17 Epic Ways to Enjoy Scottsdale’s Mid-Century Gem • Traveling with Purpose

Whether you’re a visitor from out of town or a local in the Valley of the Sun, you’ll find some epic fun at the Hotel Valley Ho in Old Town Scottsdale. Are you looking for something unique, but close to all the action? Maybe a place where Hollywood celebrities, famous musicians, and professional athletes have lounged at the pools for decades? Look no further than the Hotel Valley Ho. It’s within easy walking distance of all the action and nightlife in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona.

This hotel has a rich history. It’s been around so long that Scottsdale’s Main Street ends at the Hotel Valley Ho property. But just because this mid-century beauty opened in 1956 doesn’t mean it’s a has-been. This lovely lady recently received an 80-million-dollar makeover. The new owners lovingly preserved the authentic mid-century vibe while still offering luxurious modern amenities and beautiful, relaxing spaces.

What Guests are saying about the Hotel Valley Ho

Often, the most important opinions are those with first-hand experience. These readers’ choice awards, as well as the Historic Hotels designation, speak volumes about what’s most impressive about the resort.

Historic Hotels of America Member

A member of Historic Hotels of America since 2007. The organization is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which recognizes and celebrates the finest historic hotels, inns, and resorts across the United States. Today, the reborn Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale has resumed its historic status as one of the finest vacation hotspots in all of Arizona.

• The 2024 awards for Top 10 Resorts in the Southwest US were based on over 575,000 votes cast across all hotel categories, with Hotel Valley Ho coming in at #6.

17 Fun and Creative Things to Do at Hotel Valley Ho (Even if You’re Not Staying There)

1. Book a Stay at Old Town Scottsdale’s Hidden Gem

Looking for a Scottsdale, Arizona getaway that blends style, comfort, and unforgettable experiences? Whether you’re planning a guys’ trip for the Super Bowl, PGA Phoenix Open, or Spring Training—or organizing a girls’ weekend near the nightlife—Hotel Valley Ho delivers. This mid-century modern resort is Old Town Scottsdale’s best-kept secret; it’s a vibrant destination packed with personality, perfect for romantic escapes, family vacations, or solo retreats.

I’ve explored this gem myself and discovered the little-known details and on-site perks that often go unnoticed by first-timers. From refreshing spa days and design-forward dining to vintage vibes and one-of-a-kind experiences, this iconic Scottsdale hotel offers unique amenities and activities for every type of traveler, whether you’re staying a week or meeting friends for drinks. Forget the cookie-cutter hotels. At Hotel Valley Ho, you get the best of both worlds: boutique retro-chic charm and modern luxury.

You’ll find a wide range of stylish rooms from about 420 square feet [39 sq meters] with a balcony or terrace to the 1335 sq ft [124 sq meters] luxurious Loft Suite, including a kitchen, sitting area, and spacious loft. Booking.com guests rate this trendy resort as wonderful! 9.1 out of 10

These are just a few of the perks at Hotel Valley Ho when you book a room.

• No resort fee
• Private patio or balcony
• Floor-to-ceiling glass
• Pillow-top bed
• Bath amenities from Red Flower
• Mini bar with gourmet snacks and beverages
• Morning bar with complimentary coffee
• Free wifi
• Hair dryer and ironing board
• Laptop-sized safe
• Pet-friendly
• Old Town restaurants and shops are nearby
• Safe, walkable neighborhood
• Loyalty rewards
• Some rooms even have a kitchenette

2. Explore the Valley Ho’s Mid-Century Architecture

Think Hotel Valley Ho is just for out-of-towners? Think again! Whether you’re staying overnight or just popping in for cocktails with colleagues, spa time with sisters, or a dose of mid-century magic, this iconic Scottsdale resort has something for everyone.

Do you love mid-century modern architecture? Are you bored with chain hotels that look the same, no matter what city you’re in? I love the mid-century Frank Lloyd Wright vibe at Valley Ho and had the privilege of taking the “Magical History Tour” of the property. You don’t even have to take the tour to enjoy the vibe, though. [See more below about the tour.]

When I wandered through the hotel, I felt like I had stepped onto the set of a glamorous 1950s Hollywood film. Hotel Valley Ho’s colorful, mid-century modern aesthetic—bold geometric patterns, pops of orange, and sleek lines—makes every corner Instagram-worthy.

