Where to Stay When Visiting Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is an awe-inspiring park filled with the magnificent saguaro cacti – the tall, “stereotypical” cactus that lives 150 years and can grow to be 12 feet tall!

These cacti, found only in the Sonoran Desert, are such an incredible sight, and spending 1-2 days in Saguaro exploring the park, hiking the trails, admiring the viewpoints, and enjoying the sunsets will be an adventure you never forget.

Short on time and just need some quick info? These are my top picks for hotels near Saguaro:
JTH Posada: A stunning boutique hotel just outside of Saguaro West
Blenman Inn: A historic hotel in downtown
Tanque Verde Ranch: All-inclusive resort with lots of adventure activities

The Quandry of Where to Stay Near Saguaro

When you’re deciding where to stay when visiting Saguaro National Park, there are some unique considerations to take into account. Mainly, Saguaro is divided into two different districts: The West District (or Tucson Mountain District) and the East District (or the Rincon Mountain District).

These two areas are on opposite sides of the city of Tucson, and it takes at least a full hour to get between each Visitor Center. In addition, each park is in a fairly remote area. In particular, the entrance to the West District is quite isolated.

All of this to say, there is literally no spot where you can be close (< 15-minute drive) to the entrance of both sides of the National Park. It’s also hard to find a spot that’s close to an entrance plus close to amenities like restaurants, stores, and gas stations.

So, in this post, we’re going to discuss several areas that would make for good places to stay when visiting Saguaro, and highlight what they are good for, so that you can choose according to your priorities.

1. Where to Stay Near Saguaro West

Saguaro West, overall, was my preferred district of the national park. It’s the best side if you want to do great hiking trails (including Wasson Peak, the tallest peak in the Tucson Mountains) or catch an epic sunset. In general, I thought it was easier to be surrounded by saguaros in the west district than the east district.

However, Saguaro West does not have many overlooks, where you just get out of your car and admire the view.

The Saguaro West is located on the Tucson Mountain range that borders the west side of Tucson, but most of the hikes and attractions are on the west side of the mountains, meaning that if you’re coming from the city, you have to drive around to the backside of the mountains to access trailheads, the visitor center, etc.

Because of that, this side of the park feels much more remote, as you have to drive for at least 15-20 minutes in the middle of the desert to reach the main park entrance.

Best Hotel Close to Saguaro West: JTH Posada

• This luxurious boutique hotel is just a 5-minute drive from the entrance to Saguaro West.
• The facilities are gorgeous – with white stucco walls, exposed beams, natural wood elements, and filled with southwestern desert decor and styling.
• The inn sits on 38 acres of land, filled with a Saguaro forest, walking trails through beautifully cultivated vegetation and gardens, a canyon pool, and hot springs style hot tub.
• You aren’t close to any restaurants or shops, but if you want an idyllic retreat, this is the place for you.
• Check prices and availability for the JTH Posada here

Best Hotel for Families: White Stallion Ranch

• The White Stallion Ranch is a family-owned hotel with ranch-style activities, just north of Saguaro West. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the hotel to the park.
• The hotel is perfectly appointed for families with multiple children, as the family suites have a queen bed and 3 singles, and a lot of space.
• Rooms have a rugged western theme and are surrounded by saguaros, making for an immersive experience.
• Activities on the property include gardens, horseback riding, shooting, archery, plus a year-round outdoor pool, a playground, and tennis courts.
• Check prices and availability for the White Stallion Ranch here

Best Value Near Saguaro West: My Place Hotel – Tucson South

• This hotel is located on the south side of Tucson and Saguaro West, and is a 30-minute drive to the park. It’s close to both I-10 and I-17.
• This is a great budget-friendly option, that still has clean and updated facilities and high reviews.
• If you want to prepare or store food, this is a great place to stay, as all rooms come with an ensuite kitchenette.
• You’re very close to many shops and restaurants, offering a high level of convenience.
• Check prices and availability for the My Place Hotel – Tucson South here

2. Downtown Tucson: The Most Central Area to Stay

Downtown Tucson is undoubtedly where all the action takes place. Here, you can find a combination of historic buildings and fun attractions, plus plenty of places to eat and shop.

