Most people I talk to know about the Grand Canyon. But what you may not know is that Arizona getaways offer red rock views, cozy casitas, and star-filled skies. It’s a desert dream for couples looking to unwind and reconnect.
In fact, I’ve found that few places feel as magical as Arizona when you’re looking to escape and reconnect. If you’re dreaming about wide-open skies, stunning desert backdrops, and romantic little towns, these getaways in Arizona are the perfect places to check out.
If you're in a hurry...
- Loews Ventana Canyon – 1 hour 45 minutes from Phoenix, Arizona
- Briar Patch Inn – 2 hours from Phoenix, Arizona
- Under Canvas Grand Canyon
- The Royal Palms for Couples
- Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon
- Sky Ranch Lodge Resort and Botanical Gardens, Sedona
- Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain – 20 minutes from Phoenix
- Miraval Resort & Spa
- The Scott Resort & Spa in Scottsdale
My Highlights...
- For red rock views and amazing spa treatments, I look to Sedona
- You can catch some of the clearest stars I’ve ever seen in Tucson
- If you’re into history and charm, Jerome’s cozy inns are a must
- I’ve splurged on a few luxury desert stays in Scottsdale
- For calm mornings by the water, Lake Havasu is where I’d go again
Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Arizona:
Loews Ventana Canyon - 1 hour 45 minutes from Phoenix, Arizona
I really enjoyed staying at this very unique hotel surrounded by the desert in Tucson. I spent some time at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort spa and enjoyed relaxing next to the pools.
I like how many restaurants I got to choose from. One night I was exhausted from all the fun in the Sonoran Desert and ordered room service. It was fast and courteous as it should be.
My highlight? The elegant dinner at The Flying V Bar & Grill, nestled right against the Catalina foothills. I ordered the tableside guacamole and mesquite-grilled filet mignon with chimichurri. The ambiance was upscale yet cozy, with firepits flickering on the terrace and desert views stretching into twilight.
I enjoyed having my own balcony... Next time I plan to bring my husband so that he can let me know what he thinks of the golf here. The courses looked well kept!
Address:
7000 N. Resort Drive, Tucson, AZ 85750Phone: 520-299-2020
Miraval Resort & Spa
I like to land in Phoenix when flying in from Austin. Miraval Resort & Spa in Estancia, AZ is just a 45 minute drive north of the airport.
I was planning a quick reunion with two friends and since we are always arguing about who should pay, this all-inclusive stay was the perfect solution.
My highlight? The mindful, nourishing lunch at Cactus Flower Restaurant. I had the grilled salmon bowl with quinoa, avocado, and roasted veggies—light, clean, and bursting with flavor. Every bite felt intentional, and the peaceful desert garden setting made it feel like part of the spa experience itself.
The soaking tubs were so relaxing after the daily wellness classes! More info
Address:
Miraval Resort & Spa, 5000 E. Via, Estancia, AZ 85739Phone: 855-234-1672
Briar Patch Inn - 2 hours from Phoenix, Arizona
While large resorts with many pools and restaurants are usually fun, I was looking for a more intimate experience to celebrate my anniversary. Briar Patch Inn in Sedona was perfect. We landed in Phoenix and drove about two hours north. I thought about landing at Sedona Airport but I usually avoid connecting flights if the drive is nice.
My favorite time here were the quiet mornings with red rock surroundings. The sound of a creek outside my window felt extra special. There are just 19 cozy cabins tucked into 9 lush acres acres, so you get personal attention and privacy.
I loved the fireplaces in the cabins, and the creekside massages. And the breakfasts? They’re as comforting as the setting.
My highlight? The serene riverside breakfast, served in the garden courtyard. I had homemade granola with fresh berries and Greek yogurt, plus a warm cinnamon scone and a mug of rich local coffee. Surrounded by sycamore trees and the gentle sound of Oak Creek, it was a peaceful, grounding start to the day.
Address:
Briar Patch Inn, 3190 N. Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336Phone: 928-282-2342
Under Canvas Grand Canyon
I was really glad when I discovered Under Canvas Grand Canyon. It's such a special place to stay. I got to sleep under the stars without roughing it! I had to time my visit when it was open (from mid-April to late October) so I settled on October which tends to be quieter here.
Under Canvas Grand Canyon was just 25 minutes from the South Rim so I enjoyed several trips out to see the magnificent Grand Canyon. If you're planning your first trip here, I wanted to mention that you need some time to get acclimated to both the heat and elevation.
My tent had a real bed and a private bathroom. I live in a Dark Skies neighborhood in Texas and have my own telescope in my backyard. So trust me when I say...stargazing is next level!
My highlight? The fireside dinner under the stars, featuring cast iron chicken with roasted root vegetables and chimichurri. The communal dining setup added warmth, and the staff served everything with a casual, camp-style elegance. With lanterns glowing and constellations above, it was glamping at its finest.