Much of the iconic architecture can be traced back to the original architect, Edward L. Varney, Jr. The Valley Ho is a prime example of the mid-century modern design of the 1950s, similar in feel to Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, who also made his home in Scottsdale.

Architect Varney nailed it with his mix of masonry, concrete, natural stone, and tons of glass, making the hotel feel intimately connected to its surroundings. The stone patterns on the floors and walls flow seamlessly from the entrance to the lobby, along with the redwood ceiling. Today, the hotel is celebrated as one of the best examples of organic architecture.

When you’re in the hotel lobby, don’t forget to look up at the modern sculpture on the ceiling too.

3. Take a Dip in the OH Pool

Hotel Valley Ho has two main pools, the OH Pool is shown above, where you can take a dip in the pool or hot tub and order food items like fruit plates, nachos, wraps, and shrimp cocktail. Or treat the kiddos to a grilled cheese sandwich or burger from the kids’ menu. You’ll never go thirsty with the cold, refreshing drink options (with or without alcohol) available as singles or some as pitchers to share.

If you’re planning to spend time at the pool on the weekend, there’s a great chance to hear the resident DJ playing all your favorite tunes in the afternoon. Daybeds, cabanas, and patio tables can be reserved in advance at the OH Pool to ensure a spot for a memorable pool day.

OH Pool hours are 6 am to 10 pm, unless a private event is being held. Pool access is available to overnight hotel guests, as well as those with daybed and cabana reservations. Cabana and daybed reservations 10 am to 6 pm.

4. Lounge at the OHasis Pool – For Guests Only

The rectangular OHasis pool [pictured above] is nestled between two blocks of rooms farther back into the property. It’s a more intimate space for swimming laps or enjoying a good book. This pool is open from 9 am to 6 pm to hotel guests only. Check with the hotel staff to see what food and drinks are available at the Ohasis pool.

5. Reserve a Hotel Valley Ho Resort Day Pass

Did you know that you can spend time at the pool even if you aren’t staying as an overnight guest at the hotel? You can book a cabana, daybed, poolside table, or a variety of experiences or pool day passes year-round through ResortPass.com. Blackout dates apply.

6. Enjoy Award-Winning Dining at Zuzu

Named after the owner’s family matriarch, Zuzu was a fantastic cook who believed that food is better when it’s shared with the people you love. Executive Chef Russell Lacasce brings that vision to life as he serves up bold flavors with an elevated, yet playful twist.

Start with a classic short rib entrée that melts in your mouth, or indulge in the famous Show Stopper Shake, an over-the-top dessert extravaganza that changes monthly. Every taste is a blend of nostalgia and innovation. Daily Chef’s creations are inspired by the season.

Reservations are available for the dining room or patio.

7. Beat the Crowds for Brunch

If you’ve ever been to Scottsdale late on a weekend morning, you know that it’s almost impossible to find a place for brunch that doesn’t have an infinitely long waitlist. ZuZu’s serves brunch every day from 6 am to 2:30 pm, and you can beat the crowds by making a reservation, then sleep in as long as you like!

8. Meet Your Friends for ZuZu Happy Hour

Grab some friends, family, or co-workers and head to Hotel Valley Ho for ZuZu’s Happy Hour, Monday through Thursday from 4 pm to 6 pm. You’ll find a selection of featured beer, wine, and cocktails at budget-friendly prices, plus a happy hour menu with tasty snacks like Buttermilk Fried Calamari or a Roasted Garlic Moroccan Hummus plate.

9. Check Out Hotel Valley Ho Culinary Events

Check their website for special dining events throughout the year. These events are open to anyone, whether you’re a guest of the hotel or not.

You’ll find live music, a Chef’s Roulette interactive dining experience, a special summer Prix Fixe Menu, and Hospitality industry discount nights. Or enjoy non-stop laughs at their Comedy Night with snacks and a beverage included in the price.

In the cooler months, you can even reserve an outdoor fire pit with 7 of your favorite friends. Order food and drinks and enjoy S’mores around the campfire!

