Destination Dreamscapes
Arizona’s Extraordinary Lodging Experiences
Writer Shannon Severson
Down a winding, wooded road or motoring along a desert expanse, when it’s time to lay your head for the evening, why not make your accommodations as interesting as the scenery on your drive?
Beyond Arizona’s spectacular landscapes lies another adventure: extraordinary accommodations that transform an ordinary getaway into an unforgettable experience. From vintage trailer courts to luxury glamping, these unique stays across the state offer both out-of-state visitors and locals a chance to experience Arizona in a distinctive style.
Shash Diné EcoRetreat
Ancient history, ancient stories and ancient traditions converge at this Native American-owned working sheep ranch and off-grid glamping retreat. For 15 generations, Paul and Baya Meehan’s family has tended this land according to Navajo traditions, where Baya’s ancestors once hid in canyons to escape U.S. Army removal efforts. Located 12 miles south of Page with access to Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Zion, the retreat offers a peaceful Navajo cultural experience and reconnection with nature. Accommodations range from traditional hogans (including one built by Baya’s grandfather) to luxurious bell tents on raised platforms, covered sheep wagons, and the Kyoob—a modern cube cabin with Mid-Century Modern-meets-Navajo textile decor. The Meehans call it a “billion star” hotel experience for the brilliant night skies.
Cane Beds Corral
In Arizona’s far northern canyonlands, former Las Vegas Strip architect Randy Paul and his wife, Tammy, have created Cane Beds Corral — an intimate, affordable glamping destination on seven pristine acres near the Utah border. Their passion project began in 2020 with two hand-built accommodations: the Little Rock Cabin (sleeps four) and the Explorer’s Escape tent with a private outdoor shower. Recently added options include the solar-powered Honeymoon Hideout and colorful “Mexi-Boho” Pancho’s Villa, both with access to custom bathrooms featuring showers reminiscent of slot canyons. Committed to sustainability and affordability, the Pauls limit capacity to 10 guests, providing Wi-Fi, outdoor cooking facilities, and a gas firepit for s’mores under starry skies. The property offers easy access to Zion, Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon national parks, with local recommendations readily available.
Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon
Step into your personal “sky dome” and be transported to another world. Panoramic windows and skylights offer sweeping views that make you feel like you can reach out and touch the stars, all from climate-controlled comfort with premium linens. Theme rooms let you live your own story: “Secret Agent” a la 007, “80s Video Game,” “Pink Unicorn,” and “Space Galaxy” are family-sized domes that bring creativity to life. The “Welcome Dome” serves as the central hub for dining, coffee, games and socializing. Activities range from morning yoga and giant bounce pillows to stargazing tours with the resort’s resident astronomer. Located just 29 miles from Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, it serves as an ideal base camp for scenic drives and hiking.
Under Canvas Grand Canyon
For the ultimate luxury glamping experience, Under Canvas Grand Canyon delivers spectacularly. This top-rated resort, located just 25 minutes from the South Rim on 160 acres of pinyon and juniper forest, features beautifully furnished safari-style tents — including the popular stargazer option with built-in ceiling windows for nighttime sky viewing. The property balances luxury with environmental consciousness through its minimal footprint philosophy, purposely excluding Wi-Fi to enhance natural connections. Complimentary activities range from yoga and guided hikes to live music and s’mores, while adventures that require advance booking include Jeep safaris and specialized tours. The culinary program emphasizes local, seasonal ingredients with options for both adults and children through the end of October.
Americana Motor Hotel
Get your kicks on Route 66 with a stay at this award-winning motor lodge that delivers a trippy 1970s “retro-futuristic” experience. The orange, yellow and green-hued lobby welcomes guests with board games and couches, while the property, originally built in 1962 and restored in 2023, puts you within easy driving distance of the Grand Canyon, Lowell Observatory and Arizona Meteor Crater. Wood-paneled guest rooms feature disco balls and neon signs alongside bold colors, geometric furniture and headboards that mimic ‘70s ski gear. The hotel’s “Backyard” offers yard games, fire pits, telescopes for stargazing, bikes to borrow, and a fenced dog area with bathing station. Special packages include Highway to Hops (room mini fridge stocked with Mother Road brews) and seasonal events like Sunday Funday DJ pool parties.
The Strawberry Inn
Just 100 miles from Phoenix but worlds away in ambiance, the Strawberry Inn offers a pine-nestled retreat with midcentury charm and farmhouse-style design. Owners Amber and Carson Eilers have crafted a casual yet luxurious getaway with accommodations ranging from rooms in the main building to spacious cabins that sleep up to six. The property features modern amenities with plush bedding, dog-friendly options, and an on-site Windmill Coffee shop brewing Valley favorite Press Coffee. Porch swings and yard games complement the relaxed atmosphere. Nearby springs, trails and local shops provide entertainment options. With significantly cooler summer temperatures than Phoenix, it’s an ideal warm-weather escape.
