar cocktail bar, which is open for walk-in service. We grabbed a table, had some apps and drinks and took in the views of the canyon out the window.
Sipping a cocktail while enjoying the hotel’s ambiance was just what I wanted – while not having to pay a small fortune. If you decide to stay a El Tovar, book early and keep trying if you can’t get your dates. The hotel regularly sells out far in advance but I’ve found that people cancel so rooms do open up.
Address: Grand Canyon Village, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
4. Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa- Tucson, Arizona
What makes the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa special is it’s spectacular Southwestern-inspired design. The Westward Look was originally built as a hacienda for the Watson family in 1912. The ranch has changed hands since then, and undergone renovations, but has managed to keep it’s original look and feel while incorporating all the amenities you’d expect from a AAA Four-Diamond property! This place is swanky without being pretentious.
The Watson’s adobe ranch home now serves as the hotel lobby, gift shop and meeting rooms. Originally built at the base of the Catalina Mountains on 170+ acres, the Westwood Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa still offers stunning views of the mountains and the city lights of Tucson.
Enjoy the gardens and desert landscape as you wander through the gorgeously manicured expansive grounds. You’ll enjoy lush accommodations, including a private balcony, at any one of the 214 guest rooms. We loved watching the sunset from our balcony. Tucson is a designated Dark Sky city, so it gets super dark after the sun goes down. It’s unbelievable for stargazing.
Amenities include the lovely Sonoran Spa, three swimming pools, multiple tennis courts, nature trails, a labyrinth, fitness center and the onsite, delicious Palm restaurant.
Address: 245 East Ina Road, Tucson, AZ
5. High Country Motor Lodge – Flagstaff, Arizona
This former chain motel has undergone extensive renovations to become a modern and funky Flagstaff mountain oasis. The outside looks like a motorlodge from the late 60s. You know the ones that could be a little (LOT) sketchy?? Well don’t judge a book by the cover because the H.C.M.L is anything but sketchy.
We loved the retro high-end feel of this hip spot. The plush, bar area offers plenty of seating options and opens onto the large deck. Outside, gather around the glass-enclosed fire pits or the large green space in the center of the property. Enjoy the rejuvenation of a Nordic spa and plunge pool. Afterward, stop into the General Store for snacks. With 123 guest rooms, there’s plenty of space at this new version of an old standard, the High Country Motor Lodge.
Address: 1000 West Route 66, Flagstaff, Arizona
More Historic Hotels In Arizona
6. The Painted Desert Inn – Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
The Painted Desert Inn in Petrified Forest National Park is a magnificentl historical landmark in central Arizona. Acquired by the National Park Service in the 1930s, it’s another masterpiece of gorgeous Southwestern architecture and design by Mary Colter.
I know I’m gushing at this point but I just can’t in awe of Mary Colter’s vision. On the National Register of Historic Places since 1987, designer Mary Coulter this property embodies her distinctive Southwestern style. The Painted Desert and the Painted Desert Inn are part of he Petrified Forest National Park, so if you plan to visit one, it’s just as easy to see all three.
Walking through the rooms of this adobe inn you’ll see Pueblo-inspired design at every turn. Painted in muted shades of orange and taupe, it seamlessly blends into the desert landscape. You’ll find arched doorways, adobe walls with intricately painted murals, and beautifully restored windows that offer a view of the stunning Painted Dessert. While the property is no longer an inn, you can almost feel the past as you wander through the hotel.
Address: The Painted Desert Inn is in the Petrified Forest National Park.
7. Hotel Congress – Tucson, Arizona
The popular Hotel Congress in downtown Tucson has been a hotspot since its opening in 1919. Look no further if you’re looking for a legit vintage vibe, complete with original furniture, janky staircase, and historic charm.. You may even find‘old spirits and souls from days past as rumour has it that four rooms of this hotel are specifically known for their paranormal activity.
This historic hotel in Arizona has served legendary figures including gunslinger John Dillinger and other outlaws. Toda it’s a hub of downtown Tucson with a bar that seems to have events almost nightly, the locals love the Hotel Congress as much as travelers do. Bonus: the Cup Cafe is award-winning, including a Best of Tucson award.