10. Relax and Rejuvenate at the VH Spa

Step into the second-floor VH Spa for Vitality + Health, where relaxation is redefined. The space includes a 24/7 fitness center with weights, Peloton bikes, and other cutting-edge exercise machines. The spa is currently open Wednesday through Sunday and offers a wide variety of skin care treatments, spa packages, seasonal specials, and even an Astrology Vibe Check.

You can even opt for the Desert Lavender Wrap, a sensory escape with warm lavender-infused towels, or the Coffee + Sugar Scrub, leaving your skin silky smooth and glowing. The Spa is also available to Day Guests. If you book a treatment of 60 minutes or longer, you’ll also get a pool pass to go with it. It’s self-care, Valley Ho-style.

11. Learn about the History of the Valley Ho

Even though the sleepy desert town of Scottsdale was incorporated with a population of 1,200 people only 5 years before Hotel Valley Ho opened, the hotel epitomized mid-century modern sophistication. All 99 rooms featured black and white televisions with their own antennas, and modern central air conditioning. Some even had kitchenettes. The hotel established itself as Scottsdale’s first hotel capable of year-round operation with room rates between $7.50 and $10 per night. Soon, it became one of the most popular destinations in the American Southwest.

Because of the California connections of the original owners, Robert and Evelyn Foehl, throngs of celebrities made their way to this desert oasis away from the crowds of Hollywood. Fashion shows were hosted around the pool, and MLB Spring Training athletes used the hotel as their “home base” [pun intended].

Architect Edward Varney, celebrated for his minimalist and modern aesthetic, designed the hotel with forward-thinking innovation. His visionary approach included burying all electrical wiring, plumbing, and mechanical fixtures in underground tunnels. This uncommon concept in 1956 aligns perfectly with modern practices. Find out more about the architecture and history at the Historic Hotels of America website here.

12. Go Behind the Scenes on a Magical History Tour

You can find out more about the Hotel Valley Ho’s history on the 90-minute walking “Magical History Tour” offered at the hotel. The tour is available to locals, visitors, and guests, so you don’t have to be staying there to take advantage of it. If you’re a fan of mid-century modern architecture or Arizona history, it’s an excellent place to learn more about the Valley Ho and Scottsdale.

My sweet friend, Linda, joined me for our tour. [pictured above] Her husband is a guitar player. On the tour, we learned that these electric guitars were donated to the hotel by the Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, which is also located in Scottsdale.

What you get with the Magical History tour

On the Magical History Tour, we had a chance to:

• Learn about the history and architecture of the hotel.
• Hear about the new owners and recent major renovations
• Walk through several of the mid-century modern guest rooms
• Stroll through the gorgeous main lobby and courtyard areas
• Check out the VH Spa spaces
• Step back in time, looking at the vintage photos of Hollywood royalty that stayed at the hotel

Tours are limited to a maximum of 10 people. At the time of publishing this post, the tour costs $35 per person, with a minimum of two people. Each additional person is only $25. With the tour, you’ll also receive a 20% off voucher that you can use at ZuZu, Shop VH, or the VH Spa Boutique.

The tour isn’t available every day, so you’ll want to book online in advance through the Valley Ho website here.

13. Stay Alert for Celebrity Sightings

Some of the first celebrity sightings in the early days at Hotel Valley Ho were Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner—they even had their wedding reception here in 1957! Then there was Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, who called the hotel home while filming parts of the movie “Psycho” nearby. Oh, and Jimmy Durante often rocked the grand piano in the hotel’s fabulous lounge.

Legends like Clark Gable, Cary Grant, Bing Crosby, Humphrey Bogart, Bette Davis, Marilyn Monroe, and Zsa Zsa Gabor all stayed there. And let’s not forget the baseball greats—after several MLB teams moved their Spring Training to the area, stars like Bob Feller, Leo Durocher, and Ted Williams became regulars at the hotel.

In case you think the celebrities have stopped coming, some of the more recent stars who’ve had getaways at the Valley Ho Resort are actors Billy Bob Thornton, Diane Keaton, and Martin Short. Rapper Snoop Dogg, NFL’s Colin Kaepernick, and the amazing cellist YoYo Ma have also stayed at the resort.

14. Retail Therapy at the VH Spa Boutique or Gift Shop

Pick up a few treats to take home from the VH Spa Boutique or the handy Gift Shop in the lobby. You’ll find Hotel Valley Ho signature apparel, sunglasses, beauty and wellness products, and much more.

