MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Tuscon

Where to Stay in Tuscon

Tuscon Arizona, USA Travel Guide

Discover Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels:

    Limited, budget-agreeable choices for social travelers. Explore options at Hostelworld.

  • Budget Motels:

    Affordable, basic lodging along major roads.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    Chain and independent properties with nice facilities. Find your stay on Booking.com.

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Unique, themed hotels, especially in historic areas.

Unique Local Accommodation & Outdoors

  • Luxury Hotels & Resorts:

    High-end resorts with spas, courses for golf, and fine dining. Explore options at IHG Hotels or Booking.com.

  • Dude Ranches:

    Immersive Old West stays with horseback riding.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Homes, rooms, or apartments, popular for families. Find rentals on Vrbo or Agoda.

  • Camping:

    Developed campsites in Catalina State Park; primitive options in Saguaro National Park.

Navigate Tucson's Neighborhoods

Each area of Tucson has its own character.

Central Districts

Good Points
  • Downtown/4th Ave/UA: Central, walkable, nightlife, culture, public transit.
  • South Tucson/Barrio Viejo: Authentic culture, historic charm, affordable dining.
Considerations
  • Downtown/4th Ave/UA: Can be noisy, parking challenges.
  • South Tucson/Barrio Viejo: Some regions have higher crime rates.

Foothills & Upscale

Good Points
  • Foothills: Luxury accommodations, scenic views, quiet, extensive resort facilities.
Considerations
  • Foothills: Less walkable, a car is needed, higher prices, further from downtown.

Suburban Areas

Good Points
  • East/Northwest: Family-focused, newer amenities, quiet.
  • Sam Hughes/Central Tucson: Historic, quiet, local businesses.
Considerations
  • East/Northwest: A car is needed, further from city center.
  • Sam Hughes/Central Tucson: Less public transit.

Safety and Access

Safety:

Most tourist areas are generally safe. Exercise caution at night. Secure valuables.

Transportation:

Downtown, 4th Avenue, and UA Area have the best access to Sun Link and Sun Tran. A car is needed for the Foothills and East/Northwest areas.

Plan Your Stay: Booking Strategies

Smart booking methods lead to the best accommodations.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (October-April): Book 3-6 months ahead, especially for resorts and during major events.
  • Shoulder Season (May, September): Book 1-3 months ahead for availability.
  • Low Season (June-August): More flexibility. Booking in advance still secures best rates.
  • Major events, like the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, cause price spikes.

Trusted Booking Platforms & Policies

  • Use major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia.
  • Direct hotel websites often have best rate guarantees. Explore IHG Hotels for their offerings.
  • Self-catering accommodations are available on Airbnb and Vrbo.
  • Cancellation policies vary; always check specific terms before booking.

Information

Negotiation:
  • Negotiating for walk-in-in rates is not common for established hotels.
  • Some independent motels might offer small cash discounts during the off-season.
Price Fluctuations:
  • Prices are highest during winter and spring (October-April).
  • Prices are lower during the summer (June-August).

Homestay Opportunities

Local Feel:

Vacation rentals often give a similar experience for independent travelers seeking a local feel.

House Sitting:

Consider platforms like TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Community Programs:

Less formal homestay programs exist in Tucson.

Accommodation Picks

Top lodging options across categories.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget Options

Look for clean, no-frills accommodations at Motel 6 or Super 8 along major arteries.

  • Motel 6
  • Super 8
Mid-Range Value

These offer good amenities and value.

  • Hampton Inn & Suites
  • Holiday Inn Express
  • Hotel Congress (historic)

Luxury & Specialty Stays

Luxury Indulgence

Extensive services and beautiful settings.

  • Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
  • Omni Tucson National Resort
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Solo & Long-Stay Options

For longer trips, extended-stay hotels are best.

  • Downtown, 4th Avenue for solo travelers
  • Residence Inn for extended stays
  • Homewood Suites (kitchenettes)

Family-Friendly Stays

  • Resort Amenities:

    Many mid-range and luxury resorts offer large pools and generously-sized rooms.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Houses or apartments with multiple bedrooms and kitchen facilities are ideal for families. Search on Vrbo.

  • Kids' Clubs:

    Some luxury resorts provide kids' clubs.

  • Campgrounds:

    Catalina State Park has developed campsites for family outings.

Cultural & Historical Significance

  • Hotel Congress:

    A historic downtown hotel (1919) known for its unique character and classic architecture.

  • Historic Guest Ranches:

    Tanque Verde Ranch and Pale Stallion Ranch provide an authentic Old West experience.

  • Presidio San Agustín:

    Stay near sites reflecting early colonial life.

  • Barrio Viejo:

    Stay near or in this historic neighborhood of colorful adobe houses.

Special Mention: House Sitting

TrustedHousesitters

A platform that connects travelers with homeowners needing pet or house care. It's an unique way to experience Tucson.

  • Stay in local dwellings
  • Care for pets
  • Immersive local experience
Benefits

This option could cut down accommodation costs and deepen your connection with the local people and local lifestyle.

  • Cost savings
  • Pet companionship
  • Local insights

Overview of Accommodation Types

Variety of Choices

Tucson offers lodging from affordable motels to luxury resorts and unique dude ranches.

Neighborhood Focus

Each neighborhood provides a distinct vibe and access to attractions.

Booking Ahead

Book well in advance for high season and during major occasions to secure your preferred options.