If you're driving up the I-17 in North Phoenix, you've probably seen the sign for the SpringHill Suites Phoenix Black Canyon Hwy. It sits right there in the thick of the North Phoenix corridor. Most travelers see a Marriott logo and assume they know exactly what they’re getting. But this specific property—officially known as the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Phoenix North—is a bit of a localized enigma. It's nestled in a pocket of the city that is currently undergoing a massive identity shift.
Honestly, the area around 9425 N Black Canyon Hwy used to be defined by the old Metrocenter Mall. For years, that mall was the heart of the community before it hit a rough patch. Now? It’s being razed and reborn into a massive mixed-use development. This means the hotel isn't just a place to sleep; it’s a front-row seat to the literal reconstruction of a Phoenix landmark.
The Reality of the Location at 9425 N Black Canyon Hwy
Let’s talk about the "Black Canyon" part of the name. Locals know the I-17 as the Black Canyon Freeway. Staying here means you are directly on the pulse of the city's main north-south artery. It’s loud. It’s busy. But it’s also incredibly convenient if you need to zip down to Grand Canyon University (about a 10-minute drive) or head north toward Sedona.
You’re literally a three-minute walk from Castles N' Coasters. If you have kids, that’s a huge win. You can hear the screams from the Desert Storm roller coaster if the wind blows the right way.
The hotel is located right next to the new light rail extension. This is a game-changer. For years, this part of the Black Canyon Hwy felt a bit isolated unless you had a car. Now, you’ve got a direct link to downtown Phoenix and the airport without having to navigate the infamous "Suicide Lane" on the I-17.
What the Suites Actually Look Like
These aren't your standard cramped hotel rooms. They are true suites. Basically, every room has a semi-partitioned layout. You get a "living" area with a trundle sofa and a "sleeping" area.
- Space: Most suites are roughly 406 square feet.
- Amenities: A microwave, a mini-fridge, and a wet bar are standard.
- Sleep: They use the standard Marriott premium bedding, which—let's be real—is usually the best part of staying at a Marriott property.
One thing to watch out for: the "2 Queen" rooms often feature full-sized beds rather than true queens. If you're traveling with four adults, it’s going to feel tight. Families with small kids? You’re fine.
Surprising Details About the Amenities
People always ask about the breakfast. It’s free. It’s a buffet. You know the drill: scrambled eggs, those little sausage patties, and the DIY waffle station that always has a line. It’s reliable, but don't expect a gourmet brunch.
🔗 Read more: Getting From Paris TX to Dallas: What Most People Get Wrong About the Drive
The pool is outdoors. In Phoenix, that’s a necessity. It’s fenced and relatively private despite being so close to the highway. There is a hot tub, though recent guest feedback suggests it’s occasionally out of commission for maintenance. If a soak is your deal-breaker, call the front desk at +1 602-943-0010 before you book to see if it’s currently bubbling.
Parking isn't free. This catches a lot of people off guard. There is a $5 per day fee for uncovered self-parking. In a city like Phoenix, where parking is usually abundant, it feels a bit like a "gotcha" fee, but it does include in-and-out privileges.
The Elephant in the Room: Property Condition
I’m going to be blunt. This property is older. While the staff—especially the front desk managers—get rave reviews for being "above and beyond," the physical building is showing its age. You might see a water stain on a ceiling tile or some worn carpet in the hallways.
Marriott has been pushing for renovations across its North Phoenix properties. While some rooms have seen updates like 43-inch flat-screen TVs with Netflix and Hulu streaming, the "bones" of the hotel are definitely from a different era of hospitality.
Is it Safe? The Honest Truth
Because it’s right off the freeway and near a major construction site (the old Metrocenter), you will see a diverse crowd. Yes, there is a homeless population in the general North Phoenix area. This is true for almost any hotel located directly on the I-17.
The hotel has security measures in place. The parking lot is well-lit, and the building requires key card access after hours. Most guests feel perfectly fine, but if you’re used to the manicured suburbs of Scottsdale, the grit of the Black Canyon corridor might be a surprise.
Why Business Travelers Pick This Spot
If you are in town for a meeting at the Rose Mofford Sports Complex, you are golden. It’s a five-minute walk. No Uber needed.
- The Desk Setup: The ergonomic workspaces in the rooms are actually decent. You get a real desk, not just a glass table.
- Connectivity: The Wi-Fi is free and generally handles video calls without dropping.
- 24/7 Gym: It’s small, but it has the basics—treadmills, some free weights, and a cable machine.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
- Request a "Quiet Side" Room: Ask for a room facing away from the I-17. The highway noise is constant. The rooms on the east side of the building are significantly quieter.
- Use the Light Rail: The station behind the property is the 19th Ave/Dunlap station. It's a cheap way to get to a Diamondbacks game or a concert at Chase Field without paying $40 for parking downtown.
- Dining Options: There isn't a restaurant on-site. However, Ojos Locos is a short walk away, and Texas Roadhouse is a three-minute drive. For a quick morning fix, there’s a Denny's nearby too.
- Pet Policy: They do allow pets (dogs and cats), but it's a $75 non-refundable fee per stay. If you’re only staying one night, that’s a steep price for Fido.
The SpringHill Suites Phoenix Black Canyon Hwy serves a very specific purpose. It’s a high-value, high-space option for people who need to be in North Phoenix and don't want to pay $300 a night for a resort. It isn't the fanciest Marriott in the valley, but it’s one of the most functional if you know what to expect.
💡 You might also like: The Gondola Ride Las Vegas Secrets Most People Miss
Check your Marriott Bonvoy app for "Member Rates" before booking. Often, the price drops by $10–$15 just for being logged in, which effectively covers your parking fee and a coffee. Ensure you have your confirmation number ready at check-in, as the 4:00 PM rush can get a bit hectic when multiple youth sports teams arrive at once.