We decided on a last-minute getaway and booked a weekend at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in Scottsdale–the stay was nothing short of extraordinary. The property was a perfect blend of luxury with decor reminding you that you’re in the Sonoran Desert. Located in the heart of Scottsdale, the Westin offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re there for a family getaway, a golf retreat, or, for Phoenicians, a relaxing staycation.
We booked the King Guest Room with a balcony view overlooking the ninth hole of the Kierland Golf Club. The room came with all the modern amenities you’d expect at a Westin property. The “Heavenly Bed,” standard at all Westin properties, lived up to its name, ensuring we had a restful night’s sleep, ready to take on the new day.
Travel Tip I booked our stay directly through Marriott’s website. The room came with a $100 per night resort credit. I applied for the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card from Chase. Upon approval, Marriott emailed a $250 gift card for use at the hotel. That’s $450 in total credits for the two nights!
The resort is a destination in itself. The Westin Kierland Golf Club features twenty-seven holes of wide-opened rolling fairways. At the same time, the hotel offers a full-service spa and a water park that includes a lazy river. This is where we spent the majority of our day, floating away on the inner tubes. The pool area offers Cabanas, islands, umbrellas, and chairs in prime spots for rent. Don’t worry; there’s plenty of seating along the pool for free on a first-come-first-serve basis. If you desire a more serene experience, the adults-only pool provides a quiet retreat where you can sip on a refreshing margarita while soaking up the Arizona sun.
When the sun sets over the Arizona desert, the evening entertainment comes alive in the mezzanine just off the lobby with the sounds of solo guitarist Jeff Ocheltree. This live music added a nice touch, creating a perfect setting to unwind. I sipped an Oaxaca Old Fashioned and gazed out the three-story glass windows into the Arizona night sky.
When it was time to eat, there were several dining options. From the Nuevo Latino cuisine at Deseo, featuring creative dishes by a James Beard Award-winning chef, to a more casual offering at Nellie Cashman’s. We opted for something in between: the Waltz & Weiser Whiskey Bar and Cantina. The restaurant provided quality pub fare and an extensive list of tequila and whiskey. I chose the prime burger and a mezcal, while my wife chose the cauliflower flatbread and a Disarono Spritz.
The Westin Kierland property is a short eight-minute walk to Kierland Commons, an upscale shopping center in the heart of Scottsdale with over 70 high-end stores and restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a shopping spree or a casual stroll, this area provides plenty to explore.
Our stay at the Westin Kierland Resort was everything we needed for a last-minute getaway. The combination of luxurious accommodations, five-star dining, and a wide range of activities makes the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa a standout in the Valley of the Sun. Whether you’re an avid golfer, a spa enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this place has something for everyone. We left feeling relaxed and already planning our next visit to another Marriott property. Check back for updates as we travel The Pebbled Road!
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