3 Palms Hotel Scottsdale

The 130-room, family-friendly 3 Palms fills to near capacity year round, which is saying something in this land of 110-degree summers. The rates are very attractive, especially in summer, but the amenities and customer service do their share to pull people back. Wi-Fi and parking are free, the pool is inviting and spacious, and the staff is cheerful and attentive. Add the fact that it's only a five-minute drive from downtown Scottsdale, and it’s easy to see why the 3 Palms is so popular for all sorts of guests: families, couples, friend groups, and independent travelers.

The 3 Palms is two miles from Old Town Scottsdale in a business district on the busy artery of McDowell Road. El Dorado Park, an extensive city park with walkways, Frisbee golf course, skate park, and lakes, is across the street. - Six-minute drive to Old Town Scottsdale

• Seven-minute drive to Scottsdale Stadium (home to Giants' spring training baseball games)
• 10-minute drive to the Scottsdale Center for the Arts
• 12-minute drive to Fashion Square shopping mall
• 13-minute drive to Scottsdale Waterfront
• 18-minute drive to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
• 22-minute drive to Echo Canyon, a popular hiking trail

The rooms here aren't luxurious, but they are decorated with granite surfaces, dark wood furniture, and a largely gray color scheme with bursts of orange and purple. Beds are a cut above in terms of comfort, with pillow-topped mattresses and down comforters. All rooms have mini-fridges, microwaves, and Mr. Coffee machines, making it possible to save money on food and coffee. In addition to DVD players and premium cable (including HBO), the 42-inch flat-screen HDTVs come with surround sound. Most of the small bathrooms have shower/tub combos, and some have walk-in showers. All bathrooms have full-length mirrors and hairdryers.Deluxe Spa Rooms come with king beds and jetted Jacuzzi tubs for two. Spa treatments can be arranged in these rooms. Each room has its own air-conditioning unit, as well as a digital sage, and ironing equipment. Wi-Fi is free in the rooms. Wheelchair-accessible units are available.

3 Palms' large, heated pool is an interesting and attractive geometric shape, though its jagged perimeter might impede lap swimmers. An enormous hot tub is off to one side. All around are orange lounge chairs, some under orange umbrellas. A cooling mist spouts from the orange awning of the pool bar and the edge of a raised sun deck, where shaded tables and chairs can be found.There is a small fitness center equipped with cardio machines, a multi-trainer, and a set of free weights, plus a scale. An indoor lounge area -- open 24 hours -- features two computers and a printer; a kitchenette with filtered water, coffee, and a microwave; and a flat-screen TV and a couch. More computers can be found in the lobby. 3 Palms guests receive a discount at the adjacent Sevens Bistro, and room service is available until late at night.Other conveniences include coin-operated washing machines and dryers, a 24-hour front desk staff, and free self-parking. Pets up to 60 pounds are allowed, for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout.