8 Romantic Things to Do at The Buttes Resort in Tempe, AZ
What is the best hotel for a romantic getaway in Tempe? The Buttes Marriott Resort stands out as one of the city’s few true 4-star hotel properties—and it’s easily the most romantic! My husband and I recently celebrated our wedding anniversary here and enjoyed a relaxing grown-up getaway. Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe offers a laid-back, elegant escape. Couples enjoy panoramic views, expansive pools, and a full-service spa built into the rocky landscape. It’s far enough from the college-town buzz to feel secluded, yet just a short drive from Tempe’s vibrant downtown. Slip into something more comfortable, because it’s time to explore eight romantic things to do at The Buttes Resort in Tempe!
This website sometimes receives compensation, hosted travel, or products related to blog posts. This article may include affiliate links at no extra cost to consumers. As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.
1. Swim Together in Dreamy Pools
Marriott Resort at The Buttes features two enticing outdoor swimming pools. These are connected by a swim-through passage, which meanders below a footbridge. Cascading waterfalls add to the vibe. But the dramatic desert landscape is what sets the poolscape apart with rugged rock outcroppings, cacti, and shady trees.
The pool area is a welcome oasis in summertime when desert temperatures soar. Pools are heated in winter, too, so couples can take a dip together year-round. Enjoy four hot tubs carved into the mountainside, too.
There’s also a winding water slide on the property. Feel like kids again as you slide (slowly) down and splash into a small pool below.
The Thirsty Cactus Pool Bar & Grill serves snacks, laid-back lunch items, and tempting cocktails. Pull up a barstool, sit at a shaded table, or place orders from your lounge chair from wandering waitstaff.
Feel free to wade into the water with your bevvie in hand. If you two feel like making friends, the pool is the place to do it. Bring pool floats (or snag a few from the nearby Target Store) and chill out in the water while striking up easy chats with fellow sun-seekers.
2. Watch the Sunset at Top of the Rock
This romantic Tempe hotel’s signature restaurant, Top of the Rock, offers sweeping 180-degree views of the Valley of the Sun from its floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s easy to see why couples flock here for sunset dinners and special occasions. My tip: Reserve about 30 minutes before sunset (around 5:30 PM in winter, 7:45 PM in summer) and ask for a window-side table to enjoy the full golden hour glow.
The menu features hearty steakhouse staples like roasted chicken, pork chops, seared duck, salmon, and a variety of steak cuts cooked to order. My husband, Phil’s Miso Glazed Sea Bass was served atop a mountain of mashed potatoes and accompanied by asparagus and a surprisingly sweet citrus beurre blanc. My Jumbo Scallops and Prawns included just two of each, but they were served with a generous portion of rich and cheesy risotto.
The complimentary rosemary bread was a standout — soft, savory, and irresistible, even for a gluten-sensitive eater like me. One of our desserts, the Lemon Tarte, also impressed us with its flaky crust, tangy filling, and a cloud of meringue on top.
3. Relax at Narande Spa
The Japanese-inspired Narande Spa offers dreamy spa treatments sure to help any pair unwind. There is a Couples Massage with a private, peaceful space to relax side-by-side. I got the Hot Rock Massage, which seemed an appropriate choice for a resort literally built into the rocky landscape. (It was pure heaven!) Facials, wraps, scrubs, manicures, and pedicures are also available.
4. Dine at On the Rocks Lounge
The Top of the Rock gets all the glory, but the views are also stunning from On the Rocks Lounge, if not as expansive. The food and atmosphere are more easygoing and upbeat, with friendly and enthusiastic wait staff and quicker service. The chef even brought us a complimentary slice of decadent chocolate cake when he found out we were celebrating our anniversary.
Some of the upscale entrées from the Top of the Rock menu are available, or stick to more casual fare like burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Shrimp tacos with an Asian flair are a favorite. Order shareable appetizers like the Chef’s Charcuterie or Huevos Rancheros Deviled Eggs, too.
5. Take a Stroll Along Desert Trails
From the property, walk along a short, scenic trail to the top of a desert butte for even more views of the Valley of the Sun. It’s especially romantic just as the sun sets and the landscape takes on a sunny glow dotted with twinkling city lights. Look for Tempe Diablo Stadium, Downtown Tempe, Tempe Town Lake, South Mountain, and Papago Park.
