Romantic Weekend Getaways in Arizona
Arizona is home to some of the best romantic weekend getaways in the Southwest, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite states for couples’ escapes.
From desert sunsets to mountain retreats, Arizona offers the best mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure, along with some unique spots that feel wonderfully underrated. I’ve been covering Arizona trips for 30 years, which makes me a true expert.
Whether you’re enjoying the best red rock views in Sedona, strolling the unique historic streets of Tucson, or unwinding at a luxury spa in Scottsdale, each destination sets the stage for romance. That’s why these places rank among the best romantic getaways in the region, and why they’ve become my favorite recommendations for couples.
The best part is the variety: desert landscapes, charming small towns, and cozy mountain settings. Think stargazing under Arizona’s clear skies, savoring the best local wines, or hiking to unique overlooks that feel made just for two. These details are what make Arizona’s weekend getaways both unique and among the best you’ll find anywhere.
Most spots are just a few hours’ drive from Phoenix or Tucson, making them the best kind of easy weekend escape. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, Arizona delivers the best settings to spark romance.
Which Arizona weekend getaway will you choose? If you’re searching for the best mix of scenery, romance, and unforgettable moments, these weekend getaways deliver. They’re not just trips, they’re the best, sometimes underrated, always unique, and forever some of my favorite escapes in the Southwest.
Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Arizona:
Loews Ventana Canyon - 1 hour 45 minutes from Phoenix, Arizona
From downtown Tucson, I drove 25 minutes into the Catalina Foothills.
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona, is one of my favorite desert escapes.
I love that it sits right in the Catalina Mountains, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes that make every view feel like a postcard.
The resort feels both luxurious and relaxed, an underrated blend that makes it perfect for couples, families, or even a solo retreat.
My favorite part was the private hiking trail that leads to a beautiful natural waterfall—it felt like such a unique touch for a resort stay.
I found the rooms spacious and elegant, with plush bedding, desert-inspired décor, and balconies that offered sweeping mountain or city views.
For couples, Loews Ventana Canyon is one of the best romantic getaways in Arizona, with candlelit dinners, spa treatments, and starry desert nights that create the perfect mood.
Families will love the pools, tennis courts, and fun outdoor activities that make the resort feel both adventurous and welcoming.
I especially loved dining at Flying V Bar & Grill, where Southwestern flavors and warm ambiance made every meal feel special.
The resort’s golf courses were another highlight, offering championship-level play with some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever experienced.
For me, Loews Ventana Canyon is more than a resort—it’s my favorite kind of desert sanctuary, where relaxation, adventure, and romance come together in one unforgettable getaway.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, 7000 N Resort Dr, Tucson, AZ
- Cost: ~$350–500/night
Mindful Escape at Miraval Resort & Spa
From Tucson, I drove 25 miles north to Miraval Arizona, a resort nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
I think that Miraval Resort & Spa in Tucson is one of the best places for a transformative weekend getaway.
I love that it’s tucked into the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, surrounded by desert beauty that makes the entire property feel like a hidden gem of peace and renewal.
The resort is truly underrated for how much it offers—everything from meditation and yoga to equine therapy and challenge courses designed to inspire balance and mindfulness.
My favorite part was the spa, which felt like a sanctuary within a sanctuary, offering world-class treatments, quiet spaces, and outdoor pools with mountain views.
I found the guest rooms warm and inviting, with soft earth tones, luxurious bedding, and private patios that made it easy to relax and reflect.
For couples, Miraval is one of the best romantic retreats, with opportunities to reconnect through spa rituals, mindfulness workshops, and peaceful desert walks together.
Families seeking relaxation will also find comfort here, though the focus is more on personal growth and wellness than traditional family activities.
I especially loved the culinary experience, where every meal was fresh, healthy, and beautifully prepared, making dining one of my favorite highlights of the stay.
My mornings often began with sunrise yoga, followed by a guided hike that set the tone for a day of balance and rejuvenation.
For me, Miraval Resort & Spa is more than just a getaway—it’s a favorite sanctuary where mind, body, and spirit come together in an unforgettable experience of healing and renewal.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Miraval Resort & Spa, 5000 E Via Estancia Miraval, Tucson, AZ
- Cost: ~$700+/night, all-inclusive wellness experience
Briar Patch Inn - 2 hours from Phoenix, Arizona
From Flagstaff, it was a 30-mile drive south into a landscape of red rocks and forest.
I love that Briar Patch Inn sits right along Oak Creek, where the sound of flowing water creates a calming atmosphere that makes the inn feel like a private sanctuary.
The property feels wonderfully underrated, with 19 rustic cabins scattered among gardens, sycamores, and fruit trees—it’s like stepping into a storybook retreat.
My favorite part was the cozy cabin I stayed in, complete with a wood-burning fireplace, colorful Southwestern décor, and a private patio that made the evenings magical.
I found breakfast to be a highlight as well—homemade, fresh, and served outdoors with breathtaking views of the red cliffs surrounding the inn.
For couples, Briar Patch Inn is one of the most romantic escapes in Sedona, offering quiet spaces, starry skies, and a sense of total seclusion.
Families will also love the open grounds, trails, and direct creek access, making it easy to explore nature together.
I especially loved lounging in a hammock by the creek with a good book, listening to the water and birds—it was my favorite moment of pure relaxation.
