I've stayed at the JW marriott in phoenix twice, and have a third time planned for business reasons. The property is nice - don't get me wrong, though it doesn't have a 5-star feeling, most likely due to it's immense size. If you are attending for a conference, be prepared to walk, and quite a distance sometimes. If it's the wrong month, you can stay inside for your journey, but it could be quite a distance from the furthest rooms to the convention portion of the property.
The surroundings aren't especially beautiful, there's a rather large construction project within close proximity that you'll be staring at if you're in some rooms. Also it's worth noting that I found the sheets on my bed to feel very scratchy (as if they had too much starch), and both myself and my colleagues felt the towels felt more like sandpaper than something you'd want to rub against your skin.
In terms of food, the italian restaurant on property is nice and the food is quite good - I especially love their sausage pizza (ask them to put eggs on it). The roy's in the lobby gives the property somewhat of a "commerical" feel that I don't especially appreciate.

All-in-all, the JW at Desert Ridge is a nice property, though when you compare it to other JWs that I've been to, it lacks some pizazz and panache.

My wife and I escaped a recent Rocky Mountain blizzard by spending a long weekend at the JW Desert Ridge Resort. Upon arrival, the lobby and grounds were a beautiful invitation to a relaxing weekend of luxury. At check in we had a delightful trainee who gave us an efficient and warm reception. Our room had a nice but somewhat obstructed view of the pool area and distant mountains. We used the small balcony frequently during our stay. The room itself was nicely appointed and the bath had both a shower and tub (although the tub was nothing special, the shower was delightfully invigorating).

The grounds and facilities were impeccable during our entire stay. We enjoyed the expansive pool area (which was not at all crowded in this off season time) and hot tubs, and soaked in a bit of sun during the afternoon. We enjoyed a dinner at the Blue Sage the night we arrived, and at Roy's another evening and an afternoon of treatment at the Revive Spa on site (all reviewed separately). Throughout our stay the staff was delightful and professional.

There are also a number of other off site restaurant options just a mile or less away, but we enjoyed staying on site for most of our meals. The location is on the far north side of town, but we enjoyed being a bit out of the way. We also took a day trip to Sedona (which was beautiful but very touristy in town).

When some rowdy neighbors disturbed the peace Saturday evening, the whole incident was handled quickly and effectively by the staff. Nikki, the front desk manager, made up for the trouble the next day and we appreciate her efforts.

Overall, it was a relaxing time at a beautiful resort. This is what a JW is all about.

My husband and I splurged for this weekend getaway and it was worth it! The service was incredible, the food and drinks sublime. I only regret having to go back to reality and not being able to stay longer. Don't waste too much money on the breakfast buffet. (There is a Mimi's across the street.) Instead, have Prickly Pear Margaritas and chips/guac/salsa by one of the many pools. After your nap, golf game, or spa treatment try dinner at Blue Sage. The Chicken Pot Pie was incredible.

This resort was chosen as a couple day layover from Hawaii to Maryland. My visit was end of January which was great because this is a resort kids would love. The lazy river and many pools to choose from. The service was great. If you workout you have to wait if your an early riser or come from the east. The gym opens at 6 am and not easy to get to. Great stay but I will choose J W Marriott closer to PHX airport.