Phoenix Hotels|Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Name: Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Telephone: 800-950-0086

An Arizona architectural gem

VERIFIED LUXURY

Learn How We Inspect

Opened in 1929, Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort exudes a singular, sublime combination of Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architecture, art deco design and desert botanical chic, with a splash of old Hollywood glamour.

Marilyn Monroe stayed here and took some famous photos by the pool, while the Biltmore lobby piano has seen late-night impromptu performances from Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra, Billy Joel, Liza Minnelli, Elton John and Bono. You never know who you might see at this historic hotel — it’s still a favorite of celebrities during the winter and spring.

The Phoenix resort resembles a secluded city unto itself, sprawled across 39 acres of gardens, golf courses and pools surrounded by modern estates and gated communities. Part of the Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts collection, the Biltmore recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation, which made improvements to Spa Biltmore, guest rooms and the main building.

Our Inspector's Highlights

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright student Albert Chase McArthur, the Arizona Biltmore exhibits numerous signature flourishes (Wright himself was the consulting architect). The concrete “Biltmore blocks” proliferating throughout the property are the most obvious Wright touches, created in 34 different geometric patterns inspired by the trunk of a palm tree. You also can see his artistic touch in the sprite sculptures scattered throughout the grounds and the brilliant, abstract stained-glass work in the lobby.
The Biltmore is the birthplace of the Tequila Sunrise cocktail. A longtime guest told the bartender loved tequila, but wanted something refreshing. The bartender then mixed soda, tequila, crème de cassis and lime juice, which became the Tequila Sunrise. Pop into The art deco Wright Bar to try the original.
The alfresco Spire Bar is the hub of the hotel. The glowing bar resembles a palm tree that provides shade to those who want to watch the game, huddle around the fire pits or enjoy a cocktail.
Families will want to cool off in the Paradise Pool, which offers a 65-foot triple waterslide, a children's splash pad and enclosed air-conditioned cabanas. Everyone else should make a beeline for the new Saguaro Pool, an adults-only playground where a DJ keeps the vibe upbeat on the weekends.
Tierra Luna Spa combines desert botanicals and the stars for one-of-a-kind treatments, like the Alchemy Mud & Crystal Wrap, which uses indigenous mud to detoxify and soften skin, improve circulation and alleviate aches. The customized service also employs essential oils and a crystal to boost your energy.

Things to Know

Summer’s a bust for celebrity sightings in the Valley of the Sun, but come spring — and its bevy of local events and festivals — the Biltmore sees some recognizable faces, which could range from actors like Lord of the Rings’ John Rhys-Davies to Lady Gaga on the links with shock rocker/golf fanatic Alice Cooper, who lives in nearby Paradise Valley and frequently plays the Biltmore courses.
Pool cabanas can be rented and are highly recommended. In addition to private seating, personal service and shade, they come with mini-fridges and flat-screen TVs equipped with premium channels.
Nearby activities and attractions abound, including the Heard Museum, which highlights Native American heritage and art; Wrigley Mansion, former home of chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.; Thursday night art walks through the galleries of Old Town Scottsdale; and of course, more golf courses than you can swing a club at.
The Arizona Biltmore has long been a favorite of power players, too — every president since Herbert Hoover has stayed here. Ronald and Nancy Reagan even honeymooned at the Phoenix resort. See photos of them at the property in the history hallway.
The property offers six Tesla chargers that can charge most electric vehicles.

The Rooms

With 701 guest rooms, the Phoenix hotel is one of the largest in Arizona. There are five types of accommodations, ranging from 400-square-foot classic rooms to private cottages with fire pits.
If you need a little more space to stretch out, opt for a suite. These luxurious spaces range from 600 to 1,157 square feet and have comfortable separate sitting areas and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
One- and two-bedroom villas are ideal for families, offering kitchen and dining areas, large tubs with separate showers and views of the golf courses or the Catalina Pool.
The Cottages are among the best places to stay on the property. The spacious standalone dwellings are meant for lingering with inviting living rooms with fireplaces, and patios with fire pits.

The Restaurants

McArthur’s Restaurant & Bar is the Arizona Biltmore’s lunchtime hot spot (you can also dine here for breakfast and dinner). While enjoying some fantastic soups, sandwiches or dishes like lobster mac and cheese and fish tacos, check out the bevy of bronze Soleri wind chimes. Mounted on the walls as decoration, these geometric bells lend turquoise splashes to the earthy brown and grassy green scheme of the bright and airy eatery.
Savor smoky comfort food at Renata's Hearth, where succulent meats and vegetables are cooked over a fire. And be sure to order a flight from the mezcal maven.

Amenities