What to expect: Sophisticated travelers seeking charm, character, and a convenient location near the university favor this resort. The landscaping, exteriors, and many of the furnishings hearken back to the 1930s. Stars from Hollywood’s golden era, such as Bette Davis, Gary Cooper, Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, and John Wayne, stayed here.

Amenity highlights: From June through September, the resort hosts a daily ice-cream social by the 60-foot outdoor pool. A complimentary high tea is served in the handsomely appointed library October through April, except during some holidays. The restaurant showcases creative cuisine with Southwestern and international accents.

Insider tip: The University of Arizona Museum of Art houses more than 4,500 paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings dating from the sixth century B.C. to the present. The collections strongly emphasize the artistic traditions of Europe and the United States but also include works from Asia, Latin America, and elsewhere. Admission is free, and other campus museums are nearby.