JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

This 869-room megaresort north of Phoenix with two 18-hole golf courses is so massive that even the street is named after it -- Marriott Drive. It's part of Marriott's JW luxury brand, and mostly lives up to expectations, but prices seem a bit high considering decor is a tad generic and signs of age are starting to show. The resort mostly attracts families who keep busy with an unending list of activities, as well as large conference groups gathering in one of the ballrooms. Some pointers: The higher the room the better the view (think mountain vistas and desert sunsets), and light sleepers should avoid the pool area to avoid late-night revelers and live music. For some peace and quiet, the Revive Spa has 41 treatment rooms and a healthy restaurant. The fitness center is small, but it does come with floor-to-ceiling windows, or guests can make use of the 4.2-mile jogging course around the property perimeter. One of the highlights is the 1,600 foot Lazy River pool, for relaxing inner-tube rides along the beautiful grounds.