While most Tucson luxury properties are set away from town in the foothills, the Arizona Inn sits on a full city block in one of Tucson's' most distinguished residential neighborhoods. Historic homes and bungalows in the area date from 1920 to 1960 and the Arizona Inn fits in with them wonderfully. The area is great for simply strolling among the many flowers, fountains and charming architectural features.

Since the property is very private, being surrounded by high hedges and trees, it's quite easy to miss the place if you aren't careful. It all works to create a charming, relaxing and unpretentious atmosphere.

This is the place luxury hotels imagine themselves to be. The grounds and rooms are charming but not ditzy; elegant but not stuffy; intimate but not claustrophobic. Neither the pictures on the Inn's Web site nor those posted here do the place justice. Everywhere you look, it's a postcard view.

Along with the setting, the service stands out as supreme. Guests come back year after year just to see "Pat" in concierge. Perhaps this is because The Arizona Inn is still family owned and operated after 75 years.

Many guests cite "relaxing" as a top compliment here, so don't go expecting dizzying activities or loud parties. It's also not typically family-friendly (although we did take our twins once and the staff were very cheerful about it. Not-so-much a few of the other guests...). But for a romantic getaway or tranquil retreat, this is a great choice.

Our personal favorite amenity? The tea sandwiches and a carafe of hot cocoa in your room at arrival.

[Photo: MrSweep]

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