JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

"Stayed here for 5 nights with my family of four over the XMas holidays during Jingle at the JW. The pool area was probably one of the nicest I've ever seen at a Marriott property, nicer than most resorts. Drinks and snacks were on the pricy side, as can be expected. The courts were in excellent shape. There are only 3 tennis courts now and close to 20 pickleball courts, so very much a pickleball resort. Pickleball crowds were loud and fun. We had complimentary continental breakfast each day for two as loyalty members, but at $33 per day extra for each of our kids, or $45 with hot food option, we usually just got them a light breakfast at Starbucks rather than paying that much for them to have a muffin and some fruit. I guess this price seems to be the norm for nicer buffets now. If we didn't get it complimentary we wouldn't have gone at all. The Jingle at the JW features are definitely designed for young children vs teens, so we didn't do much of them. New Years eve had some live music in the lobby bar and a relatively quiet celebration, but that was fine for us. I think the resort fee of $55/day is reasonable (as long as you plan for it), butthe $30/day parking seemed excessive considering all the on-site parking space in the desert. It's not like the resort is downtown or anything. In summary, a very nice resort, we enjoyed our time there (especially at the pool), but like many places in this area, the costs added up quickly."

"Great place for a family vacation!! Emphasis on family! Pros: the pools and water slides are amazing for everyone to enjoy. Being there in December from Philadelphia was great bc we could enjoy the sun and the water. The pina colada I had at the pool was one of the best poolside pina coladas I’ve ever had. The rooms are comfortable and what you’d expect from a JW. The staff are all clearly trained well and were so friendly and attentive. Cons: not many. The only watch out is that this is a huge resort for families with kids. Do not go here on a romantic couples getaway for some time away from the kids- you won’t get the break bc there are kids everywhere. Not in a bad way! But if you want that couples quiet experience, go to one of the boutique spots in paradise valley."

"Fantastic 5 night stay right before Thanksgiving. Room was spacious and comfortable with 2 balconies (suite)! The pool complex was amazing. Really great service from all at Just a Splash pool bar and Twenty6 lobby lounge. We took the kids to the Jingle holiday festivities and enjoyed it all from ice skating to the warm winter drinks. The entire hotel was decorated for Christmas with music all day long. No complaints and hope to come back again at the same time of year."