That they took a nondescript, boxy '50s motel and turned it into a desirable place deserves credit at the get-go. It's kind of like W meets Hard Rock -- in the desert. (The hallways are painted purple!) But it's quirky, and the service levels are spotty. I'm guessing that the owners are young. Apparently a number of the rooms have both the air conditioning and, only coincidentally, the hot water reversed. That means you turn your thermostat to "hot" to get cool air; and you turn the shower control to "cold" to get hot water. They've had cable problems (for quite some time, apparently) so there's no movie channels, and there's no pay-per-view. Mostly, take note that there's a gay-hipster-young "scene" at the pool most every night, whether it's happy hour or a private party. It's interesting - for about 15 minutes. The staff seem to be oblivious to the noise in the parking lot, the noise from the restaurant, and the noise at the pool. I'm here on a special rate, so it's hard to complain, but if I'd paid $160+ for this room, I'd be annoyed. This is not a good hotel for families. It is a GREAT hotel for young scenesters who want to stay up late and drink and carry-on. I'd stay here again, I'd just make sure I asked for a quiet corner of the hotel. This place is obviously very desireable to a certain demographic, and I continue to be thankful they've fixed up what was probably only an eyesore -- they get big points for urban renewal!

We booked this hotel based on trip advisor reviews and the hotel website. The owner is a marketing genius! We would admit that the pool and hot tub were very nice, but that is the only thing that makes these outdated motel style rooms bearable. The hotel has tried to put in cool artwork, flat screens and modern furniture, but it really does not make up for the outdated exterior, cinderblock walls, open air rooms which must be very hot in the summer and the need for some serious new carpets. We had a suite and our bathroom was literally too small to turn around in, the cooling system was very loud. We visited the roof top bar which was advertised as the new hip place in Phoenix, there was literally no one there at 10:00 on a Friday night. The hotel is not near anything of interest, and it is about a 20 minute drive to the airport. I have to say that the staff was very nice and helpful, but the most impressive thing about this hotel is how the owner has found a way to market such an outdated property! We live in a city and are used to city life, but my son thought the best way to describe this "boutique" hotel was "sketchy."

This was my first time staying at the Claredon and I was very impressed! I am a Phoenix local, and stayed with a group of girls (we are all 24-26 in age) for an event. The room was spacious and clean and had great decor. The pool area was awesome-it looked very hip with big sun beds and a giant hot tub-really could fit 20 people easily! We had the same server at the pool and the restaurant and she was beyond excellent! All the staff were very friendly and we had a great time. I will definitely stay here again.

I selected this hotel after reading glowing reports on this and other sites. I can't say it was worht the $200+ room multiple sites requested. We stayed for a under $150, including vouchers for breakfast. This price is about what it should be.

Clarendon isn't quite downtown. It is not within walking distance to attractions, shopping, restaurants. If you won't have a car, you may want to stay elsewhere. The hotel boasts a free driver service, but I didn't look into it.

The room we had (king suite) was large, with limited furniture. The floor coverings were noticeably dirty and needed cleaned. Large plasma TV. Bathroom was nice size, but the tub needed resurfaced or replaced. Paint was very scratched, with some weird blue tint. They did not have "extra toiletries" such as toothpaste or shaving creme when we stayed.

They have a nice pool area, including a hot tub the same width as the pool. Very comfy furniture in the pool area. Roof top bar isn't impressive.

Breakfast buffett isn't that great. I wouldn't recommend paying extra for it. FYI -- juice isn't included.

If you need to stay in the downtown Phoenix area, you may want to consider Clarendon. It is a nice break from chains.

Location is not wonderful for tourists. If you are visiting Phoenix area, you may want to stay in Scottsdale or another area where there is more to do in the immediate vacinity.