The hype
Travelers love the resort feel and pool options but consistently complain about the pervasive cigarette smoke in common areas.
Talking Stick Resort
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a Vegas-style party weekend with a killer pool scene without leaving Arizona.
Why People Love It
- The 'Release' pool parties are legendary and rival Vegas day clubs
- Orange Sky restaurant offers arguably the best sunset dining views in Scottsdale
- West Pool provides a chill, heated alternative when the main pool gets too rowdy
Quick Take: It’s a high-energy casino hotel where you will absolutely smell smoke on your way to the room, but the pool scene makes up for it.
Reviewed by @colleeninvegas: I tried the $20 trick here and while I didn't get a suite, my ground-floor room opened right onto the pool deck! It felt like I had the whole resort to myself. Despite a long check-in, having that patio access was a total game-changer. 10/10 would go back.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Mountain View' rooms often come with a 6 AM wake-up call from the sun due to lack of blackout curtains and 'wicked reflections' from the pool.
- You're here to party at the pool and gamble until 2 AM
- You want a one-stop shop with golf, dining, and entertainment on-site
- You're attending a concert or event at the ballroom or pool stage
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable; rooms are generally tidy upon arrival.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are spacious and clean; grout and drains are usually well-maintained.
- Maintenance: The property is modern (built 2010) and keeps up well, though some hallway carpets show wear from high traffic.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality—clean and crisp, but not ultra-luxury plush.
- Odors & scents: The lobby and casino floor have a heavy cigarette smoke odor that can drift into elevator banks.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thumping bass from 'Release' pool parties (weekends)
- Hallway noise from late-night casino guests
Before you book
Good to know
- The West Pool is open year-round and heated, even when the Main Pool service pauses for winter (Nov-March).
- Resort fee is ~$28.51/night and includes gym access and bottled water.
- Valet parking is free (tips expected), which is rare for Scottsdale.
What to pack
- Sleep mask (no blackout curtains in many rooms)
- Earplugs (essential for weekends)
- Club attire if you plan to hit the rooftop lounge or pool parties
Room Genie
Best picks
- Executive King (North or South ends) for quieter mountain views away from the direct pool noise
- West-facing rooms for sunset views and less morning glare
Rooms to avoid
- East-facing rooms on lower floors (direct line of fire for pool party noise)
- Rooms near the elevator banks (smoke smell is stronger)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor facing West or the North/South ends (Executive King) to avoid the pool party noise and morning sun glare. Please ensure it is as far from the elevators as possible to minimize smoke odor.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, the West Pool is heated and open daily. The Main Pool service pauses in winter (Nov-March), but you can still swim.
Can I avoid the smoke?
Not really. You have to cross the casino floor to reach the guest elevators. The rooms are non-smoking, but the path to them is not.
Is breakfast included?
No. Full breakfast is available for a fee (approx. $10-25/person) at Blue Coyote Café or via room service.
How far is Old Town Scottsdale?
It's about a 10-15 minute drive (Uber/Lyft is easy to get).
Are the pool parties free for guests?
Usually yes, hotel guests get access to the 'Release' pool parties, but cabanas and VIP beds cost extra.
Is there a shuttle?
There is a local trolley, but no dedicated free airport shuttle. You'll need a car or rideshare.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'West Pool' is the secret weapon—it's often empty, heated, and has its own food service even when the main pool is a zoo.
- ✨
Ask for a 'South' facing view to see Camelback Mountain; it's the iconic Scottsdale view.
- ✨
The Cultural Center in the lobby has legitimate Native American art and history exhibits that most guests walk right past.
5 things to know before you go
💡The morning sun reflection off the pool into East-facing rooms is blindingly bright.
💡You can smell the casino smoke inside the elevators even on high floors.
💡The 'Do Not Disturb' policy is strict; if left on for 3 days, security WILL enter your room for a welfare check.
💡Room service sushi is surprisingly decent and available late.
💡The walk from the self-parking garage to the lobby is long and hot in summer—use the free valet.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Talking Stick Resort is located and what's nearby.