Phoenix, Arizona, September 9, 2025

News Summary

Marilyn Monroe’s classic film ‘Bus Stop’ was filmed in Phoenix, highlighting the city’s appeal as a destination for Hollywood stars. The Sahara Motor Inn and San Carlos Hotel served as Monroe’s residences during the shoot, showcasing Phoenix’s history as a popular retreat for celebrities. The film’s notable locations included the Westward Ho and Arizona State Fairgrounds, contributing to its enduring legacy in Arizona’s film history. As the city continues to evolve, these iconic locations remain part of Phoenix’s vibrant cultural narrative.

Phoenix Hosts Marilyn Monroe for Iconic ‘Bus Stop’ Film in 1956

Phoenix, Arizona served as an essential backdrop for Marilyn Monroe’s classic film “Bus Stop,” filmed in 1956. The project marked a high point in Phoenix’s ongoing history as a filming hotspot, characterized by its accessibility, scenic landscapes, and favorable weather conditions.

Monroe, who had achieved stardom through her breakout roles in films like “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” and “How to Marry a Millionaire” in 1953, came to Phoenix during a significant time in her career. After a tumultuous partnership with 20th Century Fox, she established her own production company and later re-signed with Fox to produce “Bus Stop,” in which she portrayed Cherie, a saloon singer who falls for a cowboy, played by Don Murray.

Several notable locations in Phoenix were utilized for filming the movie, including the Westward Ho, the Arizona State Fairgrounds, and the local bus depot. Apart from Phoenix, additional scenes were filmed in Los Angeles and Idaho.

Monroe’s Phoenix Experience

During the shooting of “Bus Stop,” Monroe resided in a three-room penthouse suite at the Sahara Motor Inn, situated at the intersection of Polk and First Streets, an area that is now home to ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. Although she spent time at the Sahara, Monroe preferred the San Carlos Hotel on her various visits to Phoenix, specifically requesting a room near the pool to minimize interruptions from fans.

The Sahara Motor Inn and the San Carlos Hotel were part of a larger trend in the 1950s and 60s, where hotels in Phoenix became popular retreats for Hollywood stars, allowing them to escape the public eye. The Arizona Biltmore stood out as a prominent attraction for celebrities seeking luxurious getaways, offering various amenities that catered to the elite. Notable guests included Bob Hope, Irving Berlin, and Bing Crosby.

Arizona’s Film Appeal

Phoenix’s appeal for filmmakers was bolstered by several key factors. Costs associated with filming in Arizona were generally lower than in Los Angeles, providing financial motivations for movie producers. The area’s year-round weather, featuring abundant sunshine, and wide-open landscapes further attracted filmmakers looking for diverse locations. These factors contributed to Arizona’s status as a prime location for numerous films during the 50s and 60s, including well-known titles like “Psycho,” “Sound of Fury,” and “The Nutty Professor.”

Legacy of the Film and Monroe

The role of Cherie in “Bus Stop” earned Monroe critical acclaim and led to her second nomination for the Golden Globe for Best Actress. The ambition of Monroe’s career, characterized by her strategic moves in film and her personal life, solidified her as one of the enduring icons of Hollywood’s Golden Era.

As Phoenix’s cinematographic allure has evolved, the memories of iconic films like “Bus Stop” and stars like Marilyn Monroe continue to capture the essence of a bygone era in the city’s vibrant history. The renovations at the Arizona Biltmore, which now balances modern luxury with historical significance, showcase how the city’s film legacy remains woven into its tourist appeal today.

Key Filming Locations for ‘Bus Stop’ in Phoenix:

• Westward Ho
• Arizona State Fairgrounds
• Local bus depot

Famous Guests at the Arizona Biltmore:

• Bob Hope
• Irving Berlin
• Fred Astaire
• Bing Crosby

Historical Significance of the Arizona Biltmore:

Opened in 1929, the Arizona Biltmore features luxury accommodations that attracted Hollywood’s elite, further enhancing its status as a go-to retreat for stars like Monroe, who famously mingled with other famous personalities at its pool.

Key Characteristics of ‘Bus Stop’ and Marilyn Monroe’s Impact

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HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• AZCentral: Marilyn Monroe Filmed ‘Bus Stop’ in Phoenix
• Magneto Magazine: Arthur Miller & Marilyn Monroe Land Rover Auction
• AZCentral: Celebrity Sightings at Durant’s Steakhouse
• Afar: The Biltmore Arizona – An Iconic Southwest Resort
• Thrillist: The History of Arizona Biltmore
• Wikipedia: Marilyn Monroe
• Google Search: Marilyn Monroe Bus Stop
• Google Scholar: Marilyn Monroe Film
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Marilyn Monroe
• Google News: Marilyn Monroe

Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.