The Fox Tucson Theater is a gorgeous, historic theater, or stop by the Southern Arizona Heritage Center. There are multiple museums in Tucson, and the Tucson Museum of Art is a popular choice. You can also admire the historic St. Augustine Cathedral, a beautiful, white, historic church.

Finally, downtown Tucson has dozens of delicious places to eat and drink, such as El Charro Café, Cup Café, or Charro Steak & Del Rey.

When considering proximity to the national park, downtown Tucson is about 30 minutes to both the east and west sides of Saguaro, and is right off I-10, the major interstate.

Hotel with Most Character: The Blenman Inn

• An 1878 historic home on the National Register of Historic Places, the Blenman Inn combines “the amenities of a fine hotel with the ambiance of a historic home”.
• The inn is designed in Art Deco style, with gorgeous interiors full of rich wood and personal touches.
• Rooms are all individually designed and decorated, with period décor and styling.
• The garden terrace and pool are an oasis in the middle of downtown.
• Check prices and availability for The Blenman Inn here

Modern Hotel: AC Hotel Tucson Downtown

• Hip hotel with a sleek, modern design.
• The rooftop pool and bar are a particularly nice touch.
• Very close to many attractions and restaurants.
• Check prices and availability for the AC Hotel Tucson Downtown here

Best Budget Hotel: Hampton Inn Tucson Downtown

• Great inexpensive option in downtown, with standard rooms that are clean and comfortable.
• Lovely rooftop terrace with pools and sun loungers.
• Right next to the beautiful St Augustine Cathedral, and there are views of the cathedral from the hotel and terrace.
• Check prices and availability for the Hampton Inn Tucson Downtown here

3. Where to Stay Near Saguaro East

Saguaro East, or the Rincon Mountain District of Saguaro National Park, is on the east side of Tucson. The area around the park tends to be fairly residential and suburban, and it’s easy to get around. All of the properties are approximately 15 minutes to the Visitor Center – an easy drive.

It’s anywhere from 15-30 minutes to downtown from the properties noted below.

The views in this area are spectacular – as you’re quite close to the tall Rincon Mountains which tower over the valley on the north and east side.

While Saguaro East does have many nice trails, this side of the park is particularly good if you’d rather drive and enjoy beautiful viewpoints instead of doing big hikes.

Finally, the entrance to Saguaro East faces the Tucson Valley, so it’s not quite so remote.

Best Resort for Families: Tanque Verde Guest Ranch

• Tanque Verde Ranch is an all-inclusive historic cattle ranch turned into a resort experience offering exciting activities.
• Horseback riding, archery, mountain biking, UTV rentals, tennis, jeep rides, among many other activities, are available, plus indoor and outdoor pools.
• Rooms are designed and decorated in a traditional southwestern style.
• Just a 13-minute drive to Saguaro East.
• Check prices and availability for the Tanque Verde Guest Ranch here

Best Bed & Breakfast: Cactus Cove

• This small, intimate inn is a perfect spot for couples who want a private and romantic stay.
• A lovely cactus garden surrounds the property, which has great views of the Sonoran desert and mountains.
• A delicious, home-cooked breakfast is provided and is a highlight for most guests.
• Rooms come with a private patio, jacuzzi, and outdoor shower.
• An easy 15-minute drive to the national park.
• Check prices and availability for the Cactus Cove here

Best Budget-Friendly Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton Tucson East

• All rooms at the hotel are spacious suites, and some rooms have enough space for a family of 6
• Very large pool area with lush courtyard
• Free afternoon happy hour
• 17-minute drive to the Saguaro East Visitor Center
• Check prices and availability for the Embassy Suites by Hilton here

The Wrap Up

I really enjoyed Saguaro National Park and there are many great places to stay and recharge so that your trip is memorable, too. Hopefully this post helps you see the pros and cons of the various areas and you can make the choice that best meets your priorities. Have fun exploring!