AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore opens in the heart of the city

AC Hotel by Marriott is the newest hotel to spring up in Phoenix, Arizona. Centrally located in the Biltmore area, the AC Hotel does not feel or act like your typical brand property. The AC Phoenix has a wide-open lobby that flows into the lounge. Two very large window-doors open the inside up to an outdoor patio next to a pool. Artwork, sophisticated lighting and other elements attract your attention in every direction.

The furnishings in the lobby, lounge and rooms are best described as modern minimalistic. The lines are smooth with chic accents throughout. Even the typically mundane aspects of a hotel are thoughtfully highlighted at the AC Phoenix. Take for example the outlets, a black plate frames out the power plugs like modern art. The plugs don’t stack one above the other as is standard, but rather these outlets are flipped, one is upside down to better accommodate today’s tech savvy traveler.

A fascinating concept to the AC is the fact that they don’t have a traditional restaurant on-site, but rather a lounge that serves light bites and cocktails. The idea is to encourage guest to go out and experience local fare, which is the antithesis of most hotels that want to keep you on property to rack up your bill. The space is very comfortable with an array of seating options, which is perfect for a casual business meeting, or a personal interlude.

The light bites and cocktails are quite nice and affordably priced. While most of the menu is sharable small plates, they do have a few large plate entrees, such as the roasted salmon, asparagus  and forbidden rice dish that I tried. Each of the tables even has an ingenious device the size of a hockey puck where you can request your server, or the check.  The AC also offers a light breakfast buffet with a couple of small entrees.

The AC Phoenix is a hotel that likely caters to busy business travelers who need a comfortable place to stay, without all the unnecessary frills. The location is well positioned within one of the major business districts of town. The AC has a large and easy-access parking lot (no pretentious valet service to contend with), which is free of charge.

Unlike most hotels, there is no carpeting in the rooms, but rather an engineered hardwood floor. The bathroom has a lighted mirror, smooth bathroom vanity made of a pure white material similar to Corian with sharp angles, a recessed sink and modern facet. The shower uses the same material, but with a relief that runs the width of the shower to extend the modern flair.

Guests in accommodations facing north are treated to some wonderful views of famed Camelback Mountain. The downside to these view rooms is that the hotel faces a very busy Camelback Road. The rooms appear to be well insulated from guests on both sides and above/below, but not from the windows, which could have used an extra pane of glass to muffle the sound further. Earplugs are available at the lobby.

Overall the AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore is a lovely property and is well suited for both business travelers as well as leisure guests looking for a casual experience in a central part of Phoenix.

If you’ve ever stayed at the AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore, leave a comment below and share your experience.

AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore Information:

Address: 2811 E Camelback Road – Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: (602) 852-6500
Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/phxab-ac-hotel-phoenix-biltmore/
Amenities: Fitness center, meeting space, free wi-fi, pool and pet friendly.
Star level: 3.5-4
Rates: $110-$450 depending on accommodation level and time of year. Summer is much less expensive, on average 50-60% less than winter.