Hotels in Fort McDowell

Fort McDowell: Where Desert Dreams Meet Cultural Riches

Nestled in the heart of Arizona, Fort McDowell offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking desert landscapes. As part of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, visitors can immerse themselves in Indigenous culture while enjoying stunning views of the McDowell Mountains and the serene Saguaro Lake. Thrill-seekers can try their luck at the Fort McDowell Casino, while nature lovers can explore the surrounding trails and desert vistas. Just a stone’s throw from Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, this off-the-beaten-path gem promises an authentic Southwestern experience filled with adventure and tranquility. For the best hotel rates in Fort McDowell and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Fort McDowell

Some of the best places to stay in Fort McDowell are Downtown Phoenix, Old Town and Camelback East. Fort McDowell, Arizona, offers a fantastic base for exploring nearby attractions. Downtown Phoenix boasts vibrant nightlife and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Old Town is known for its charming shops and art galleries, perfect for leisurely strolls. Camelback East features beautiful neighborhoods and outdoor activities. Accommodations in these areas range from luxurious resorts to cozy hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Enjoy the unique experiences each location provides! Here are some of the best hotels in Fort McDowell that our travelers love:

1. Downtown PhoenixOpens in a new window: Downtown Phoenix is a vibrant area that offers a mix of business and recreational activities, making it a great base for travelers. With attractions like the Phoenix Convention Center and Chase Field, it's perfect for those interested in sports and events. For accommodations, consider Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix Cityscape, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel catering to families and business travelers, offering amenities like a Business Center and free cribs for kids. Another option is Renaissance Phoenix DowntownOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel located in the city center, ideal for those looking for a blend of business and city experiences. Lastly, The Westin Phoenix DowntownOpens in a new window provides a family-friendly environment with a range of business facilities and is conveniently situated in the heart of downtown.
2. Old TownOpens in a new window: Old Town is a lively area known for its rich cultural scene, shopping, and entertainment options. It’s home to attractions like Scottsdale Fashion Square and Talking Stick Resort Casino. For a luxurious stay, check out Hotel Valley HoOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star boutique hotel that features unique decor and essential business amenities. Alternatively, The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, Luxury CollectionOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star resort offering adventure activities and family-friendly services, making it great for those seeking fun and relaxation. Another excellent choice is The MonarchOpens in a new window, a stylish 4.0-star boutique hotel that welcomes pets and features Art Deco designs, perfect for a unique experience.
3. Camelback EastOpens in a new window: Camelback East is a family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to sports venues like Chase Field and educational institutions like Arizona State University. For a top-tier experience, consider Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & ResortsOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort that offers numerous adventure sports and business amenities. Another option is Royal Palms Resort and Spa, part of HyattOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel located in a historic building, providing a unique stay with family-friendly activities nearby. Additionally, The Camby, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that combines luxury with pet-friendly policies, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers.

Things to do in Fort McDowell for first time

A three-day getaway to Fort McDowell immerses travelers in the stunning desert landscape, featuring mountains and serene lakes. Enjoy thrilling entertainment options, from exhilarating casino gaming to vibrant nightlife, alongside outdoor activities like hiking and golfing, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Fort McDowell:

• Day 1: Your adventure begins at the Fountain Hills Fountain, where you can marvel at one of the tallest fountains in the world, shooting water high into the air. After soaking in the views, head over to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a sprawling desert landscape perfect for hiking and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. Conclude your day at Butterfly Wonderland, an enchanting indoor rainforest home to thousands of butterflies—it's a serene experience that is perfect for all ages.
• Day 2: Start your morning at Saguaro Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride or rent a kayak to explore the stunning desert scenery. Afterward, make your way to Usery Mountain Regional Park for some hiking; the trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to see local wildlife. Wrap up the day at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, where aviation enthusiasts can discover historical aircraft and learn about the heroes of the sky.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Fountain Hills Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis that showcases native plants and beautiful landscapes. Following your stroll through the gardens, visit the Musical Instrument Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the sounds and cultures of musical instruments from around the world. End your day with a hike up Camelback Mountain, an iconic Phoenix landmark that offers stunning panoramic views of the valley—it's a rewarding challenge for any hiker.

5 tips to find a great Fort McDowell hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Fort McDowell is from June to August, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure better prices. For a great value for money, consider staying at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including the stunning desert landscapes. This way, you can make the most of your visit while keeping your expenses in check.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Fort McDowell, Hotels.com is a great option. You may discover affordable accommodations near Phoenix by navigating to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, which could help you find great rates on nearby hotels. Plus, with their price guarantee, you’ll have added peace of mind while planning your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, having some flexibility with your travel dates could increase the chances of saving on hotel expenses in Fort McDowell.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Fort McDowell is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars or buses to explore the area, which may help you save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Fort McDowell and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Fort McDowell

Fort McDowell experiences its lowest average temperatures in January and December, at 51.8°F (11.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 92.3°F (33.5°C). January is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Fort McDowell, January, March, and April are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, August, October, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry rainfall and sunny conditions.

Fort McDowell Travel Information