You're heading to the corner of Loop 101 and McKellips Road for some blackjack or maybe a show. Great. But here is the thing that catches almost everyone off guard: Casino Arizona does not have an on-site hotel. If you show up thinking you’ll just stumble upstairs to your room after a late-night heater at the poker tables, you’re going to be disappointed. You'll be standing in the parking lot staring at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community land, wondering where the beds are.
Honestly, it’s a bit of a quirk. Its sister property, Talking Stick Resort, is the one with the massive tower and the 4-star luxury vibes. But Casino Arizona—the one closer to Tempe and Mesa—is purely for gaming and entertainment. Because of that, finding hotels near Casino Arizona requires a little bit of strategy.
Do you want the "official" experience a few miles north? Or do you want a cheap Uber ride from a spot in Scottsdale or Tempe? Let’s break down what actually makes sense for your stay in early 2026.
The Talking Stick Connection: The "Official" Choice
Since Casino Arizona doesn't have its own rooms, they basically point everyone toward Talking Stick Resort. It is about a 10-minute drive north up the 101.
Is it convenient? Yes. Is it cheap? Rarely.
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If you stay here, you’re getting the full-blown resort experience. Think 14 floors, mountain views of Camelback, and three different pools. It is the kind of place where you can grab a steak at Orange Sky on the 15th floor and then take a shuttle or a quick drive down to the other casino.
But if you’re looking to save your bankroll for the actual slots, there are better ways to do this.
Where to Stay if You Actually Want to Walk (Sorta)
You can’t really "walk" to Casino Arizona. The area is a sprawling desert landscape intersected by massive freeways. However, some spots are so close that the Uber fare is basically the minimum.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Phoenix - Tempe
This is arguably the most popular choice for people visiting the casino. It’s sitting right there on Scottsdale Road, barely two miles away.
- The Vibe: It’s a Holiday Inn. You know what you’re getting. Clean, predictable, and they have that pancake machine that everyone loves.
- The Catch: Noise. Reviewers in late 2025 and early 2026 have been pretty vocal about the freeway sounds. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room that doesn't face the 101.
- The Price: Usually fluctuates around $150, but during spring training in March, expect that to double.
Courtyard by Marriott Scottsdale Salt River
This one is a hidden gem for people who want something slightly nicer than a budget motel but don't want to pay Talking Stick prices.
It’s tucked away on North Pima Road. It feels a bit more "Scottsdale" than the Tempe options. The pool area is actually really nice—they’ve got a fire pit and a bistro that serves decent breakfast (though it’s not free, which kinda sucks).
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One thing to watch out for: they often host youth sports teams. If you’re there on a weekend when a soccer tournament is in town, the lobby might be a literal zoo.
Budget Hacks: Tempe Oasis and Scottsdale Parkview
Sometimes you just need a place to crash. You don’t need a spa. You don't need a gym you'll never use.
Tempe Oasis is a weirdly great value. It’s about 2.4 miles from the casino. The rooms are massive—many have full kitchens and even a washer/dryer. In 2025, guests were reporting rates as low as $100 a night. If you’re staying for a week to play in a poker tournament, this is the move.
Then there is Scottsdale Parkview Resort.
It’s on McDowell Road. It’s a 3-star property that feels a bit like a time capsule, but it’s clean. They have jetted tubs in some rooms for just a few bucks more. Honestly, for $106 a night (average rate), it’s hard to complain. Just don't try to pay with cash; they are strictly card-only.
Why the Location Matters (The 101 Trap)
When you're looking for hotels near Casino Arizona, the map can be deceiving. You might see a hotel that looks "right across the street."
Do not be fooled. That "street" is often a six-lane highway or a piece of tribal land with no pedestrian access. You are going to be driving or ride-sharing.
If you choose a hotel in Old Town Scottsdale, you’re about 5 miles away. It’s a straight shot down Scottsdale Road. You get the benefit of being near the bars and the high-end shopping at Fashion Square, but you'll pay a "Scottsdale tax" on the room rate.
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On the flip side, staying in Mesa (near the Sheraton Mesa at Wrigleyville West) puts you about 1.6 miles away. This area has exploded recently because of the Cubs' spring training facility. It’s modern, there are plenty of fast-casual food options nearby, and it’s generally quieter than the Tempe side.
Real Talk: The Noise and Traffic Factor
Arizona traffic in 2026 isn't getting any better. If you’re staying at any of the hotels along the 101 corridor (like the Fairfield Inn or the Hyatt Place options), you’re dealing with the "Sound of Scottsdale"—the constant hum of tires on asphalt.
Most of these hotels were built in the late 90s or early 2000s and have been "refreshed." A "refresh" usually means new carpet and a 55-inch TV, but it doesn't always mean better soundproofing.
Expert Tip: If you book at the Hyatt Place Tempe/Phoenix/University, you’re about 3 miles out. It’s a newer build and tends to have better windows. Plus, you’re closer to the ASU vibe if you want to grab a drink somewhere that isn't a casino bar.
Making the Final Call
Deciding where to stay basically comes down to your "Gambler Type."
- The High Roller: Stay at Talking Stick Resort. You get the shuttle, the luxury, and the proximity.
- The Practical Traveler: Book the Courtyard Scottsdale Salt River. It’s the best balance of "nice" and "close."
- The Budget Grinder: Look at Tempe Oasis or Scottsdale Parkview. Use the money you saved for an extra buy-in at the poker table.
Before you click "book," double-check the parking fees. A lot of these "suburban" hotels have started charging $5 to $15 a night for parking, which feels like a total cash grab, but it’s the reality now.
Your Next Steps
Check the current rates for the Courtyard Scottsdale Salt River first—it often has the best cancellation policy if your plans change. If you're traveling during a major event like the Waste Management Phoenix Open or Spring Training, book your room at least three months in advance. Prices in this specific pocket of the Valley can triple overnight when the crowds arrive.
Be sure to call the front desk directly if you need a room away from the freeway side; the online booking systems rarely let you specify that, and your ears will thank you later.