15. Spin Back in Time With the Vinyl Rewind Package

Ready to kick it old-school? Transport your stay to the rockin’ ’50s and groovy ’60s with this retro-cool package. The resort will set you up with a sleek Crosley record player and a handpicked stack of vinyl—10 classic albums from Hotel Valley Ho’s golden era. Just press play and let the vintage vibes fill your hotel room. The package must be reserved at least two days in advance to ensure availability.

16. Book Your Wedding at the Hotel Valley Ho

While on the tour, we had a chance to peek behind the scenes at the private 3500 square foot Skyline Rooftop Terrace [shown above]. It sits atop the 7-story tower with gorgeous views of Camelback Mountain, Downtown Scottsdale, as well as the Phoenix skyline and mountain ranges in the distance. It doesn’t take much imagination to plan the perfect reception, party, or wedding with twinkling lights surrounded by city skylines for miles. The sky is literally the limit.

The hotel offers five different spaces for a variety of wedding and event styles and capacities. Check out their website for more info on their Wedding Packages and beautiful spaces right in the heart of Scottsdale.

17. Choose Your Adventure for a Meeting or Group Activity

Are you hosting a local workshop, your best friend’s wedding shower, or bringing in a group from out of town for a corporate retreat? Hotel Valley Ho is a seriously cool spot for groups of any size to gather. With a mix of indoor and outdoor venues—like stylish ballrooms, breezy patios, and rooftop spaces—you can easily tailor the vibe to fit your group.

Locals love it for its central location in Old Town Scottsdale, while visitors get a true taste of Arizona charm with retro flair, desert sunshine, and plenty of places to explore once the meetings wrap. The best part? You’re not boxed into stiff, one-size-fits-all packages. Whether you’re organizing a team-building event, client celebration, reunion, or creative brainstorming session, the hotel’s team helps you customize the experience—from food and room setups to fun add-ons like spa breaks, movie nights, or poolside cocktails. It’s a refreshing change from the typical hotel event and a great way to wow your group, no matter where they’re coming from.

Other Fun Experiences in Scottsdale

When visiting the Valley Ho Hotel, here are some great resources for finding other epic experiences and tours while you’re in the area.

Get Your Guide – Scottsdale Experiences include culinary walking tours, hot air balloon rides, UTV and mountain bike adventures, day tours to the Grand Canyon and Sedona and more.

Expedia Travel – Scottsdale Adventures & beyond include Desert Jeep Tours, lake cruises, wine tasting day trips, private photoshoots, ghost tours, culinary classes and tours and more.

Pro Tips: Valley Ho Parking, Pets, Fees & More

• You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that Hotel Valley Ho does NOT charge a resort fee!
• Valley Ho is Pet Friendly! Pets stay free at the Valley Ho, but be sure to let them know when you make your reservation. When you arrive, your dog will get a welcome package with dog treats, a double-sided bowl for water and food, pet clean-up bags, and a ‘Pet in Room’ sign. A limited supply of elevated dog beds are also available on loan.
• Room rates include access to VH Spa facilities, the fitness center, pool areas, and complimentary in-room coffee and daily newspaper service (upon request).
• Basic wifi is free. Choice and premium internet is available for a fee.
• The Valley Ho offers loyalty rewards where you can earn discounts on food, drink, and stays, plus more cool perks.
• Day Parking is provided by Valet Service for $15 per vehicle, [includes tax, but you’ll want to tip]
• If you’re on a budget, you can also find street parking or public parking lots owned by the city of Scottsdale off the property, and easy to walk to.
• Overnight self-service or valet parking is $28/day plus tax.
• While the hotel wants everyone to have a great time, they do have a “No Party Policy” that says “The hotel has a no-party policy in its guest rooms and suites. This is enforced in the following manner. If the hotel is made aware that there are too many occupants in a room, or that the noise level is disturbing others through noise complaints or by observation, hotel security will visit the accommodation and request that the matter be immediately remedied. If security must return again for the same issue, the occupants of the rooms will be evicted without a refund.”
• The closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, PHX. It’s about 7 miles [11.5 KM] away from the hotel. It will take about 15 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

All photo credits to: Hotel Valley Ho, unless otherwise noted.

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