Address: 311 East Congress Street, Tucson, Arizona
8. Wigwam Motel – Holbrook, Arizona
Tiny Holbrook, Arizona’s claim to fame is the historic and iconic Wigwam Motel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, each room” is a teepee. We pulled up here after touring the Petrified Forest National Park. It’s mezmerizing! The Wigwam is so cool! Trust me, it’s definitely not fancy, but Its real. It looks like nothing has changed since atleast the 1950s.
The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook has 15 concrete and steel teepee-shaped buildings that offer the authentic quirkiness you’d expect from a classic Route 66 motel. Especially in the bathroom, you’ll find curved walls, and a tiny shower stall. Each teepee offers a cozy respite complete with a private bathroom and air conditioning. To go along with the retro vibe, you’ll find classic cars parked out front.
You’ll also hear the trains passing by on the tracks outback. It can be loud – even when you’re inside your wigwam. But, if you’re looking for true Route 66 nostalgia, the Wigwam is one place you’ll want to stop. Even if you don’t end up booking a teepee for the night, you’ll atleast want to take a look around and snap some photos of the vintage cars and grounds.
Address: 811 West Hopi Drive, Holbrook, AZ 86025
9. Arabella – Sedona, Arizona
Now we come to one of Arizona’s most beautiful towns – Sedona! I tell everyone to go to Sedona because it’s just THAT gorgeous. It’s kind of over run with tourists at this point, so make sure you follow the Leave No Trace principals and be a good human. Even with so many people converging in Sedona, it’s still worth seeing. This 144 room historic hotel in Sedona is one you’ll want to check out.The Arabella is named after Sedona Arabella Miller Schnebly, the town’s namesake who arrived in Arizona Territory with her husband, Theodore Carlton (TC) Schnebly, back in 1901
The property is built on land that once housed the original Sedona Lodge – the town’s very first hotel. Through the years, the hotel has undergone several transformations. Back in the 1960s, the hotel was known as The King’s Ransom, inspired by Elvis Presley who was here filming often.
Today this historic hotel in Arizona offers multiple pools and hottubs for lounging as well as gorgeous views of Sedona’s red rocks. You’ll enjoy complimentary breakfast, cruiser bikes, and a perfect jumping-off point for all the great Sedona hiking. Make sure you check out Mole Fine Cuisine of Mexico the onsite restaurant where you can dine authentic Mexican fare.
Address: 725 Highway 179, Sedona, AZ
10. The Hermosa Inn – Scottsdale, Arizona
The Hermosa Inn is a marvelous AAA Four-Diamond historic hotel in Arizona where you’ll find luxurious digs combined with historic vibes. The hotel was once a turn-of-the-century private home of the painter Lon Megargee. Today the Hermosa Inn offers 43 hacienda-style rooms and casitas where you’ll find all the comforts of home in a cozy and cushy atmosphere. You won’t find any cookie-cutter hotel rooms here. Instead, you’ll be pampered in your over-sized space with plush bedding and comfortable, high-end decor. The restaurant, Lon’s at the Hermosa, serves tasty farm-to-table cuisine with a Southwestern flair. Enjoy the great location near Camelback Mountain and Old Town Scottsdale. In Old Town, go to the Rusy Spur for my fav prickly pear margarita!
Address: 5532 North Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley, Arizona
11. Weatherford Hotel – Flagstaff, Arizona
Established in 1900, The Weathreford Hotel is a quaint, 17 room Victorian-style hotel in downtown Flagstaff. This historic hotel offers a glimpse into the frontier days of old Arizona with period details and antique furnishings. It’s easy to imagine the cowboys and travelers that came passing through back in the day.
Today, the hotel is a mecca for Flagstaff’s nightlife. With multiple bars, the Weatherford is a good option for drinks downtown. Known as an entertainment complex in downtown Flagstaff, the hotel features a restaurant, fun pubs with live music and event venues. While you’re in town, go the Lowell Observatory and see the stars. Flagstaff is the original USA Dark Sky city. And yeah, it’s super dark here!
Address: 23 N. Leroux Street, Flagstaff, AZ
Historic Hotels in Arizona: Wrap Up
There you have it, my picks for the top historic hotels in Arizona. You can find just about anything you’re looking for in Arizona: sun, heat, snow, desert, mountains, loud crowded cities and quiet tiny towns. Whatever you plan to do, make it a point to stay at one of these great historic hotels in Arizona.