Viewable from many spots at The Buttes Resort is a small mountain with an American flag perched at the top. This is Hayden Butte, also known as “A Mountain” for its huge letter “A” on one side, representing Arizona State University (my alma mater). It’s a popular spot for a short but steep hike among students, locals, and visitors. Drive about five minutes from the hotel to reach the trailhead.
6. Eat Brunch by a Waterfall
Breakfast at the Market Café is a tasty way to start your day during a romantic getaway at The Buttes Resort in Tempe. The indoor waterfall and koi pond give it a peaceful, Zen vibe. Meanwhile, views from the windows offer a great view of the resort and the surrounding desert landscape. Opt for the buffet or order from an à la carte menu, with dishes such as eggs Benedict, their Arizona Breakfast Burrito, and lighter options like a yogurt parfait with housemade granola.
If you want a quick bite and gourmet coffee drinks instead, Rooted Grounds Coffee Shop is just outside the restaurant entrance. Go here for pastries, lattes, teas, and the like.
7. Cozy Up in a Comfy Room
Cozy up in comfort at The Buttes Resort. All 353 rooms were fully renovated in early 2025, with a fresh, modern design with desert-inspired textures and imagery. Be sure to book a room with a patio to soak up more incredible views.
The ambiance is quiet and relaxed, with comfy beds, big marble bathrooms, and just enough space to feel like a retreat without being over the top. Every room comes with a coffee maker for a perk-me-up and a mini fridge for storing snacks and drinks, like a celebratory bottle of bubbly.
8. Strike a Pose for a Romantic Souvenir
With innovative architecture built into the mountains, The Buttes in Tempe is a perfect spot to snap images of your sweetheart. Or, ask fellow guests or staff to take your picture together. The hotel’s arched steel bridge creates a striking backdrop for capturing a photo to commemorate your romantic Tempe escape.
Book Your Stay at The Buttes Resort
The views and incredible architecture built right into the mountains really blew Phil and me away at The Buttes. Add to that dreamy swimming pools, comfy accommodations, and a variety of dining options for a memorable couples getaway!
Ready to get away from it all at the most romantic hotel in Tempe? Read more reviews and book your stay at Phoenix Marriott Resort Tempe at The Buttes via Booking.com now!
Romantic Things to Do in Arizona
Couples dreaming of a spa vacation will love this list of the best spa resorts in Scottsdale and Phoenix.
For a serene desert setting, immersive wellness, and programming that fosters deep connection for couples, consider a Miraval vacation in Tucson.
Arizona’s most popular ski resort offers plenty for couples to do off-season. See what I mean with these Snowbowl summer activities.
Nature lovers will appreciate these outdoor activities in Scottsdale, Tempe’s scenic and upscale neighbor.
More Hotels That Couples Love
Couples seeking luxury, delicious cuisine, and art-filled beauty will love The Umstead Hotel near Raleigh in North Carolina.
Go to the adult-only Casa Velas Resort for lush grounds and tranquil pools just minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s rockin’ nightclubs.
Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge boasts incredible views of the Alaska Mountain Range, an awe-inspiring lobby, and a gorgeous setting amid nature for ages 12+.
In darling Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, the romantic Hofsas House Hotel greets guests with a sweet pink exterior surrounded by billowing hydrangeas.
Save These Romantic Things to Do at The Buttes
Be sure to keep these tips for planning a romantic getaway at The Buttes Resort in Tempe. Simply pin the image above to your Pinterest account. I hope you’ll follow Colleen Travels Between on Pinterest while you’re at it!
If you were planning a couple’s escape to The Buttes, what would be your must-do activity? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
A Note from Colleen: Marriott The Buttes hosted our weekend resort stay, my spa treatment, and some of our meals. I did not receive any monetary compensation related to this blog post.
That desert landscape paired with a cosy spa and sunrise views? Literal magic. I love how you captured the vibe of slowing down and really soaking it all in.
Thanks, Sonia! I hope you get a chance to stay at The Buttes someday!
I would LOVE a getaway to Buttes with my husband. It looks so beautiful on the inside and the outside!
Beth – The views are amazing but those recent renovations really do impress!
Definitely booking this on our next trip to Tempe AZ. The food looks amazing, the pool very inviting and the rooms luxurious.
Karletta – The Buttes really is the best choice for a luxury resort in Tempe!