Updated: November 8, 2023
We all need a little getaway sometimes. Whether it’s to celebrate a special occasion or anniversary, enjoy time with loved ones, or a romantic weekend away, a change of scenery can be a great option.
Luckily, some of the best resorts in Tucson offer activities or amenities that fit any occasion or interest. Hiking, golfing, relaxing by the pool—whatever your speed, there’s an option for you.
Here are 18 of the best resorts for your next getaway—all within two hours of downtown Tucson.
Tucson Staycation Ideas: 18 Amazing Options
The best weekend trips in Tucson are waiting for you. Check out this list of Tucson staycation spots within two hours and get planning!
Best Resorts in Tucson for Relaxing
If you just need to relax and get away from it all, these are your best options. These Tucson resorts offer a luxury experience with high-quality amenities and services so you can simply sit back and enjoy.
1. JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa
Address: 3800 W Starr Pass Boulevard (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 20 minutes
Why go here? This luxurious resort is the perfect place for some quiet R&R at the full-service spa, a day out on the golf course, and daily awe-inspiring views of the Sonoran Desert. You can also experience local culture on your Tucson staycation here — each day starts with a Mitakuye Oyasin ritual at sunrise, where there is a traditional burning of sage and a Native American flute serenade.
2. Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort
Address: 5501 N Hacienda Del Sol Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 15 minutes
Why go here? A touch of luxury in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Hacienda Del Sol is the perfect place to relax with great food, live music, a relaxing spa and pool, and lush botanical gardens.
3. Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
Address: 245 E Ina Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 20 minutes
Why go here? With stunning views of the Sonoran Desert from every room, this resort offers a full-service spa, two swimming pools, and tennis courts. This is a luxurious spot to get some R&R for your Tucson staycation.
4. The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Address: 15000 N Secret Springs Drive, Marana (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 35 minutes
Why go here? This luxurious resort is located in the Tortolita Mountains and features a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, three swimming pools, and a full-service spa. Hikers will also love this spot for their Tucson staycation, as it offers 26 miles of hiking trails right around the resort.
5. Tubac Golf Resort & Spa
Address: 65 Avenida de Otero, Tubac (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 50 minutes
Why go here? Situated on 500 acres of beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape, this historic resort is the perfect place to relax and recharge. It features a championship golf course, a full-service spa, and an outdoor pool.
6. The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Address: 6200 N Club House Lane (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 30 minutes
Why go here? Set in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this 600-acre resort includes two golf courses, a full-service spa, and stunning views of the surrounding desert. Food enthusiasts will also enjoy the dining options at this Tucson staycation spot — world-class dining with amazing views from every spot.
7. El Conquistador Tucson
Address: 10000 N Oracle Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 15 minutes
Why go here? You don’t need to even drive out of the city for a Tucson staycation! El Conquistador Tucson is a stunning Hilton Resort with spa and golf options along with amazing on-site restaurants.
8. The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa
Address: 3800 E Sunrise Drive (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 20 minutes
Why go here? Voted Top Resort by Condé Nast readers, La Paloma is an excellent choice for your Tucson staycation. The resort balances activity with leisure, so you can choose between one of five pools with cabanas and lounges or reserve your tee time on the golf course. Refresh after a day in the sun at the AZuL Restaurant, serving Latin-inspired dishes.
Best Resorts in Tucson for Adventures and Activities
If you enjoy being active during your getaway experience, these Tucson resorts are your best bet. They offer outdoor adventures, guided activities, or planned events to get involved in. They’re also great options for families with kids who want to stay busy throughout the day.
1. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
Address: 5000 East, E Via Estancia Miraval (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 40 minutes
Why go here? Enjoy the views of the stunning Santa Catalina Mountains from the resort, or get out and explore them with included activities like hiking or horseback riding. You can also enjoy a relaxing spa experience or a guided meditation during your Tucson staycation. As an all-inclusive destination, this is one of the best resorts in Tucson to relax and not worry about a thing. There’s no need to bring your card around for purchases and they are also a gratuity-free environment.
2. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
Address: 7000 N Resort Drive (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 30 minutes
Why go here? Golfers have their pick of two PGA courses at this upscale. If golf isn’t your thing, try a game of tennis or pickleball, swim in one of two pools, or head to the spa. You can also dine in style on this Tucson staycation at the Flying V Bar & Grill, featuring Chef Ken Harvey, the Food Network’s Chopped Winner in 2019.
3. Tanque Verde Ranch
Address: 14301 E Speedway Boulevard (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 45 minutes
Why go here? This historic guest ranch was rated #1 in Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in 2021. And it’s easy to understand why — it’s situated on 60,000 acres of beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape, and offers amazing activities such as horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. This is a no-brainer pick for outdoor enthusiasts looking for their weekend trips from Tucson.
4. White Stallion Ranch
Address: 9251 W Twin Peaks Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 25 minutes
Why go here? Experience the Sonoran Desert in all its beauty at this family-owned and award-winning dude ranch. Activity options at the Tucson staycation spot include a variety of ranch activities such as horseback riding, shooting, archery, or e-biking.
5. Canyon Ranch
Address: 8600 E Rockcliff Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 25 minutes
Why go here? This wellness resort in Tucson is designed for visitors seeking growth and transformation. With specialized programs that focus on health, wellness, movement, and nutrition, Canyon Ranch draws on traditional, modern, and alternative philosophies to support your pursuit of well-being.
Best Resorts in Tucson for Budget-Minded Vacations
You don’t have to sacrifice a good time for your budget. These Tucson resorts are cheaper alternatives to the others on the list while still offering an amazing getaway experience!
1. El Dorado Suites Hotel
Address: 55 Ok Street, Bisbee (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Why go here? This Tucson staycation option is more budget-friendly than some of the others on the list. It’s the perfect jumping-off point to explore Bisbee, a quirky, artistic town full of amazing architecture and a thriving hospitality scene. Every suite at El Dorado has a large veranda, so it’s also a beautiful spot to relax and watch the sun go down.
2. Lazydays KOA Resort
Address: 5151 S Country Club Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 15 minutes
Why go here? Ideal for the budget-minded, Lazydays KOA is a quick 15-minute drive away — perfect for your weekend trips from Tucson when you just want a change of scenery. Choose from RV and tent sights, or choose on-site cabin lodging options if you prefer. The campground offers family-friendly fun such as 9-hole chip and putt, pools, nature walks, a workout room, and fun scheduled activities.
3. Mt. Lemmon Hotel
Address: 12925 N Sabino Canyon Parkway (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Why go here? This is an excellent choice for families, as Mt. Lemmon Hotel cabins are kid and pet friendly! You’ll love being immersed in the beauty of Mt. Lemmon and Santa Catalina Mountains and exploring the best the region has to offer.
4. Lodge on the Desert
Address: 306 N Alvernon Way (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 15 minutes
Why go here? This is one of the best resorts in Tucson because it offers an authentic Old Pueblo experience. The boutique 102-room hotel is situated on five acres in the middle of Tucson, operating as an oasis in the city. The hacienda-style accommodations, lush grounds, and historic charm are an ideal getaway spot for those who don’t want a more affordable option without going too far from the city.
5. Catalina State Park
Address: 11570 N Oracle Road (map)
Driving distance from Tucson: 15 minutes
Why go here? While not quite a Tucson “resort,” Catalina State Park offers an amazing getaway experience for those who enjoy being outside in nature. There are camping options for both tents and RVs and campgrounds are equipped with flush restrooms, hot showers, and RV hookups. The park is set at the base of the beautiful Santa Catalina Mountains, with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
So, where are you going to go this year? Any of these staycation Tucson trips can be the highlight of your summer. And if you have any other ideas for weekend trips from Tucson, let us know and we’ll add it to the list.
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