The location is perfect too, just minutes from Uptown Sedona, while still feeling far removed from the bustle of shops and tourists.
For me, Briar Patch Inn is more than just a stay—it’s my favorite kind of Sedona getaway, where romance, nature, and tranquility come together in the most unforgettable way.
My highlights? A picnic-style breakfast brought to our door: homemade granola, fresh fruit, warm muffins, and locally roasted coffee.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Briar Patch Inn, 3190 N State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ
- Cost: ~$250–375/night
Starry Skies and Cozy Fires at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
From Williams, it was just a 30-mile drive north into the high desert plains.
Under Canvas Grand Canyon is one of my favorite glamping experiences.
I love that it combines the adventure of camping with the comfort of a boutique hotel, making it an underrated way to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing luxury.
The tents are spacious and beautifully designed, with king-size beds, wood-burning stoves, and private decks that made my stay feel cozy and romantic.
My favorite part was sitting out by the firepit at night, watching the stars light up the Arizona sky—it felt like pure magic.
I found the location perfect, just a short drive from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, while still feeling secluded enough to immerse myself in nature.
For couples, this spot is one of the best romantic adventures, with private tents, glowing lanterns, and the chance to experience the canyon in a unique way.
Families will also love it, as kids can enjoy s’mores by the fire, open outdoor spaces, and the excitement of sleeping under canvas with a touch of comfort.
I especially loved the on-site dining, which offered fresh, seasonal meals and added to the sense of community with other travelers.
The staff were warm and welcoming, offering tips for exploring the canyon and arranging activities like guided hikes and horseback riding.
For me, Under Canvas Grand Canyon is more than just glamping—it’s my favorite way to combine adventure, comfort, and nature for an unforgettable desert getaway.
A downside? Sleeping under the stars was magical, but the rustic setup meant chilly nights.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Under Canvas Grand Canyon, 979
- Cost: ~$350–500/night
Old-World Romance at The Royal Palms
From Scottsdale, it was only a 6-mile drive to Royal Palms, nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain.
I love that The Royal Palms Resort and Spa blends Spanish Mediterranean style with Arizona’s natural beauty, making the entire property feel timeless, elegant, and wonderfully underrated.
The resort itself is stunning, with cobblestone paths, lush gardens, and courtyards filled with fountains that create an atmosphere of pure romance.
My favorite part was the historic mansion at the heart of the property, which gave the resort so much character and charm.
I found the rooms and casitas beautifully designed, with rich textures, warm colors, and private patios that made my stay feel intimate and special.
For couples, this is one of the best romantic getaways in Arizona—every corner feels designed for connection, from candlelit dinners to serene spa treatments.
Families will also enjoy the spacious suites, the welcoming atmosphere, and the gorgeous pool that’s perfect for sunny afternoons.
I especially loved dining at T. Cook’s, the on-site restaurant, which served incredible Mediterranean-inspired dishes that felt both fresh and indulgent.
The location is another highlight—just minutes from downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale, yet it feels like a secluded desert retreat.
For me, The Royal Palms is more than just a resort—it’s my favorite kind of getaway, where history, romance, and luxury come together in one unforgettable Arizona escape.
Travel Tips:
- Location: The Royal Palms, 5200 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ
- Best For: Anniversary escapes or a dreamy staycation
- Cost: ~$400–600/night
Futuristic Romance Under the Stars at Clear Sky Resorts
Clear Sky Resorts in Williams, Arizona, is one of my favorite weekend getaways under the stars.
I love that the resort offers unique geodesic dome accommodations, making it an underrated alternative to traditional hotels in the area.
The domes are cozy yet modern, with plush bedding, climate control, and large panoramic windows that made stargazing my favorite part of the stay.
I found the property full of fun extras like hammocks, swings, yard games, and fire pits that created a playful, family-friendly atmosphere.
For couples, Clear Sky Resorts is one of the best romantic escapes, with private domes, glowing night skies, and peaceful desert surroundings.
Families will also love the themed domes—some decorated with vibrant designs, others with whimsical touches that make the experience unforgettable for kids.
My favorite moment was watching the sunset over the high desert and then seeing the Milky Way come alive through the dome’s giant sky window.
I especially loved the sense of seclusion—the resort feels remote and adventurous, yet it’s just a short drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
The staff were warm and welcoming, and the nightly s’mores by the campfire added a charming touch to the stay.
For me, Clear Sky Resorts is more than just a hotel—it’s my favorite kind of Arizona adventure, where comfort, creativity, and nature come together in one unforgettable getaway.
A downside? The futuristic domes were fun and unique, but the remote desert setting meant limited dining nearby.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon, 629 Highgrove Rd, Valle, AZ
- Cost: ~$300–450/night
Conclusion
From Sedona’s spiritual stillness to Tucson’s desert-luxe retreats, Arizona offers more than romantic escapes, it offers shared experiences you’ll carry home with you. Whether you find your magic under a dome of stars, in a mountain spa, or over wine in a historic hideaway, one thing is certain: Arizona makes it easy to fall in love all over again. With the landscape as your backdrop, the journey becomes just as romantic as the destination.
My personal highlights:
What I love most is how Arizona offers the best of both worlds, Sedona’s breathtaking red rocks, Scottsdale’s spa resorts, the underrated charm of Jerome, or Flagstaff’s cool mountain air. Each feels unique and has quickly become one of my favorite romantic getaway experiences.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
