Although Phoenix still holds the title of Resort Capital of Arizona, Tucson is not far behind, and this city's resorts boast much more spectacular settings than most comparable properties in Phoenix and Scottsdale. As far as nonresort accommodations go, Tucson has a wider variety than Phoenix -- partly because several historic neighborhoods have become home to bed-and-breakfast inns. The presence of several guest ranches within a 20-minute drive of Tucson also adds to the city's diversity of accommodations. Business and budget travelers are well served with all-suite and conference hotels, as well as plenty of budget chain motels.
At the more expensive hotels and resorts, summer rates, usually in effect from May to September or October, are often less than half what they are in winter. Surprisingly, temperatures usually aren't unbearable in May or September, which makes these good times to visit if you're looking to save money. When making late spring or early fall reservations, always be sure to ask when rates are scheduled to go up or down. If you aren't coming to Tucson specifically for the winter gem and mineral shows, then you'll save quite a bit if you avoid the last week in January and the first 2 weeks in February, when hotels around town generally charge exorbitant rates.
Most hotels offer special packages, weekend rates, various discounts (such as for AARP or AAA members), and free accommodations for children, so it helps to ask when you reserve. Nearly all hotels have smoke-free and wheelchair-accessible rooms.
Bed & Breakfasts -- If you're looking to stay in a B&B, several agencies can help. The Arizona Association of Bed and Breakfast Inns (www.arizona-bed-breakfast.com) has several members in Tucson. Mi Casa Su Casa (tel. 800/456-0682 or 480/990-0682; www.azres.com) will book you into one of its many home-stays (informal B&Bs) in the Tucson area or elsewhere in the state, as will Arizona Trails Travel Services (tel. 888/799-4284 or 480/837-4284; www.arizonatrails.com), which also books tour and hotel reservations.
