Arizona Biltmore Hotel Review

Located in the heart of Phoenix, this historic resort—often referred to as the "Jewel of the Desert" — offered a seamless transition from our adventurous travels to a world of refined comfort, world-class amenities, and architectural beauty. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by the resort’s Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere that felt like a well-deserved retreat.

The Arizona Biltmore was built as a luxurious retreat for wealthy travelers, and it quickly became a favorite among Hollywood elite and socialites. Over the years, it has hosted numerous famous guests, including Marilyn Monroe, John F. Kennedy, and Betty White. The hotel is known for its distinctive Wrightian design, which includes geometric patterns, sweeping arches, and the use of local materials like Arizona stone.

We had the pleasure of using our Hilton Honors points (click here to check out how we earned one million Hilton Honors points in just 17 months) for a multi-night stay at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel as the grand finale of our unforgettable road trip through New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona (click here to view that set of pages). After exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Southwest—including red rock formations, national parks, and desert vistas—our stay at the Arizona Biltmore was the perfect way to conclude our adventure. It provided a wonderful balance of relaxation and indulgence, making it the ideal place to unwind.

The Arizona Biltmore was a rejuvenating oasis where we could unwind, enjoy exquisite dining, and take in the resort’s timeless charm. Whether lounging by the sparkling pools, indulging in a meal at the resort, or simply strolling through the beautifully landscaped grounds, our stay at the Arizona Biltmore was a perfect and memorable conclusion to our Southwest adventure.

The Arizona Biltmore is part of the Hilton portfolio. It operates as part of Hilton's LXR Brand Hotels & Resorts, a luxury brand under the Hilton Hotel Corporation.

This review reflects our personal experiences and opinions based on our stay at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. We have not received any compensation or special considerations from the establishment for this review.

We don’t often splurge on luxury stays, but since this was the final stop in our long southwest road trip and since we had Hilton Honors points to cover the cost, we decided to go ahead and enjoy our last days in the Southwest in luxury. Plus our interest in history and architecture made this a unique place to stay and it ranks so highly on our list that it’s one of the places we frequently think about returning to. It’s also a fantastic location for a wedding, offering a beautiful backdrop for a memorable celebration.

The grounds are immaculate. The clean, minimalist, lines of the gardens and gathering spaces have such a unique feel that it makes this hotel stand out amongst luxury hotels. Anyone into architecture and/or urban design and gardens will love the spaces and the surroundings.

The Arizona Biltmore offers a variety of accommodations across multiple wings. We stayed in the Valley Wing, where our room was impeccably clean, modern, and well-maintained. The bed was incredibly comfortable, with plush pillows and luxurious bedding, making it a restful retreat after long days of exploring.

Here’s a look inside our room:

One of the highlights of our stay at the Arizona Biltmore was simply wandering through the resort and taking in the stunning architecture and landscaping. Designed with inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright, the resort’s clean lines, geometric patterns, and carefully curated outdoor spaces make it a dream for architecture lovers and anyone who appreciates beautiful design.

The intricate tile work, angular patterns, and bold architecture reflect the unmistakable influence of Frank Lloyd Wright, making every corner of the resort feel like a piece of art.

Throughout the property, you’ll find serene fountains, reflecting pools, and lush green spaces that create a peaceful retreat from the desert heat.

The pathways around the Biltmore are lined with towering palm trees, manicured gardens, and striking geometric facades that give the resort a timeless, elegant feel.

As the sun sets, the resort transforms with warm golden hues, glowing fire pits, and dramatic lighting that highlight the stunning design even further.

During our time at the resort, we enjoyed three of the five pools. The paradise pool is perfect for families and has a giant three-story high water slide! It is temperature-regulated, has a splash pad and air-conditioned cabanas for rent. Food and drink services are available at the pool and it is available for use 24x7. When we wanted a more adult vibe we hit the Saguaro Pool. This is an over 21 pool area serving food and drinks. It is also 24x7 and has a hot tub and cabanas for rent. When we wanted a more intimate area we visited the Terrace Court Pool which offered shaded areas perfect for eating.

We ate at the MacArthur's Restaurant onsite twice during our stay. We were somewhat tired of eating by the time we arrived at the Biltmore due to being on the road for several weeks…so we ate low-key and off-site a few times. McArthurs has casual food: a mix of small plates, salads, pizza, tacos, handhelds, etc.

Although we didn’t dine at Renata’s, the reviews rate it at 4.5 stars. This Latin-inspired restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere and unique dishes like "the essence of smoke" – a concept we’re eager to experience on our next visit. Don't make the same mistake we did and check out this restaurant if you want a memorable and romantic evening.

They do have an onsite cafe and ice cream shop called the Cup and Cone for your morning coffee or an afternoon treat. It was popular with families and an excellent way to cool down in the Arizona heat.

Points & Credits:

• Length of Stay: 3 nights (covered by 252,000 Hilton Honors points).
• Hilton Honors Diamond Status Daily Credit: Up to $50 per day, including arrival and departure days ($150 total credited).
• Self-Parking: $23 per night × 3 nights = $69.
• Resort Fee & Historical Preservation Fee: Normally $45 per day, but waived when booking with points.

Extra Night Cost (Due to Flight Cancellation)::

The Arizona Biltmore offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, each designed to provide guests with a unique and comfortable experience.

Guest Rooms:

• Resort Rooms:

  These chic and tranquil rooms are designed for ultimate relaxation, featuring elegant décor and modern amenities. Options include rooms with balconies or patios, and some even offer private fire pits for an intimate outdoor experience.

  The Resort Rooms are primarily situated in the Valley Wing, Paradise Wing, Garden Wing, and Ocatilla Wing. Each wing offers unique features and proximity to various resort amenities

• Valley Wing:

  Rooms in this wing provide easy access to the resort's main facilities and are known for their spacious layouts. ​

• Paradise Wing:

  Guests staying here enjoy close proximity to the Paradise Pool, making it ideal for families. ​

• Garden Wing:

  These rooms offer intimate experiences with views over the meticulously maintained Paradise Garden. ​

• Ocatilla Wing:

  This wing provides enhanced amenities and exclusive access to the Citrus Club Lounge, offering a more personalized experience.​

Suites:

• One-Bedroom Suites

  These spacious suites offer a separate living area and bedroom, providing ample space for relaxation or entertaining. They are well-suited for guests seeking additional comfort during their stay. ​

• Signature Suites

  For those desiring the utmost in luxury, the Signature Suites provide expansive spaces with enhanced amenities, ideal for hosting gatherings or enjoying a lavish retreat. ​

Cottages:

The historic cottages offer a private and serene getaway. Each cottage is uniquely designed, providing guests with a distinctive and personalized stay experience. Cottage rooms offer approximately 500 square feet, while the Citrus Club Cottage Suites provide around 830 square feet of space.

Villas:

The resort's villas are perfect for families or guests seeking a residential-style stay. These accommodations feature full kitchens, private bedrooms, and indoor/outdoor living spaces, offering the comforts of home within the luxury resort setting. Villas range from 1,200 square feet for one-bedroom units to 1,600 square feet for two-bedroom suites, providing ample space for families or groups.

The Arizona Biltmore boasts seven distinct pools, each offering a unique ambiance and set of amenities:​

1. Paradise Pool:

   A family-friendly area featuring a 65-foot triple waterslide known as "The Twist," a splash pad, swim-up bar, air-conditioned cabanas, and poolside dining options.

2. Saguaro Pool:

   An adults-only oasis open 24/7, equipped with a hot tub, cabanas, and food and drink service, providing a serene environment for relaxation.

3. Catalina Pool:

   Known for its historical significance and intimate setting, this pool was a favorite of Marilyn Monroe.

4. Ocatilla Pool:

   A more secluded pool option, offering a tranquil environment for guests.

5. Terrace Court Pool:

   Provides a peaceful retreat with shaded areas, perfect for relaxation.

6. Bougainvillea Villas Pool:

   Located near the villas, this pool offers a private and serene setting for guests. ​

7. Saguaro Villas Pool:

   Another intimate pool option, providing a quiet escape within the resort grounds. ​

The Arizona Biltmore Hotel offers an impressive array of dining options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences, from casual bites to fine dining experiences:

The Arizona Biltmore Hotel is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all guests, offering a range of ADA-compliant features throughout the resort. From accommodations to public spaces, the hotel ensures that guests with disabilities can navigate and enjoy their stay comfortably.

