Phoenix Hotel Tips by KevChi

What is a "resort"? The Hilton Tapatio Cliffs makes me wonder about that word. The first room we were given was down a dark walkway next to a rock wall, with a view of a driveway, and NO nearby amenities, not even a pool. We went back to registration (a LONG trek) and were told that the Tapatio Cliffs isn't really "a view property". Getting there doesn't help -- it's right in the north Phoenix land of payday loans and cheezy franchises. Sure enough: if you walk to certain points on the property, you can see over cliffs towards city lights, if that's your idea of a view. We were offered a less dank room for $35 extra -- on top of the outrageous normal charge. And we're not talking lavish rooms here -- our main bathroom at home desperately needs updating, but it's a lot better than the uninspired one of our Hilton room. But back to the question of what is a "resort": If Hilton crammed any more rooms into this property the whole thing would collapse because no one would be able to drive around. Perhaps 20% of the rooms have a view of anything other than a parking lot. Hilton mentions the "eight pools", but a complex at the far "left" end closes at something like 8 pm, and all other pools are small and relatively shallow. There is a single water slide tube, oh boy. Restaurants? Well, there are two very expensive places, one of which monopolizes the only striking view in the whole place. There is a "cantina" that is a pathetic-looking bar with a few tables, and coffee and sweet rolls available in the gift shop. Thrilling, huh? When you think of "resort", what amenities do you think of? OK, there are some tennis courts and a golf course next door, but that's pretty much it. For the life of me, I can't figure out why anyone considers this a "resort". The only reason I can see why people come here: because their companies send them -- while we were there no fewer than five different business conferences were in progress. I don't think independent travelers would come here for a "resort" experience, certainly not twice!

Unique Qualities: NONE.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: more expensive than average
Prices: US$120-180  » Currency Converter
Address: 11111 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Directions: See where all the attractions in the Phoenix area are? Near downtown, or east in Scottsdale, or in Mesa or Tempe, or south of the city? The Hilton Tapatio Cliffs is near none of them.