As the largest new hotel to debut in Tempe, Ariz. in nearly four decades, The Westin Tempe is now open in the city’s vibrant downtown district, ushering in a refreshing biophilic energy to the neighborhood along with a new signature restaurant and the Valley’s highest open-air rooftop bar and lounge.
Owned and developed by CAI Investments and managed by Crescent Hotels & Resorts, the full-service hotel boasts 290 spacious guest rooms and suites and approximately 21,000 square feet of exceptional indoor and outdoor event space that strike a balance between Tempe’s unique culture and the brand’s signature Wellness at Westin pillars of well-being, culminating in the quintessential destination for the modern, wellness-focused traveler.
“We are thrilled to be part of the exciting evolution of Downtown Tempe, and to be able to fill the niche in the market for a hotel experience that is unlike anything else in the city,” said Michael George, the founder, president and CEO of Crescent Hotels & Resorts.
With the hotel’s debut comes three distinct, brand-new dining concepts as well. Led by seasoned Valley Chef Alexander Robinson, the signature ground-floor restaurant Terra Tempe Kitchen & Spirits features a healthy cuisine that cleverly combines bold, rustic flavors with locally sourced ingredients that offer an authentic reflection of the Southwest’s rich history, plus an innovative drink program packed with nature-infused craft cocktails, local Arizona brews and an impressive wine list. Subdued lighting, an expansive exhibition kitchen and a prominent liquor tower lend a warm, inviting quality to the space and present an intimate contrast to the adjacent lobby, which is separated by a striking, copper chain “veil” suspended from the ceiling.
Open for lunch and dinner, a few standouts from Terra’s menu include the Cilantro Dusted Chilian Sea Bass, served with arugula, avocado crema, tempura jalapenos and sweet corn pico de gallo; and Terra’s Hot Stone, with cilantro scallion salad, pickled ginger, serrano ponzu and a choice between Wagyu beef or Pacific ahi tuna.
In contrast with its ground-level counterpart, Skysill Rooftop Lounge soars above the city on the hotel’s 18th floor, making it the highest open-air rooftop bar in town. During the day, the chic venue offers a hip, relaxing escape with its rooftop pool, jacuzzi, daybeds and cabanas, and large video screen overlooking the vast metropolitan Phoenix area. As the sun sets over the mountain horizon, it then transitions to a luxurious lounge where all levels of service and experience are elevated. Guests can enjoy a curated wine list as well as a sophisticated twist on classic cocktails including the Arizona Collins, made with aperol, Chareau aloe liquer, Mionetto prosecco and dehydrated grapefruit; and the Cactus Spritz, made with Hanson Meyer lemon vodka, Reàl Blue Agave nectar, fresh lemon juice and Fever-Tree bitter lemon tonic water.
For guests in need of a relaxed spot to catch up on emails, grab a light lunch with a friend, or get a coffee before they head out for the day, the hotel is also home to Cup of Joe Market Café, a quick-service bistro located adjacent to the lobby, open daily from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. offering grab-and-go options and retail merchandise.
Featuring a Sonoran aesthetic that reflects the beauty of the surrounding desert riparian scenery, The Westin Tempe embraces a deep connection to nature through a dynamic architectural language that simultaneously alters the skyline and activates the streetscape. Designed by local firm RSP Architects, the hotel’s interior is embellished with numerous biophilic elements that play off the dramatic juxtaposition of the dry desert against the lush softness found after a summer monsoon, resulting in an engaging atmosphere with a familiar sense of respite.
Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a dynamic lobby that features angular walls inspired by Arizona’s infamous slot canyons, Terrazo floors that form captivating fractal patterns, sculptural concrete forms crafted by local artisan SlabHaus that double as additional seating, a cloud-like art installation elegantly suspended above, and a smoked glass staircase that leads to the second-floor ballroom. The hotel’s guest rooms are accentuated with similar motifs to provide a perfect urban oasis, including an illuminated ceiling feature at the entry that mimics dappled light filtered through a tree canopy, spa-centric bathrooms complete with rain showers and sandstone-inspired, textured walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of the painted desert.
Situated within Tempe’s bustling downtown district and business corridor on the southeast corner of Mill Avenue and Seventh Street, The Westin Tempe is just a few miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and steps away from the city’s best shopping destinations, culinary offerings, entertainment centers and major local landmarks, including the historic Mill Avenue District, Arizona State University, Tempe Town Lake, “A” Mountain (Hayden Butte), and Tempe Beach Park. Travelers will soon also have the option to utilize the brand-new Tempe Streetcar, the first modern streetcar line in the Valley, to easily connect them with major business centers and venues throughout the city upon its completion in late 2021.
“It has been nothing short of incredible to see our vision come to life through the collaborative effort between our team of longtime hospitality professionals and our ingenious local design firm,” said Patti Hunt, general manager of The Westin Tempe. “Together, we’ve created an optimal retreat that truly serves those who are craving a premium hotel experience that empowers them to enhance their well-being while traveling, while still capturing the spirited essence of Tempe. We look forward to becoming a welcoming gathering place for visitors and locals alike.”
For more information about The Westin Tempe and to book a reservation, visit https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/phxwt-the-westin-tempe/.