1. ADA-Accessible Guest Rooms & Suites:
   • Mobility-Accessible Rooms: Equipped with wider doorways, lower peepholes, and accessible furniture arrangements for ease of movement.
   • Roll-In Showers: Available in select rooms with grab bars, shower benches, and handheld showerheads.
   • Hearing-Accessible Rooms: Include visual alarms, doorbell notifications, and telephone amplifiers for guests with hearing impairments.
2. Public Areas & Facilities:
   • Elevator Access: All multi-story buildings have elevator access to ensure easy navigation.
   • Ramps & Pathways: Throughout the resort, ramps and smooth, paved pathways allow for wheelchair-friendly access to all major areas.
   • Accessible Restrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms are available in public spaces, featuring grab bars and spacious layouts.
   • Pool Accessibility: Lifts and other assistive devices are available at select pools, including the Paradise Pool and The Saguaro Pool.
3. Dining & Lounge Accessibility:
   • All restaurants, bars, and lounges are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible seating and accommodations for guests with mobility challenges.
4. Parking & Transportation:
   • Accessible Parking: Designated ADA parking spaces are available close to entrances.
   • Shuttle & Transportation Assistance: Guests requiring accessible transportation can arrange services through the concierge.
5. Service Animals Welcome:
   • In compliance with ADA guidelines, service animals are welcome throughout the resort.

The Fitness Center offers guests a state-of-the-art wellness experience, combining cutting-edge equipment, expert-led fitness classes, and a tranquil environment to support a balanced and healthy lifestyle. We worked out here several times during our stay and the area was not crowded and the staff were friendly.

Fitness Center Features:

Open daily, the Arizona Biltmore Fitness Center provides a seamless blend of luxury and wellness, allowing guests to stay active in a modern and inspiring setting. Whether you prefer a high-intensity session or a rejuvenating yoga flow, this premier fitness facility ensures you leave feeling refreshed, energized, and balanced.

 Image Credit: Arizona Biltmore Website.

The Arizona Biltmore Hotel offers a luxurious array of amenities designed to provide guests with an unforgettable stay. From world-class dining and relaxation to recreational activities and wellness experiences, the resort ensures every guest finds something to enjoy.

1. The Tierra Luna Spa & Sol Garden:

   A tranquil retreat offering a range of holistic treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. Guests can also experience the Sol Garden, featuring a hot tub, cold plunge, and a grounding ritual inspired by the Sonoran Desert.

2. Golf & Tennis:
   • The hotel has access to nearby championship golf courses, perfect for enthusiasts.
   • Tennis and pickleball courts are available for guests seeking an active experience.
3. Shopping & Boutiques:
   • Guests can browse luxury retail shops offering designer clothing, accessories, and resort wear.
   • Specialty stores feature locally crafted goods and souvenirs.
4. Meeting & Event Spaces:
   • The Arizona Biltmore is home to elegant ballrooms, outdoor venues, and conference spaces, making it ideal for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings.
5. Concierge & Transportation Services:
   • Luxury car service for easy transportation.
   • On-demand shuttles and ride-share assistance.
   • Concierge assistance for booking activities, excursions, and special experiences.
6. High-speed WiFi internet access throughout the resort:

   Ensuring guests stay connected whether they are in their rooms, by the pool, or in public areas. Standard WiFi is included for all guests as part of the resort fee, allowing for basic browsing, emails, and social media use.

   For guests who need faster speeds for video streaming, virtual meetings, or work-related tasks, an upgraded high-speed WiFi option is available for an additional fee.

There is a variety of on-site retail shops, each providing unique merchandise to enhance your stay:

• The Biltmore Shops: A curated collection of global treasures, including hand-painted tea sets from the Netherlands, textiles from India, and art from France. These items mirror the resort's aesthetic, allowing guests to bring a piece of the Biltmore experience home.
• Tierra Luna Spa Boutique: Located within the resort's spa, this boutique offers products inspired by the desert and cosmos. Featured items include the Palo Santo Signature Scent Candle, sage bundles, jewelry by local artisan Lucky Star, and the Lilfox skincare line.
• Arizona Biltmore Golf Shop: Adjacent to the resort's golf courses, this shop provides a range of golf apparel and equipment. The design seamlessly blends Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture with modern Southwest elements, enhancing the shopping experience.

