Recently, my family packed up our bags and enjoyed a STAYcation at one of our favorite properties in town, The JW Marriot at Desert Ridge. And let’s be honest- we live in a state that offers some of the most beautiful resort options available, why leave town to have a good time? As you likely know, we are big fans of STAYcations and I enjoy promoting the idea of staying nearby and enjoying all of the amenities that AZ has to offer. I also hate airplanes and don’t feel like becoming the next coronavirus victim so staycations it is.
So let’s talk about the property. The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is simply stunning and this was actually the first time I have spent the night there (except for a wine fueled girls night more than a decade ago that doesn’t count because I can’t remember it #lifebeforekids) From the second you walk in, you feel like you’re at a desert oasis- because you are. The pool area is incredible with different areas to lounge options including the main pool, lazy river seating, and covered chairs for those that prefer the shade. Although the day we visited was rainy, we delighted in their decadent drinks and poolside food including a fantastic skinny margarita. As I mentioned, you can also jump on a raft and float along the lazy river which is a HIT with kids so no need to worry about lack of fun here. With several different pools to chose from, our personal favorite was the main pool that featured a shallow enough area JZ could stand- a parent’s dream. Now that the weather is warming up, stay tuned- I’ll be sharing a post totally dedicated to the JW Marriot Desert Ridge pool and new luxury cabana suites next month!
Besides the pool, The JW Marriott Desert Ridge offers a fabulous grand entrance, and the rooms are so large and accommodating; once you arrive, there is no reason to leave (unless you are like us and forget your kid’s allergy medicine- but even then, I think they have Benadryl at the on property store!) They have everything you could possibly need, want or desire on site including an incredible spa, a full service Starbucks, a large store and souvenir shop, top notch restaurants, kids activities, golf course and unbelievable views in every direction you look.
We enjoyed dinner at the Meritage Urban Tavern and WHAT. A. TREAT. The shrimp Caesar salad, spinach artichoke dip, scallops, and short rib were to die for. They also have a fantastic kids menu which I appreciate and JZ said the mac and cheese was his favorite. It was fun to sit around a fire pit and enjoy a glass of wine which JZ stared lovingly in to his Nintendo Switch. Hey, you do what you gotta do to enjoy a peaceful night out once in a while- am I right? The next day we hit up the breakfast buffest and wow. From made to order omelets to a beautiful display of fruit and cheese to a breakfast banana split and worlds largest bowl of Lucky Charms…the breakfast was a home run.
After JZ and James left, I got some mom time at the Spa. The Revive Spa on site is the perfect escape from everyday stress and chaos. This is the treatment I got: The Sami Zen. It fuses time-honored traditions and customs of Japanese Zen and Sweden’s native people, the Samers, into a deeply relaxing experience. Choreographed to evocative Sami Jojk music, this one of a kind treatment cleanses, nourishes and energizes one’s body, mind and spirit. Begin with a cleansing chamomile and pumice body scrub, followed by a warm herbal bath in chamomile or Melissa. Then, birch-bud extract, known for its protective properties, is applied to stimulate circulation and detoxify the skin. Enjoy a nourishing face treatment before concluding this experience with a heated bote (crystal concentrated) stone massage that will relieve pan and instill a state of deep calm. Do you feel enlightened and renewed because I know I sure did!
Don’t just take my word for it, the entire property is fantastic and perfect for a family getaway no matter how far you live from Phoenix. Enjoy a few photos from our amazing 24 hours away and trust me you, too, will want to stay here!