Many visitors inquire about the city's unusual name — Show Low. As legend has it, after a marathon poker game between two early settlers, Corydon E. Cooley and Marion Clark, the two agreed to let a game of cards decide who was to get the 100,000-acre ranch. According to the story, Clark said, “If you can show low, you win.” Cooley then turned up the deuce of clubs and announced, “Show low it is.” With this, the city got its name and the main street is called “Deuce of Clubs” in remembrance of that famous card game.
Today, Show Low is the largest and one of the fastest-growing cities in northeastern Arizona, known as “The Gateway to Arizona's White Mountains” at a cool 6,400 feet elevation.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Show Low, AZ?
If what you're looking for is clear weather, the best time to visit Show Low, Arizona, would be in April, May, or June. These are the months with the lowest chances of significant precipitation and also the lowest average humidity. This will allow you to ideally explore the outdoors. You can enjoy a nice day at the lake or the park. These summer months offer you the chance to experience Show Low's many activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and golf. You can do all of these things away from the blistering heat that is so common in the rest of Arizona.
However, since this is the best time to visit, the prices for hotels and events tend to be at their peak during these months. This is also when the tourist spots and recreation areas are the most crowded. It may make sense to consider if this is the best time of year for you to come if your purpose of visiting is simply to unwind.
If you do plan on visiting during the peak season, you luckily have the option to make your hotel reservations early so you can catch the best possible deals on hotel rooms. Another great time of year to visit Show Low is between October and November. These two months have a relatively low average monthly rainfall, although these months may feel a bit more humid than in April, May or June. However, on the bright side, there will be fewer tourists and some better deals on hotel rooms.
If fun in the snow is what you're looking for, you could also take some time between December and January. Although there isn't as much snow in Show Low during this time of year as opposed to some other areas of Arizona, the higher altitude in Show Low does offer much cooler weather, and you can head up into the mountain peaks to do some skiing.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Show Low, AZ:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Show Low, AZ. Analyze these charts to evaluate the best months to book in Show Low for your upcoming travels.
What Are Some of the Best Hotels Near Show Low, AZ?
If you have the extra money to splurge on your visit, some upscale hotels may be the more attractive option for you. Show Low has a number of luxury hotel options to choose from.
Hampton Inn & Suites Show Low Pinetop is a family-friendly hotel that offers amenities such as a flat-screen television, hair dryers, bathtubs, and air conditioning. You can also try your luck at their casino or pump some iron in their fitness center. If relaxing is more your thing, you can pay a visit to their spa instead. For group outings, the hotel offers conference spaces for your meetings and activities.
Surrounded by the majesty of tall pines, Best Western Paint Pony Lodge offers high-standard amenities that bring all the comforts of your home to Show Low. Ideally located to provide a peaceful and comforting vacation, the hotel offers complimentary toiletries and hair dryers in their private bathrooms featuring shower-tub combinations. To complete the coziness, the hotel also has coffee and tea makers.
What Are Some of the Budget Hotels Near Show Low, AZ?
3 Star Average Prices: $142.64
While Show Low is a popular tourist destination, especially for people who want to get closer to nature, there are various hotel options to choose from — ones which won't require you to break the bank in order to enjoy your stay.
Located along the famous street of Deuce of Clubs, Quality Inn Show Low offers close proximity to Show Low Museum and Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, which are among the top places to visit in Show Low. The motel offers complimentary Wi-Fi access, tour/ticket assistance, and continental breakfast, as well as some amenities that include laundry facilities, parking, and air-conditioned guest rooms.
If convenience is more your priority, KC Motel is the place to stay. There are shopping centers, restaurants, and bars all within walking distance. The KC Motel also offers complimentary Wi-Fi access, as well as cable programming for entertainment. Guests can also arrange to bring pets to the motel, provided they have contacted the property ahead of time. A pet fee of $10 per pet per day and surcharges do apply.
Last but not least, Super 8 Show Low is the ideal family hotel. It's pet-friendly and ideally located near Sunrise Park Resort. For those into skiing and snowboarding, the Super 8 is close to the slopes. The hotel has an indoor heated pool, hot tub, and is near various outdoor activities such as golfing, horseback riding, and casinos. If you get hungry, you can also grab a bite to eat at the nearby Sonic Drive-In. Feeling like Mexican? Fiesta Mexicana is close by as well and can satisfy those Mexican cravings.
2 Star Average Prices: $96.46
Which Hotels in Show Low, AZ Offer the Best Discounts?
If you're looking to save more money on top of already affordable hotel options, you can search for hotels that offer discounts for AAA members. Among these hotels is the aforementioned Best Western Paint Pony Lodge. Located along Deuce of Clubs, the Best Western rooms are air-conditioned and feature refrigerators and microwaves. They also have phones with free local calls and amenities such as an indoor swimming pool.
What Are Some of the Best Value Options in Show Low, AZ?
For the best value for money, you may want to consider looking into hotels that offer the amenities you need. You'll find that there are plenty of options and some of them even offer services for free.
