The 2026 Modeling, Estimation, and Control Conference (MECC 2026) will take place at the Tempe Mission Palms, a Destination by Hyatt Hotel, located in the heart of downtown Tempe, Arizona. Set near the shores of Tempe Town Lake and close to Arizona State University- this premier venue offers scenic trails with sweeping views of the Valley of the Sun and provides easy access to many of Tempe’s attractions, shopping, and dining.
The Organizing Committee has negotiated a discounted rate of $239 per night at the conference hotel. Additional information is provided below. Please use this link for making room reservations at the hotel: Group Rate for MECC 2026 Attendees.

Room rate (for standard 1 king or 2 double beds): $239 (excluding taxes and fees)

Resort/destination fees: $15 per room per day
This destination fee for guest rooms is $15.00 (per room per day plus applicable tax) and provides for an enhanced stay experience for guests, which will include:

• Airport Transportation
• Valet or Self-Parking
• Wireless High-Speed Internet in Guestrooms
• In-Room Coffee Service
• USA Today
• Complimentary Access to Fitness Center
• Local and Toll-Free Telephone Calls
• Incoming fax service
• Complimentary access to on-site UPS Store
• Complimentary free charging stations for electric vehicles
• Complimentary poolside Cabanas (based on availability)

Transportation & Airport Shuttles

The hotel will provide courtesy daily shuttle transportation to Phoenix Airport, 5:30am – 10:00pm.
To the hotel:
When you arrive at baggage claim and have luggage in-hand, please call the hotel at (480) 894-1400. The operator will direct you to the proper curbside location for your terminal, and advise you of the estimated pick-up time.
To the airport:
The airport shuttle from the hotel runs on an “as-needed” basis, leaving every 30 minutes, on the hour and half-hour. Reservations are not required.

Top Attractions

• Desert Botanical Garden: Experience the magic of the season with glowing luminaria paths, sparkling lights, live entertainment and festive treats. Plus, be captivated by FRAMERATE: Desert Pulse for an immersive Sonoran Desert holiday like never before.
• Zoo in Phoenix: Discover the wonders of wildlife up close at the Phoenix Zoo — a vibrant oasis where adventure, conservation, and family fun come together.
• Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix: Immerse yourself in the peaceful elegance of the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, where lush landscapes and flowing water create a timeless oasis of harmony and culture.

Driving from Tempe

Driving from Tempe to the Grand Canyon is a scenic and convenient way to experience Arizona’s diverse landscapes. The journey covers about 235 miles and typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours via I-17 North through Flagstaff, passing through beautiful desert, forest, and mountain terrain. Along the way, travelers can stop in Sedona or Montezuma Castle National Monument for stunning views and local charm. Well-marked highways and ample visitor services make the drive an easy and enjoyable route to one of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

Public Transport from Tempe

From Tempe, visitors can take the Valley Metro light rail to PHX Airport or downtown Phoenix, where Amtrak Thruway buses connect to Flagstaff. From there, the historic Grand Canyon Railway provides a scenic ride to the park’s South Rim. This combination of rail and bus travel lets visitors enjoy the changing desert and mountain landscapes without the stress of driving, making it a comfortable and sustainable journey to one of America’s greatest natural treasures.