First look: Caesars Republic Scottsdale — the iconic brand's first nongaming hotel

12.07.2024 - 21:17 / thepointsguy.com

If you've been to Las Vegas, you probably associate the sound of slot machines with hotels — like the famous Caesars Palace — on the Las Vegas Strip. You likely also know that you might need a compass and a map to find your way out of the maze that's designed to keep you inside gambling at most Las Vegas hotels.

So, you better believe I was curious when Caesars announced it was opening its first nongaming hotel in the U.S. near me in Scottsdale, Arizona. Here are the details from my recent visit.

Travelers can book directly through the hotel's website, and Caesars Rewards members can book exclusive rates at this property (and up to 50 other U.S. properties). Summer rates start from $189 per night.

The property is also in the American Express Travel portal, meaning guests can earn 5 points per dollar spent on bookings when using The Platinum Card® from American Express. Travelers can book using Amex Membership Rewards points as well, with rates starting at 25,000 points per night.

Chase Travel℠ lists the property, too, with bookings starting at $189 per night in summer. Depending on which Chase card you hold, you could apply your annual $50 hotel credit from the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or your annual $300 travel credit from the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

For my stay, I chose to go the Amex Travel route and book through the portal. However, since the hotel is not a member of American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection, my annual $200 hotel benefit did not apply.

The hotel is in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, just north of Macy's at Scottsdale Fashion Square off Goldwater Boulevard. It is 8 miles north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and 9 miles south of Scottsdale Airport (SCF).

Ride-hailing options in the area include Uber, Lyft, taxis and Waymo autonomous vehicles. The hotel can also arrange a car service to bring you to the hotel. If renting a car, the PHX Sky Train now connects the airport terminals to the 24th Street rental car facility.

Overnight valet parking is available at the hotel for $40, and self-parking in the Scottsdale Fashion Square parking garage next door is available for $28 per night. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available.

The spacious, modern lobby is decorated with neutral tones and modern photography. When you walk inside, you'll be greeted by water features, multiple seating areas for drinks or chatting, a fireplace feature and floor-to-ceiling windows, making the space bright and inviting.

The front desk staff warmly greeted me and then provided a quick and efficient check-in experience while relaying information about the hotel.

As I walked to the elevator after checking in, I noticed a hologram following me on the