Recently, I had a chance to check out the Southwest’s first Canopy by Hilton in the heart of downtown Tempe. One might be skeptical about venturing out of their home right now but guess what? The Canopy did an incredible job of taking every safety precaution in the book to make me feel welcome and safe in the contemporary super trendy hotel. They even have a partnership with Lysol if you’re worried about germs and when I arrived to my room, there was a Lysol seal on the room ensuring everything had been sanitized and ready for my arrival.
Call me crazy or just plain old at the ripe age of 37, but it’s been a few years since I’ve ventured down to the corner of Mill and University. James and I spent a good amount of time hanging out at the roof top pool at The Canopy reminiscing about the boozy nights we both experienced while attending ASU. However, this visit to Tempe felt incredibly nostalgic and grown up with the upscale decor and gourmet cuisine. Don’t get me wrong, the long island iced teas at The Cue Club were responsible for many good memories while at ASU (or lack there of…but that’s a different story) I’m all about comfy beds, cozy robes, great views, and a foodie paradise when I’m leaving the Scottsdale bubble these days.
The Canopy by Hilton in Tempe offers guests a local experience with a boutique feel, all while being in walking distance to the vibrant, dynamic energy that is Tempe. By the way, the modern interiors, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, lush greenery, sleek marble countertops and exclusive, curated pieces from local artists are a nice touch, not to mention great lighting- a blogger’s best friend. The hotel has 198-rooms and suites, along with approximately 5,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space plus a super cool pool, bar and on-site restaurant, Alter Ego.
So lets talk about the food. Alter Ego, the hotel’s signature restaurant located on the ground floor, serves up elevated fusion cuisine made with fresh locally and regionally sourced ingredients. My favorite dishes were the Queen Creek Olive Oil mill ice cream (this was a fun starter to the meal!), spicy Katsu chicken served on a whole grain medley, Roasted Calabrian Shrimp smothered in ajo butter and grilled lemon served with grilled Noble Bread, and Steak with the best roasted potatoes I’ve ever had thanks to the chipotle aioli and chimichurri sauce. When we moved up to the rooftop for cocktails and dessert, the Chocolate Tres Leches Cake with house-made gelato is a MUST.
Are you drooling yet? I am!
Alibi, the full-service rooftop pool and bar set atop the hotel’s 14th floor, is a scenic retreat for weekenders and locals alike looking to relax, cut loose and cool down while lounging by the pool with music in ear and a cocktail in hand. They serve tapas and cocktails and you can choose to lounge pool side or in a chic cabana.
Moving on to my next favorite thing besides food….sleep! The hotel’s guest rooms embrace an eclectic, Mid-Century modern style with a tribal-inspired flair. Besides being totally comfortable and having amazing lighting, the rooms embrace the Tempe vibe with local artist’s touches throughout the property.
Centrally located, and just 5 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport, Canopy by Hilton is a must visit for both locals and AZ visitors looking to be in the heart of the city.
For more information about Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, visit TempeDowntown.CanopybyHilton.com. To book a reservation at Alter Ego, visit AlterEgoTempe.com and learn more about Alibi at AlibiTempe.com.