arizona inn or leo kent

Question

Trying to decide ona dec wkend stay... which hotel is better? Thanks

Answer

Choosing between the and the for a December weekend stay in Tucson can come down to what kind of experience you’re seeking. Both have strong points and a few trade-offs, so I’ll compare them in detail to help you decide.

Arizona Inn – Highlights & Considerations

Historic boutique resort on a lush 14-acre garden property, with a very refined, relaxed atmosphere.
Rated very highly by guests for service, comfort, and ambiance. For example, a guest review called it “one of the finest mid-town resorts in the world.”
Offers amenities like afternoon tea in the library, a nice pool, tennis courts, and a feeling of a quiet escape.
Located in a mid-town quieter neighborhood (2200 E Elm St) which is convenient but a little more “suburban/residential” compared to downtown.
Because it is historic and boutique, some rooms/buildings may feel more classic rather than ultra‐modern; there are a few comments about some furnishings being a bit dated.

The Leo Kent Hotel – Highlights & Considerations

A modern downtown hotel under the Marriott Tribute Portfolio banner, with a strong location in the heart of Tucson (1 S Church Ave) close to restaurants, cultural venues and nightlife.
Guests appreciate the attentive service and recently renovated rooms with good amenities (e.g., strong water pressure in showers).
Because it is downtown, you’re closer to the action—coffee shops, museums, bars—but you may experience more city noise, especially on busy nights. For example, one guest noted “it was so loud … we kept waking up to cars reving their engines racing through downtown”.
Rooms may be slightly smaller than those in a sprawling resort; some parking/garage navigation issues and noise are mentioned.

Which is “better” depends on your preferences:

If you’re looking for a tranquil, upscale, “resort feel” weekend where you unwind, roam beautiful grounds, enjoy a pool, tennis, and slow morning coffee in a garden setting—Arizona Inn is a standout choice.
If you prefer being in the midst of downtown Tucson’s energy—walking to cafés, bars, culture, easy access to restaurants, nightlife—and you don’t mind some urban hustle and perhaps slightly smaller rooms—The Leo Kent is a strong pick.

Some additional decision-factors for your December stay:

Weather: December in Tucson is mild—both locations will be comfortable. The garden grounds at Arizona Inn may feel especially charming in cooler but sunny weather.
Noise/ambience: If you prefer quiet evenings and relaxing grounds, Arizona Inn likely wins. If you thrive on city nightlife and want to walk to lots of places, Leo Kent has that advantage.
Room size & comfort: For a weekend stay with one partner or couple, both work well; but if you want more spacious, luxurious lodging, the resort layout at Arizona Inn might feel more generous.
Access to activities: If you plan to spend your days exploring Tucson’s culture, downtown museums and cafés, Leo Kent’s location gives you a walkable base. If you plan to drive out for hiking/trails and want a quiet home base, Arizona Inn offers that serenity.

My recommendation: For a December weekend where you probably want to unwind, enjoy a nice stay, perhaps have a cozy evening and a good coffee/breakfast and not feel too busy, I’d lean Arizona Inn—it offers a bit more “retreat” feel and charm. But if your weekend agenda involves exploring downtown Tucson’s coffee, restaurants, and nightlife, then The Leo Kent Hotel is a very strong choice.

If you like, I can check current December rates and availability for both hotels (for your specific weekend dates) and highlight which one gives better value right now. Would you like me to do that?