One option with great value is the Days Inn by Wyndham Show Low which provides free Wi-Fi access and parking to their customers, as well as a complimentary round-trip airport shuttle available 24 hours. The hotel offers a great view of the scenic Arizona countryside. Near Bison Golf and Country Club, the hotel offers recreational activities. Days Inn makes you feel at home and include private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations. The air-conditioned rooms feature refrigerators and microwaves. You can also quench your thirst or enjoy a nice bowl of soup at the hotel's very own restaurant, the Show Low Cafe.
What Should Be Explored in Show Low, AZ?
Luckily, most hotels in Show Low are located strategically near the best places to visit. Located in Sitgreaves National Forest, Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area is popular among visitors who want to relax among the tall pine trees or hike along the lake. Other recreational activities include picnicking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing, which are sure to bring out the nature lover in anyone.
For a lovely and peaceful stroll with your loved ones, Show Low City Park features walking trails, a separate dog park, multiple ball fields, a basketball court, tennis courts, disc golf, racquetball courts, and a kiddie park.
For the history buffs at heart, the Show Low Museum is a great stop to learn the history behind the city you are visiting. With excellent and friendly staff, the museum is a great option for laid-back exploration featuring 17 rooms of exhibits inside.
For the more adventurous, Salt River Canyon is popular for whitewater rafting. Also, situated along the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, Show Low is quite popular among hikers and campers. This is because it offers a very interesting variety of plant, animal, and bird life. This is due to Show Low's unique location split between mountain and desert ecosystems. There are few other places in the world where you will find such a unique combination.
There is much of Show Low, Arizona, you will want to explore. Remember, a visit full of amazing things to do does not necessarily have to break the bank. Whether you're looking for a luxury place near the outdoor activities to immerse yourself in nature or you are looking for a great value option nearer the airport for a short stay, there is surely a hotel that will meet your needs and satisfy your wants. No matter what you pack into your schedule while visiting, you will always find yourself among beautiful scenery in Show Low, Arizona.
FAQs about hotels in Show Low
How much does a cheap hotel in Show Low cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Show Low can be as cheap as $96.46 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Show Low cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Show Low has been $142.64 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city: Show Low, AZ
Below are reviews of the city of Show Low, AZ from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Will Def Be Back!"
Score
5.0 / 5
First time in Show-Low. I will definitely be back!
John D., from 10-Nov-2024
"Will Def Be Back!"
Score
4.0 / 5
First time in Show-Low. I will definitely be back!
John D., from 09-Nov-2024
"Nice Quiet Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice quiet town.
Tracy S., from 03-Nov-2024
"Show Low is a beautiful town!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Show Low is a beautiful town!
Daniel H., from 06-Oct-2024
"Beautiful weather, lots of pine trees and fresh air!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful weather, lots of pine trees and fresh air! 😊
Felipe S., from 25-Sep-2024
"Pine Trees and Fresh Air!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful weather, lots of pine trees and fresh air.. 😊
Felipe S., from 25-Sep-2024
"
The Mexican food at Licano's!
"
Score
5.0 / 5
The Mexican food at Licano's!
Evart B., from 23-Jul-2024
"Bar & Restaurant Options"
Score
5.0 / 5
Bar and restaurant options.
Ian C., from 28-Jun-2024
"The room was clean and comfortable.
"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice little town has history as well as newer amenities clean.
Ellis S., from 27-Apr-2024
"Love Show Low"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love the city of Show Low and I think I would consider living there.
Rodney G., from 19-Oct-2023
"Absolutely Stunning Scenery!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The scenery was absolutely stunning and the weather was so nice!! I liked how easy it was to find my way around the town.
Tatum S., from 26-Sep-2023
"Love Show Low!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love Show Low! It has become our vacation spot!
Robyn R., from 07-Sep-2023
"Quiet & Friendly"
Score
5.0 / 5
Quiet and friendly.
Rhonda D., from 23-Jul-2023
"Beautiful Area!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The natural beauty of the area and the friendliness of the residents. Also the flag display!
Debra H., from 29-May-2023
"Small, quaint, interesting small town!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Small, quaint, interesting small town!
Gregory C., from 06-Nov-2022
"Clean rooms and comfortable beds."
Score
4.0 / 5
We were there for an surgery for my husband so didn't do anything but a recoup for him before I could bring him on home.
Caroline H., from 27-Oct-2022
"Golf Courses"
Score
5.0 / 5
The golf courses!
John C., from 13-Oct-2022
"Small town atmosphere & good restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good restaurants, people very friendly small town atmosphere a plus!
Dennis C., from 12-Oct-2022
"Great Golf Courses!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We always come here for golf. Great golf courses.
Gary W., from 11-Oct-2022
"nice hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very pretty small town
Daniel A., from 19-Jun-2022
"Enjoyed the area and our visit!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Well we loved the the lakes around and places to eat and drink, we also enjoyed the stores and parks, we enjoyed our visit
Margerito A., from 02-Apr-2022
The average traveler rating of the city of Show Low, AZ shown above is
4.6 out of 5 based on 21 reviews