Review Author

Britney Eschelman

Contributing Writer & Editor

Traveling to the desert and seeking a chic lodge after days filled with leisurely activities, including—but not limited to—poolside lounging, golfing, and imbibing at vibrant nightlife spots? Then look no further than The Scott Resort & Spa, a member of Marc & Rose Hospitality’s understated boutique hotel collection.

Driving up to the property in the heart of Old Town, a vintage 1965 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible painted in teal blue catches the eye—echoing the timeless aura that awaits within its walls. The statement-piece front desk lies in the entryway corner: navy blue-hued recessed shelves adorned with mini portrait paintings, and charming home decor showcase the stay’s design-forward atmosphere.

After check-in, guests meander through the open-air lobby, which boasts soaring ceilings and lush greenery. Warm wooden furnishings facilitate ample lounge seating, providing a relaxing yet upscale escape from Arizona’s notorious scorching heat. Chess and backgammon board game sets aesthetically dress the cocktail tables, adding an inviting touch to the already welcoming space. 

Sitting towards the end of the foyer is the hotel’s Caribbean-influenced Canal Club Bar, which takes center stage with its adorable hot-pink illuminated signage. As guests make their way to their rooms, they can make a mental note to return to the cocktail bar for an afternoon beverage rendezvous. (Try the herbaceous Sin & Santeria or the rum-forward Cubano Viejo.) Additionally, they can reserve time to dine at the Caribbean Redux restaurant, paired with the bar, where the Old Havana vibe comes into full effect.

The indoor-outdoor grounds allow guests to saunter by The Scott’s two glittering swimming pools, ensconced amidst verdant gardens, as they wander to their refurbished chambers. Private cabanas outfitted with posh day beds tease at the thought of soaking up Vitamin D and swimming in the pool as the primary activity during one’s entire trip. A cozy patio intrigues visitors to extend their sunlit days into the evening, offering warm fire pits and classic black-and-white films projected onto the wall.

Its 204 accommodations span from pool-facing and courtyard-facing corridors to deluxe suites. Sonoran-style interiors decorate these fashionable quarters: woven light fixtures, brushed brass trappings, and desert-themed bespoke artwork set the scene. Once nestled in their room, one might naturally be drawn to the robes, their passport to indulgence in this desert sanctuary. While enveloped in chic bathrobe fabrics, they can sip espresso and admire views of natural foliage and turquoise lidos from private balconies—an ideal start to their sun-filled getaway. 

Fast Facts

Location: Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona

Address: 4925 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Rating: Four-Star

The vibe: A chic Sonoran Desert-style boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, infused with a sophisticated Cuban flair.

Food + Drink: Guests can indulge in American cuisine interjected with Caribbean-influenced flavors at the Canal Club and Caribbean Redux. Food-wise, the standout main courses include the Gaucho Steak—comprising a spiced skirt steak, poblano chimichurri, and masa potato cakes—and the Oaxacan-stye Green Chile Chicken Pizza—made with a crispy-edged flour tortilla, braised chicken, smoked bacon black bean purée, pico, Oaxaca cheese, and micro cilantro as a garnish. The authentic Cubano made with braised pork, ham, baby Swiss cheese, and red onions perfectly reflects the restaurant’s established Cuban style.

Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: There are countless things to adore at The Scott, but our top pick is the open-air lobby, which features lush foliage, plentiful seating areas, and charming chess sets on its coffee tables.

Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool; Fitness center; Room service; Bikes for rent; Free WiFi; Restaurant; Bar; Meeting rooms

What’s nearby? Fashion Square Mall; The Waterfront; Old Town Scottsdale; Desert Botanical Gardens; Camelback Mountain; The Scottsdale ArtWalk

Any personal neighborhood recs? Given the proximity to Old Town’s splendors, there’s a medley of eateries and nightlife clubs to choose from. We recommend dinner and drinks at Cala or Maple & Ash for dinner one night. Those who want more tips should check out our official guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale, where we share details about where to stay, eat, drink, and visit in the desert.

Rooms: 204

Pricing: Rates start at $179 per night.

Closest Airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport