I feel like Tucson is a very underrated destination. There are lots of great Tucson resorts for families, as well as plenty of incredible outdoor attractions and some of the best food in the country.
Trekaroo can’t get enough of Tucson, and we have visited this special Southwest destination several times. We are thrilled to bring you this guide to the best Tucson Resorts for Families in 2023 that have been tested by real families who have actually visited these resorts.
Discover the best things to do in Tucson with kids.
The Best Tucson Resorts for Families
JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort
If you are looking for a luxury property that is close to Saguaro National Park, JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort is a great option. Golf, tennis, hiking, and pool time are big draws at this gorgeous resort which backs up to desert park land.
If your kids are like mine, they are usually most concerned about the resort pool and kids at this property will not be disappointed.
There are multiple pools onsite, and the main pool has two levels! Kids love jumping between the two sections, riding a raft around the lazy river, and cruising down the waterslide.
As a matter of fact, this hotel made our list of 14 Awesome Resorts with Water Parks in Arizona!
There is also a splash pad for the little ones to enjoy. Families looking to spend a day at the pool can book cabanas to enjoy a touch of luxury and breaks from the desert sun. If you don’t book a cabana, head down to the pool early to secure some lounge chairs for the day.
In addition to the pool, children will enjoy the kids club which offers a wide variety of supervised activities as well the teen lounge filled with video games.
If you do drop the little ones off at the kids club, consider spending some time at the spa. In addition to a full service offering of treatments like massages, facials, and body treatments, this three-floor retreat has a full gym, mens and womens lounge, salon, yoga studio, and private pool.
Rooms at JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort and Spa vary from standard hotel rooms to spacious suites. Many of the rooms have great views of the pool area, three golf courses on property, or the surrounding desert.
Hungry? JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort has several restaurants onsite, serving up Mexican, Southwestern, barbeque, American, and Italian cuisine. I especially enjoyed the indoor-outdoor vibe at Salud where they serve up amazing cocktails as well as small plates and tasty options like fish tacos and nachos.
Signature Grill is another great dining option that serves up three meals daily. They do have a kids menu available. Try the huevoos rancheros for breakfast and the red-wine braised short rib at dinner.
Trekaroo Tip: Be on the lookout for javelinas which come out of the nearby washes and trot across the resort with their babies following closely behind. They are adorable but it is important to give them plenty of space so they don’t feel threatened.
Book your stay at JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort.
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Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort checks all the boxes for a great family resort in Tucson. Great pool area. Check! Full service spa. Check! Multitude of dining options. Check!
Lowes Ventana Canyon is located in the northeastern portion of Tucson, close to the stunning Sabino Canyon area. It is a sprawling, full-service property that is an ideal resort destination for families.
Pools are a big deal when you visit the desert. The main pool welcomes kids and is right in the middle of all the action. It’s shaped like a T with 3 sets of wide stairs and 3 1/2 feet entries. The graduated entry is especially appreciate by famliies with little swimmers.
There is also an adults-only pool which means you don’t have to worry about interrupting adult vacations with the joyful noise of kiddos- they have options.
Be sure to take advantage of the Pool Concierge. A staffed cabana will serve all your of our pool needs including water, sunscreen, and chilled towels. Bill’s Grill, the poolside restaurant and bar, is open from lunch to sunset.
Families will enjoy star-gazing, hiking, playing tennis, and dive-in movies as part of the Loews Loves Families program. They can even bring along their four-legged friends at this pet-friendly property. There is also a kids club onsite and babysitting services available.
If you are looking for more active pursuits, check out the 1.1-mile Parcourse fitness trail which runs in front of the hotel and Ventana Canyon golf courses, and gives you a nice opportunity to enjoy the desert scenery. Speaking of golf, there is an 18-hole Tom Fazio designed course waiting for you.
Another nice trail on property is the Window Walk Naure Trail. There are interpretive signs along the way explaining the geology of the Tucson Valley and some of the geographic landmarks.
The Window Walk is representative of hotelier, Jonathan Tisch’s, desire to “build a luxury resort in a pristine, desert landscape without disturbing the environment.” It’s pretty amazing to think that not a single one of the 3,500 saguaro cacti was destroyed and all of the riparian habitats were kept intact when the 100-acre property was built.
A variety of room options are available, from standard rooms with lovely patios to suites with giant bathtubs begging you to come soak. There are pool views, city views, garden views, and even waterfall views available.
Book your stay at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort.
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa
If your family has a love for the outdoors and the Sonoran Desert, look no further than the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa. The resort sits on 80 acres in Northwest Tucson at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, and focuses on green practices and celebrating the beauty of the desert.
The guest rooms are spacious, and many are suite sized. I love the vaulted ceilings with exposed beams and the adobe exteriors. Most rooms seem to have a view of either the pool, desert gardens, city, or mountains. It is so nice to be able to sit out on the balcony with cup of coffee and watch local wildlife, like a mother quail and her chicks, scurry by.
The hotel features eight tennis courts and three pools so be sure to bring along your tennis racquet and bathing suit! If you do happen to forget your racquet, fear not- ball machines, racquet rental, and tennis clinics are all available.
One of my absolute favorite parts of staying at the Westward Look are the two trails that run alongside the property. The Hummingbird Trail is more of a nature trail with signed stops at beautiful ramadas along the way. Be sure to stop in the chef’s garden and smell all the fragrant food growing that might end up on your dinner plate.
The Saguaro Trail meanders through desert terrain, giving you an excellent opportunity to spot some little critters that call the Sonoran Desert home. Binoculars are complimentary so don’t forget to grab some before you head out on your walk. Pets are welome at this resort and will certainly enjoy the trails as well.
My children’s favorite part of the resort is the horse stables. In addition to horses to pet and say “hi” to, there is also a small petting zoo with goats and an alpaca. Families with kids as young as seven can book horseback riding, which is especially lovely at sunset.
There is a a sports park on site with basketball, volleyball, and horseshoes available to guests. Equipment can be checked out at the fitness center. The fitness center has a wide range of equipment and classes. The 3,000-square-foot Sonoran Spa has a variety of scrubs, facials, and massages that celebrate the surrounding environments natual abundance.
There are a couple different dining options on site. The Lookout Bar and Grille is very family friendly with a view of the twinkling city lights of Tucson below. Be sure to save room for the shakes, floats, and sundaes which are very popular with my family.
Book your stay at the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa.
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Hilton’s El Conquistador Tucson is a great resort choice for large (and small) families who love plenty of pool time and lots of space to relax. In addition to traditional rooms, this property also has one to three-room casita suites with separate living areas, fireplaces, and private patios.
The mountainous desert provides a beautiful backdrop to the resort. Local wildlife abounds around the property including jackrabbits, roadrunners, lizards, and hummingbirds. There is even a hummingbird and butterfly garden with signage to help identify the animals attracted to the plants growing there.
This sprawling resort has five pools and the main pool has lots of room to play or lounge. The resort keeps the fun going all day long with poolside games, and on select evenings there are even “Dive in” movies.
Kids will be happy to discover that there is a 143-foot waterslide that is open to those 42″ and taller. Parents with younger kids will appreciate the adjacent kiddie pool which has a zero-depth entry, spraying water features, and is only 1 ½ feet deep, making it perfect for toddlers. There is also a hot and cold plunge pool which is fun to experience.
There are 30 miles of trails around this resort and two-hour bike rental is included with the resort fee. There are no kid bikes, but there are scooters. If your kids are too young for adult bikes, definitely bring them from home.
Other activities you won’t want to miss during your visit include hiking in the adjacent Catalina State Park, horseback riding from the stables on property, and the onsite kids club which is a great place for children to play while their parents enjoy golf, tennis, or time at the full service spa.
Wednesday through Sunday before dusk, a Native American flute player performs in the main courtyard. I highligh recommend you take time to listen to this talented artist before heading to dinner.
Speaking of meal time, there are a few restaurants onsite and many food options nearby. Families appreciate the Southwestern-style breakfast at Sundance Cafe, smoothies and sandwiches at the poolside Desert Springs Bar & Grill. Special dinners can be had at Espezote Kitchen which features American food with Southwestern flair.
Book you stay at El Conquistador Tucson, a Hilton Resort.
Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort
Located on 34 acres, Hacienda del Sol is a historic property with breathtaking views of the Catalina Mountains and an intimate atmosphere. If you love luxury but aren’t interested in staying in a huge resort, this may be the best option for you.
Though the property itself is expansive, the resort has a total of only 30 guestrooms, suites, and private casitas. The suites and casitas are especially nice with kitchenettes, living areas, fireplaces, jetted tubs, a private patio, and a dedicated carport.
The warm and inviting decor includes adobe-colored tiles, handcrafted mesquite wooden furniture, and desert-inspired artwork. There are art installations featuring sculptures, paintings, pottery, photography, and tile-work located throughout the resort.
Other amenities of the resort include a swimming pool and jacuzzi and on-site dining at Terraza Garden Patio and Lounge as well as The Grill at Hacienda del Sol. For an additional cost, guests can also elect to receive spa services or book a leisurely horseback ride through the desert via Spanish Trail Outfitters.
Book your stay at Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort.
Omni Tucson National Resort
Omni Tucson National Resort is another wonderful Tuscon resort for families that is home to great pools, golf, and views.
Kids are welcomed at this resort with the Omni Junior Chefs program. They will receive a welcome tote with yummy snacks upon check-in. They can also color a special “Say Goodnight to Hunger” postcard and turn it in to the front desk to donate a meal to Feeding America!
Several of the rooms overlook the resort golf club, and some have balconies overlooking the course. Others overlook the pool. Many also have soaking tubs, fire pits, and speacies walk-in closets.
There are two pools on the property. One is a lovely, zero-edge pool and the other pool is larger and has cabanas for rent. There are also four tennis courts on the property for those looking to be active before lounging poolside.
Bob’s Steak and Chop House is the signature dining venue on the property, but families with younger kids might feel more comfortable at Morning Table or Legends Bar & Grill where special Omni Junior Chefs menus are available for the kids.
The property does also have a full service spa with special treatments for kids as young as five. There are manis, pedis, hair styling services for younger children and mini facial and maassages available for teens.
Adults can enjoy all of the above plus hair cut and color, special body wraps, signature massages, and facials.
Book your stay at the Omni Tucson National Resort.
Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa
I have yet to meet a Westin I didn’t enjoy and the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa ranks among the best. This large resort really does cater to families and has plenty to offer on its expansive, 250-acre campus.
The biggest attraction for families visiting at any resort in Tucson is always the pool, and Westin has not one but five pools to enjoy. Older kids will certainly be most attracted to the 177-foot waterslide that is open to anyone over 42 inches tall to zip down.
There is a great pool restaurant/bar called Sabinos that serves up tasty slushy cocktails as well virgin slushy treats for the kiddos. If you are going to make a day of the pool, be sure to rent a cabana.
As with most resorts in Tucson, there is fantastic golf and tennis located onsite. Have the kids take a lesson or leave them in the kids club and enjoy some active outdoor time on your own. There is also a full service spa and fitness studio.
Most rooms are standard with either one king bed or two doubles, but they do have those have those Heavenly Westin beds which really do live up to the hype. If you are feeling fancy, book a suite with your own private hot tub on the patio. Rooms do have private patios or balconies.
Book your stay at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa.
Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain
If five-star, family-friendly luxury is what your family craves, The Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain brings both family friendliness and luxury in spades.
From the moment they check-in, families are in for a kid-friendly treat. There is a small desk off to the side for V.I.K. (Very Important Kids). They also offer an in-room camping experience for kids! Inside rooms families will find a kid-sized tent complete with down bedding, book, stuffed animal, and flashlight as part of the “In-Room Tent Experience”.
This resort has lodging options which range from well-appointed standard rooms with scenic balcony views to sprawling casitas with two full bedrooms and a spacious living area which accomodate up to eight people.
The surrounding mountain terrain is ideal for hiking and mountain biking. There are also three golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus.
After working up a sweat in the desert heart, families will be happy to discover that this resort has three swimming pools and a 235-foot waterslide and a splash pad. There are also cabanas to rent and quieter pools for adults to esacpe to is they need to break from the kid-friendly fun.
The Ritz Kids program is beloved by kids 5-12 who have the chance to participate in this special kid’s club. During Ranger Day Camp kids are taken on hikes, learn about the desert and its wildife, and make a bunch of crafts to bring home as souvenirs.
While the kids are having a blast in the kids club, you can relax at the full-service spa which focuses on holistic treatements.
Still want more fun? Then head to the concierge and rent mountain bikes, book a guided hike (or ask for a map to go it alone), or ask about geo-caching. You can also play badminton and ping-pong or check out board games from the lobby.
There are several restaurants on the property including CORE Kitchen and Wine Bar. Opt for the outdoor, less formal seating where kids will be more comfortable and you can still enjoy a sophisticated steak dinner while listening to live Native American flute musicians usher in the sunset.
Before heading back to your room for the evening, be sure to enjoy the nightly S’mores and even help the resort’s rangers hunt for scorpions!
Book your stay at the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain.
Tanque Verde Ranch
Just east of Tucson in the magnificent Sonoran Desert is Tanque Verde Ranch, a dude ranch destination cherished by families who return year after year. Families flock to Tanque Verde from all around the world for their beautiful surroundings, luxe accommodations, stellar horse riding programs, excellent food, and numerous activities.
You don’t have to be a horseback riding expert to enjoy your experience at this guest ranch- most people aren’t. They have rides for all skill levels and daily lessons to help you learn some new skills. Children as young as four can ride.
Horseback rides and lessons aren’t the only amazing activities on the ranch. Tanque Verde hosts a weekly calendar chock-full of family friendly entertainment, educational activities, lessons, and good old-fashioned fun.
In addition to learning about horse care, kids enjoy themed arts and crafts, nature presentations, afternoon swimming, movie nights, and more. Kids can dine with other children or with mom and dad, making it completely flexible to each family’s wishes.
Trekarro Tip: Don’t miss the Nature Center, nature tours, and nature classes offered at Tanque Verde. Learning everything from plant life to the reasons we didn’t need to fear rattlesnakes rounded out our family’s experience. You can also fish, hike, and mountain bike.
There are quite a few accommodation options on property, from standard single rooms to the hacienda suites. Two connected hacienda suites are large enough for multi-generational families to share, while still allowing privacy and numerous bathrooms for the ultimate comfort. Rooms are well appointed with Southwestern decor.
As much as you will love the rides and lessons, Many come away from their stay at Tanque Verde saying the best part is the meal time! Meals at Tanque Verde serve as a time to come together and share stories of the day.
Dishes served are an interesting combination of Southwestern inspiration, tried-and-true country classics, and innovative fine-dining creations. Truly something to write home about, the food is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Food allergies are handled with care and ease.
Finally, don’t leave without making time to visit La Sonora Spa. Pamper yourself after a riding day well done with the soothing touch of massage. You will have time to do this because your kids will be in the kids’ club. Genius.
Book your stay at Tanque Verde Ranch.
White Stallion Ranch
White Stallion Ranch is another amazing dude ranch option for families visiting Tucson. This family-owned guest ranch welcomes folks from all over the world to enjoy a resort-style stay with top-notch amenities, delicious meals, horseback riding, and family-friendly activities.
White Stallion Ranch is located in the Arizona desert just north of Tucson and Saguaro National Park. Beautiful views of the rugged peaks of the surrounding desert landscape set the scene for an idyllic Western adventure.
Accomodations are spaced out throughout the property. Every guest room has a private patio and many of the patios have fireplaces. Deluxe family suites can sleep up to eight people, making this ranch a great option for large families or multigeneerational getaways.
While you can book shorter stay, many families stay for at least four nights to a week to really experience all White Stallion Ranch has to offer. Activities abound at this dude ranch including horseback riding, hiking, a shooting range, archery, fat tire e-bikes, rock climbing, and enjoy the ranch’s weekly rodeo.
There is also a pool, movie theater, basketball, volleyball, badminton, tennis, and playground, and a petting zoo. Kids will definitely want to spend their evenings in the game room where they can play pool, shuffleboard table, air hockey, and foosball.
Of course, one of the main draws of staying at the dude ranch is horseback riding! Expert wranglers help each individual find the right horse for them and take riders out of rides that are suitable to their level of horsemanship. Beginners and very much welcomed and encouraged!
There are half day and full day rides, as well as slow and fast mountain rides. Lessons are available to those looking to improve their skills. During dinner each evening, guests are told about the actvity options horseback rides available for the next day.
Your stay also includes three meals daily and evening entertainment. For breakfast there is a short-order menu to choose from or a buffet of cereal, yogurts, and breads. At lunch and dinner options are varied and delicious with classics like spaghetti, turkey bacon sandwiches, pork tenderloin, salmon, enchiladas, salads, and steaks on the grill.
On top of all of this. a variety of special activities take place throughout the week including a rodeo, hayride to lunch, country line dancing, an astronomy program, and much more. It is no surprise that White Stallion Ranch is the #1 rated lodging option in Tucson on TripAdvisor.
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