The town that would eventually become Buckeye was founded in 1888, after the construction of the Buckeye Canal. The town was originally named Sidney, but because the post office and canal were called “Buckeye,” people began referring to the town itself by the same name. The town's name was officially renamed Buckeye in 1910 — the same year the Arizona Eastern Railroad came to Buckeye. In 1912, a steam rail line connected Buckeye to Phoenix, and a state highway was built through Buckeye in 1915. The city was incorporated in 1929 on 440 acres of land.
Buckeye began to draw more tourists and visitors after its Chamber of Commerce began hosting Helzapoppin Days in 1935. This annual event included a carnival, a rodeo, and a parade as well as street dances and other festivities. Money made from the event was donated to local churches for charity and scholarships. Even famous celebrities like Gene Autry were known to attend the Helzapoppin Days event.
Buckeye makes a great base for exploring Phoenix, but it's not short on attractions itself. The town boasts several well-kept parks and great views of the White Tank Mountains. You can also catch a modern-day rodeo at the Helzapoppin' Pro Rodeo arena or play a round of golf at one of three local golf clubs.
When is the best time to visit Buckeye, AZ?
To see Buckeye at its finest, consider timing your visit to coincide with the Buckeye Days event, which combines the city's former Pioneer Days festival with the Buckeye Senior Pro Rodeo. This event is held on the last weekend of January each year, which falls in the middle of the area's best weather season.
From November through April, while colder locations are dealing with snow and dreary winter landscapes, Buckeye enjoys highs in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Keep in mind, though, that visiting during the peak season often means higher prices. Consider visiting towards the beginning or end of the season, when prices might be a little lower and temperatures a little higher. The shoulder months of May and October may also suit you well. Temperatures during these months tend to stay between 60 and 90 degrees.
Temperatures climb considerably higher during the summer months, with average highs above 100 degrees Fahrenheit and lows that stay in the 60- to 80-degree range. Many hotels offer incredible rates and special packages during summer to entice visitors, so it's a good time to travel to Buckeye on a budget. Outdoor activities will be a lot less pleasant in the desert heat, but it's not a humid heat like you'll find in the South. Late summer brings spectacular lightning storms courtesy of the monsoon season.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Buckeye, AZ:
Buckeye by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Buckeye, AZ. You can use these illustrations to determine the best time to book a room in Buckeye throughout the year.
What are the luxury hotel options in Buckeye, AZ?
4 Star Average Prices: $135.25
If nothing but the best will do, expect to stay about 30 to 40 miles from downtown Buckeye. Topping the list of luxury hotel options in Phoenix are Royal Palms Resort & Spa in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix Cityscape. Both have averaged 4.5 out of 5 stars in guest reviews.
Royal Palms offers all the amenities you would expect at a value hotel, plus an on-site bar and restaurants, a limo/town car service, its own library, a sauna and full-service spa, concierge services, a hair salon, and on-site shopping. The outdoor pool features a poolside bar and cabanas. Guests can also spend some time outdoors in the resort's garden or on the terrace. Kimpton Hotel offers similar amenities, including a poolside bar and cabanas, a rooftop terrace, on-site shopping, concierge services, and two on-site bars/lounges.
You could also consider choosing one of the luxury options in nearby Scottsdale, Arizona, to the east of Phoenix. Embassy Suites by Hilton Scottsdale Resort and The Canyon Suites at the Phoenician Luxury Collection are both world-class hotels that have been given exceptionally high marks from guests.
What are the affordable hotel options in Buckeye, AZ?
3 Star Average Prices: $142.12
You won't find many hotels with a Buckeye address, but since the town is located in the suburbs of Phoenix, there is no shortage of places to stay nearby. The most affordable hotel in Buckeye is the Days Inn Buckeye AZ. Guests here can enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a business center. The hotel does offer connecting and adjoining rooms, subject to availability; guests can contact the hotel after booking to make their request. Children under 18 stay free with a parent or guardian as long as they use the room's existing bedding.
Best Western Phoenix Goodyear Inn is only about 14 miles from downtown Buckeye and has earned great reviews from guests. For a budget-friendly nightly rate, guests get access to fitness facilities, a business center, complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast, and an outdoor pool. There is an ATM at the hotel, as well as one meeting room, conference space, and laundry services. Many rooms have a microwave and refrigerator so that you can reheat leftovers and keep beverages cool.
Travelers will also find great rates at the Super 8 Goodyear / Phoenix Area. This hotel is only about 15 miles from downtown Buckeye and 23 miles from Phoenix International Airport. Guests will enjoy complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi, as well as an outdoor pool. The fitness facilities, business center, and front desk are open 24 hours a day.
