With one of the Seven Wonders of the World in close proximity, you’d be forgiven for overlooking the delights of some of the best places to stay in Arizona. And with the state capital of Phoenix and its neighbouring Scottsdale, you’ll be spoilt for culture, history and entertainment. The pleasant neighbourhoods of these two titans of Arizona are just a couple of hours away from the Grand Canyon by car, and make for great bases to explore the other forests and parks, such as the Tonto National Forest, the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and the Kaibab National Forest.

Just as spectacular as all of those parks is our range of stunning Plum Guide homes spread out across Phoenix and Scottsdale, so you’re in for a treat. While staying here, you’ll learn about the Mexican influence and rich tapestry of Native American history and culture, while also embarking on stunning nature trails that wind their way through otherworldly parks. Forget the city life back home and enjoy the serene desert terrain of Arizona.

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If you’re in the mood for some Phoenix Nights (this is a reference to a British sitcom that you're free to ignore), then we’ve got the place for you. An oasis in the Sonoran Desert, the boiling summer destination is packed with some of the glitziest and tallest skyscrapers in the state. Get some relief from the heat in the Papago Park and spend the afternoon in the Phoenix Zoo, making jokes about how your kids belong there. The park and zoo lie in the Camelback East district, which is an affluent and quiet area with a range of our Plum Guide homes. Upscale resorts and hotels lie between the Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain, making for dizzying views of the rocky terrain. Enjoy the delectable French cuisine at Vincent on Camelback and admire the mountain vistas from the Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain.

Step inside (well, virtually anyway) this majestic home in Camelback East.

Find places to stay in and around Camelback East.

You may prefer to stay by the picturesque waterfront in the charming city of Scottsdale. The Arizona Canal runs through the heart of this district, adorned by shops, restaurants and the Stetson Plaza Shopping Center. Wander between the swaying palm trees and stop for a picnic by the water. After a day of exploring the Grand Canyon (or simply shopping and relaxing), unwind with a meal in a classy joint, such as the Café Monarch, the Mastro’s City Hall and Sel.

Then head back to a home just like this one.

Stay at one of our deluxe homes in this lively area.

Draping the western side of Scottsdale is a spectacular range of art galleries showcasing some of the best in local and international works. Get a glimpse into the local culture by embarking on one of the Scottsdale Art Walk events that take place on Thursday evenings. These comprise a guided night tour of the galleries, making for an ideal way of understanding the city’s creativity and traditions. Or, at least, pretending you know something about art. And, being à la mode (as we like to say we are), Plum Guide has all manner of trendy homes right in this artistic neighbourhood.

Appreciate the beautiful features of this home.

Stay in one of our trendy Scottsdale homes.

This is the greenest part of the city, where you can keep active and breathe in the fresh air. It's certainly one of the best places to stay in Arizona if you're a golfer. Play a few rounds on the picturesque courses of the Continental Golf Club or the Coronado Golf Course, or get your racquet on (we’ve coined a new expression and we’re proud of it) at the Indian School Park & Tennis Center. Of course, there’s no lack of Plum Guide homes in the area, and most of them have pools too. Head out for an evening meal at the Starlite BBQ or the Frashers Tavern.

While in these parts, stay in this delightful home.

Check out our homes with pools in Arizona.

While we don’t necessarily have Plum Guide homes directly in the gorge of the Grand Canyon, we couldn’t very well leave it off the list. There is camping available in the Indian Garden Campground and the Bright Angel Campground among others. Just make sure not to sleep too close to the edge of a cliff: it’s a long way down. Meander up and down the nature trails of the secluded North Rim and join a tour guide group in the livelier South Rim. You can also get around by horse or shuttle, depending on how modern or traditional you’re feeling on that particular day.

Back in your Scottsdale base, lodge in this Plum Guide home.

Peruse our places to stay in Arizona.

• The top things to do in Scottsdale

• 12 of our favourite homes in California

• Places to stay in California

• An expert travel guide to California

• An Expert Travel Guide to Arizona