For guests seeking additional shopping experiences, the nearby Biltmore Fashion Park offers over 60 specialty stores and upscale dining options. This luxury outdoor shopping center features retailers such as Anthropologie, Arhaus, and Saks Fifth Avenue, providing a diverse array of shopping and dining opportunities.

The hotel has easy access to some of the best hiking trails in Phoenix. Whether you're looking for challenging summit climbs, scenic desert walks, or casual strolls through the resort’s beautifully landscaped grounds, there are plenty of options for every level of hiker.

On-Property Walking and Jogging Paths

While the resort doesn’t have dedicated hiking trails, we found the beautifully landscaped pathways winding through the property perfect for a leisurely morning walk or a light jog. Strolling along these manicured paths, we enjoyed stunning views of the resort’s historic architecture, lush gardens, and the surrounding mountains—it was a peaceful way to start the day.

Just outside the resort, we discovered the Arizona Canal, which runs along the south side of the property. The Arizona Canal Trail, located on the opposite side of the canal, is a fantastic multi-use trail open to hikers, runners, and cyclists. Heading east, we had the option of hiking about eight miles to Scottsdale, while heading west, the trail stretched over 10 miles toward the Grand Canal and Westgate, passing through quiet neighborhoods, tree-lined sections, and even some colorful murals and public art. It was the perfect blend of urban hiking and scenic exploration right from the resort’s doorstep.

Nearby Hiking Trails

For those looking for authentic desert hiking experiences, several fantastic trails are located within a short drive or even walking distance of the resort.

1. Piestewa Peak (Formerly Squaw Peak):
   • Distance from the Biltmore: 5-minute drive
   • Piestewa Peak Summit Trail (#300) – 2.6 miles round trip, strenuous. We have hiked this trail several times, and it is steep! The views of Phoenix from the top are fantastic, bring your camera! The elevation gain is 1,208 feet in 1.2 miles.
   • Perl Charles Memorial Trail (#302) – 4.8 miles, moderate. The Elevation Gain is ~600 feet.
   • Freedom Trail (#302 Loop) – 3.7 miles, moderate. The Elevation Gain is ~1,150 feet.

   This is one of the most iconic hikes in Phoenix, offering breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, with challenging, rocky terrain with steep inclines makes for a rewarding workout. Parking fills up here quickly, come early or you will have to park elsewhere.

   Here is a Google Map link from the hotel to the Piestewa Peak parking lot.

2. Dreamy Draw Nature Loop Trail:
   • Distance from the Biltmore: 5-minute drive.
   • Trail Length: Various trails ranging from easy to moderate, with loops around 2-5 miles. The loop trail (#220) elevation gain is 400 feet.
   • Gentler terrain compared to Piestewa Peak, making it great for beginners or casual hikers.
   • Beautiful desert scenery with cacti, wildflowers, and mountain views.
   • Less crowded than summit trails, offering a peaceful outdoor experience.

   Gentler terrain compared to Piestewa Peak, making it great for beginners or casual hikers.

   Here is a Google Map link from the hotel to the Dreamy Draw Recreation Area.

3. Camelback Mountain:
   • Distance from the Biltmore: 10-minute drive.
   • Echo Canyon Trail – 2.5 miles round trip, very strenuous. The elevation gain is 1,264 feet.
   • Cholla Trail – 3 miles round trip, very strenuous. The elevation gain 1,200+ feet.

   This is considered to be one of the most famous and challenging hikes in Arizona, known for its steep inclines and rock scrambles. Reaching the summit of Camelback Mountain (elevation: 2,704 feet) offers stunning, panoramic views of the Phoenix Valley, with Scottsdale prominently visible to the east. This iconic Arizona hike rewards climbers with breathtaking scenery that stretches for miles in every direction.

   Here is a Google Map link from the hotel to the Echo Canyon Trailhead.

4. Phoenix Mountain Preserve (North of the Biltmore):
   • Distance from the Biltmore: 5-15 minutes by car.
   • Trail 100 – A long multi-use trail (11 miles) for hiking, biking, and running.
   • Trail 304 – A moderate loop around the mountain with scenic views.
   • Trail 1A – A shorter, easy trail perfect for a quick nature walk.

   There are a variety of trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging treks.

   Here is a Google Map link from the hotel to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve trail 100.

• Wikipedia Article for the Arizona Biltmore Hotel:
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