Address:
Under Canvas Grand Canyon, 979 Airpark Lane, Grand Canyon Junction, AZ 86046Phone: 888-496-1148
Relaxing Romantic Weekend Getaways in Arizona:
The Royal Palms for Couples
A few years ago, while still living on the East Coast, I just wanted to zip in and out of Phoenix after a weekend by the pool and at the spa. That was my first visit to The Royal Palms!
I enjoyed the palm tree setting, Camelback Mountain views and the resort's upscale amenities.
Next time I plan to splurge on a private cabana by the pool and spend more time at the spa. The Mediterranean restaurant was very romantic.
My highlight? The romantic dinner at T. Cook’s, set inside a historic Mediterranean-style mansion. I had the seared scallops with saffron risotto and a glass of crisp white wine. Candlelight, Spanish tiles, and orange blossom in the air made it feel like a secret garden escape in the heart of the desert.
Address:
The Royal Palms, 5200 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018Phone: 602-840-3610
Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon
If you’ve ever dreamed of falling asleep under a sky full of stars, without giving up your cozy bed and hot shower—then Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon in Williams, AZ is for you. I stayed in one of their Sky Domes and it felt like something out of a movie. You get glamping luxury with an unforgettable view of the night sky, just minutes from the Grand Canyon.
I couldn’t get enough of the panoramic dome views, the swing chairs, and the way the place balances adventure with relaxation. You’ll have everything you need...but still feel totally connected to the beauty of the desert.
My highlight? The fun, family-style dinner in the outdoor dining dome. I had the brisket sliders with Southwest slaw and a prickly pear lemonade. As the sky turned deep blue and stars emerged, the setting felt otherworldly and perfectly in tune with the nearby canyon’s vastness.
Address:
Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon, 629 High Grove Rd, Williams, AZ 86046Phone: 888-704-4445
I loved being just 25 minutes from Grand Canyon village so that I could visit more than once while staying in my Sky Dome.
Sky Ranch Lodge Resort and Botanical Gardens, Sedona
Another favorite experience in Sedona was Sky Ranch Lodge Resort and Botanical Gardens. I stayed here once on a weekend trip and immediately felt the calm settle in. Between the sweeping views and peaceful gardens, it’s hard not to relax and reconnect.
What stuck with me the most? Those panoramic views, the quiet garden paths, and sipping wine on the patio while the sun set over the red rocks. It was all about the little moments here.
My highlight? The sunset cocktail hour on the overlook terrace. I sipped a Sedona Mule and nibbled on a charcuterie board while watching the red rocks light up in golden hues. The mix of botanical beauty and panoramic views made it the perfect golden hour escape.
Address:
Sky Ranch Lodge Resort and Botanical Gardens, 1105 Airport Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336Phone: 928-282-6400
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain - 20 minutes from Phoenix
I also want to mention Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley. I had to spend a night to wait for a meeting and I really appreciated how easy it was easy to get to from the Phoenix airport. The spa, pool and natural red rock surroundings really made it worth it for me!
Honestly, I’m still dreaming about the Asian-inspired spa treatments and the serene desert setting. It’s the kind of place that helps you reset and I only wish I had time to stay longer.
My highlight? The refined dinner at elements, where the cuisine is as breathtaking as the mountain views. I ordered the pan-seared halibut with coconut curry sauce and jasmine rice. With floor-to-ceiling windows, soft lighting, and flawless service, it was one of those evenings that felt both luxurious and soulful.
Address:
Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, 5700 E McDonald Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253Phone: 855-245-2051
If you are looking for something unique to do...Head to Lake Arizona and check out the activities offered by Pleasant Harbor Boat Rentals. Hire a boat and take to the waters, where you can enjoy activities such as swimming, water skiing, knee boarding, and tubing. If you have a bit more daredevil in you, try Flyboarding, the latest in extreme sports.
The Scott Resort & Spa in Scottsdale
A romantic escape with a splash of style...that's how I'd describe The Scott Resort & Spa in Scottsdale. I stayed here on a weekend getaway and instantly fell for the tropical design, relaxing setting, and how close everything is. I went out to explore Old Town, and returned to the perfect blend of luxury and comfort a few hours later.
Your dog is welcome here too!
My highlight? The tropical-inspired dinner at The Canal Club. I had the Cuban pork shoulder with plantains and black beans, paired with a mojito. Between the rattan decor, glowing string lights, and cool mid-century-meets-Havana vibe, it was a stylish desert retreat with flavor to match.
Address:
The Scott Resort & Spa, 4925 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251Phone: 800-528-7867
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Loews Ventana Canyon - 1 hour 45 minutes from Phoenix, Arizona
- • Miraval Resort & Spa
- • Briar Patch Inn - 2 hours from Phoenix, Arizona
- • Under Canvas Grand Canyon
- • The Royal Palms for Couples
- • Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon
- • I loved being just 25 minutes from Grand Canyon village so that I could visit more than once while staying in my Sky Dome.
- • Sky Ranch Lodge Resort and Botanical Gardens, Sedona
- • Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain - 20 minutes from Phoenix
- • The Scott Resort & Spa in Scottsdale