Hotel Valley Ho

Hotel Valley Ho opened in 1956 as Scottsdale’s first motor resort, when the town counted just 6,000 residents and “downtown” barely existed. Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood held their wedding reception here in 1957. Tony Curtis stayed. The property became a mid-century modern landmark, then declined under Ramada management, closed in 2001, and faced demolition until preservationists intervened.

The 2005 restoration by Allen+Philp Architects added a seven-story tower while maintaining Edward L. Varney’s original horizontal lines and jet-age design. Floor-to-ceiling glass remains. Private patios and balconies open from every room. Terrazzo tile, low platform beds, and period-appropriate furniture honor the 1950s aesthetic without museum stuffiness.

The property sits in Old Town Scottsdale, walking distance from 200+ galleries, restaurants, and shops. Two heated pools anchor the social scene. The circular pool references a martini glass rim—intentional design, not accident. VH Spa is on the second floor, with eight treatment rooms and a deck overlooking the pool area.

This functions as an urban boutique hotel with spa amenities, not a destination spa property. Guests book for the mid-century vibe, the location, and the scene. The spa complements rather than defines the experience. Treatments draw from Hawaiian techniques—the signature Hammam full-body treatment and papaya-pineapple enzyme wrap reflect this influence.

ZuZu restaurant serves seasonal American food. The space flows from counter to bar to community table with an exhibition kitchen. Chef Russell LaCavalier focuses on straightforward preparation. The OH Pool Bar operates poolside, offering drinks and light fare.

The seven-story Tower offers the most spacious accommodations—one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and sweeping views of downtown Scottsdale or Camelback Mountain. Standard rooms in the original wings measure approximately 420 square feet. All include 49-inch TVs, premium bedding, and Red Flower bath products.

Peak season runs from November through April when temperatures hover around 70°F. Summer sees rates drop by 40 percent as temperatures exceed 105°F, though morning spa treatments and evening pool use remain viable options. The property attracts a mix: business travelers during the week, couples and groups on weekends, and wedding parties year-round.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport sits 7 miles away, roughly 15-20 minutes by car depending on traffic. The complimentary Scottsdale Trolley stops at the property entrance.

Who’s It For

Design-conscious urban travellers who want a characterful base in Old Town Scottsdale with quality spa access — not a wellness retreat. Couples, solo business travellers, and groups drawn to the mid-century atmosphere and poolside scene. Anyone for whom ZuZu and two heated pools are as important as the treatment menu.

Who’s It Not For

Guests seeking a destination spa with full hydrotherapy circuits, multi-day wellness programmes, or all-day thermal facilities. VH Spa is open Wed–Sun only and closes at 5 pm. If spa access is your primary reason for booking, the limited hours will frustrate you. Families expecting a resort-scale experience or guests sensitive to weekend poolside noise should also consider alternatives.

Is It Worth the Price

At peak-season rates ($350–470), the value proposition depends on what you’re booking. If the mid-century design, Old Town walkability, ZuZu restaurant, and boutique atmosphere are the draw — yes, emphatically. If you’re paying primarily for the spa, the price-to-spa ratio is weaker than that of purpose-built alternatives at a similar price point. No resort fee is a genuine differentiator.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Authentic mid-century modern design; no resort fee; exceptional location (walkable Old Town); 24/7 fitness; strong service culture, consistently evident across reviews; ZuZu is genuinely good.

Cons: VH Spa open Wed–Sun only; no thermal or hydrotherapy circuit; weekend pool noise; street-facing rooms can be disruptive; valet-only parking ($20/night for hotel guests).

Best Alternatives

• Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows (SpaRator 8.2) — fuller spa offering, 23 desert acres, for those prioritising wellness over urban access
• Miraval Arizona — destination spa with structured programming, for those who need more than treatments
• Royal Palms Resort & Spa (SpaRator 7.9) — historic estate feel, Camelback Road location, comparable boutique scale

Booking Strategy

Book directly via the hotel’s website or call for the best flexible rate. Flexible rates can be adjusted down if prices drop — one TripAdvisor reviewer saved ~$200 by checking rates closer to arrival and rebooking. Avoid non-refundable promotions unless dates are firm. For spa access, book treatments separately at 480.376.2600; reserve at least 48 hours ahead during peak season.

Best Room Types

Tower suites offer full kitchens, washer/dryers, and elevated views toward downtown Scottsdale or Camelback Mountain. Original-wing cabana rooms are at ground level with direct pool-patio access — premium over standard rooms but worth it for the pool’s proximity. Avoid street-facing rooms on the Camelback side if noise is a concern.

When to Go

November–April for classic Scottsdale weather (~70°F). February, during the WM Phoenix Open, if golf is part of the trip, but book early and expect premium rates. May–October for significant savings (40% off peak); morning spa treatments and evening pool use remain viable despite daytime heat above 100°F.

Best Spa Days

Wednesday or Thursday for Swell Specials — mid-week discounts on facials (60-min Wellness Facial from $135 vs. $175 standard) with a complimentary glass of prosecco. Arrive 20 minutes early as the hotel requires a pre-treatment shower. Day guests booking 60+ minute treatments receive complimentary pool access and valet parking.