TinyCamp
Ever wondered about tiny house living? TinyCamp in Sedona offers the perfect opportunity to experience it firsthand in a breathtaking setting. This pet-friendly cluster of five custom tiny homes accommodates one to four guests at a cool 4,500-foot elevation. The elevated tiny homes feature large decks that create a treehouse-like experience, and founder Darin Dinsmore has expanded with locations in West Sedona and the Verde Valley wine region. Nearby hiking trails, vortex experiences and evening stargazing from private saltwater hot tubs complete this luxury sustainable retreat that’s particularly inviting during the summer months.
Air Village
Meander down a tree-lined path where the gleaming shimmer of silver Avion trailers catches the sunlight and imagination. This quaint cluster of 10 sleek, lovingly restored 34-foot trailer shells sits beneath leafy elm trees just one block from Prescott’s vibrant Whiskey Row. Air Village defines itself as a luxury experience based on “an abundance of healthful and comfortable experiences.” Each remodeled trailer accommodates up to three adults or two adults and two children, featuring private baths, kitchenettes and queen beds with climate control. Evenings can be spent by the electric fireplace inside or enjoying mountain air from private outdoor seating areas. The parklike setting includes communal fire pits surrounded by colorful Adirondack chairs, all convenient to downtown events and nearby nature trails.
Scorpion Bay Floating Cabins
Imagine waking to waves gently lapping against your private dock as light streams through the sliding glass doors of your floating cabin. Pour coffee in the kitchen and step onto your lakefront patio to enjoy the sparkling blue waters of Lake Pleasant — Scorpion Bay makes this dream a reality. Five fully equipped cabins sleep four to eight guests and require a minimum 6-night stay. Each features a private wet slip for boats or water toys, though the marina offers rentals including jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, and even “Yachtuzzis” — boats with onboard jacuzzis. The active can experience Paqua Park, a 7,000-square-foot floating water park with obstacles, bouncy pillows, slides and mini mountains. The Scorpion Bay Grill is one of the few floating restaurants in the United States.
scorpionbayaz.com/floating-cabins
Tirrito Farm
This ecotourism destination is a farmstead with heart — founded by Tucson cardiologist Dr. Salvatore Tirrito and his wife, Yuri, as a sustainable escape centered on responsible land stewardship through agriculture. Much of what’s used and consumed on this family-friendly working farm is made right here. The main building is a wonder itself — an earthen structure beneath 12 million pounds of soil that maintains comfortable temperatures. The farm houses a 16-acre vineyard, restaurant, the Taproom (Willcox’s only microbrewery), creamery, and accommodations where every element works in concert. Six themed glamping domes accommodate two to four people with kitchenettes, full bathrooms and heated floors. Unique styles include Barbie Dream, Wine Lover’s, Cowboy/Cowgirl, and Hive (designed by Yuri, the farm’s beekeeper). Three luxury casitas feature modern-rustic decor.
The Shady Dell Vintage Trailer Court
This historic haven near Bisbee has welcomed travelers since 1927. Today, carefully restored 1940s and 1950s vintage trailers, a 1947 “Tiki Bus” and even a 1947 38-foot Chris-Craft yacht transport guests to a bygone era. Each accommodation features period-appropriate decor, from streaming oldies radios to phonographs with 45s. Most units sleep two adults (minimum age 15) with private toilets and sinks, while communal bathrooms offer full amenities. On weekends, Dot’s Diner serves meals from its own restored trailer. Located near Bisbee’s historic attractions, with the renowned Sonoita Vineyards wine region about an hour’s drive away, these popular accommodations often book six months in advance.
More Great Getaways
For those seeking elevated experiences that blend comfort with character, these Arizona destinations offer distinctive stays that prioritize atmosphere and location:
- El Rancho Robles — This 1920s Spanish-style guest ranch spreads across 21 oak-shaded acres in the Santa Catalina Mountains, offering 27 uniquely positioned rooms and casitas at a cool 4,500-foot elevation. elranchorobles.com
- Rhumb Line Vineyard & Lavender Farm — Experience vineyard life in 1940s-inspired Quonset huts surrounded by organic lavender fields and mountain views in Cochise County wine country. rhumblinevineyards.com
- Tubac Inn — This charming boutique inn in Arizona’s premier art community features five cozy rooms showcasing Southwestern art and textiles, nestled in mesquite-shaded gardens. tubaccountryinn.com
