News Summary
The Arizona Inn in Tucson, a beloved landmark since 1930, is up for sale after serving the community for over nine decades. Founded by Isabella Greenway, Arizona’s first Congresswoman, the inn has hosted notable figures and become a key part of Tucson’s history. With its scenic location, luxurious amenities, and rich heritage, this property presents a unique opportunity for a new owner to honor its legacy while envisioning its future.
Tucson’s Beloved Arizona Inn Up for Grabs After Over 90 Years!
Tucson is buzzing with news that the historic Arizona Inn has officially been listed for sale! Nestled in the heart of Midtown and opening its doors in December 1930, this iconic hotel has long been a staple of the community and is set to make its first ownership change beyond the beloved family of its founder Isabella Greenway.
From the Great Depression to Luxury Getaways
Isabella Greenway was a trailblazer, becoming Arizona’s first Congresswoman and establishing the inn during a challenging period known as the Great Depression. Back in the day, Tucson’s population was around just 32,000! Now, the city has flourished, and the Arizona Inn has been at the center of countless memories, hosting famous figures like the Rockefellers, Roosevelts, and even Kennedys.
Located on an expansive 14 acres at 2200 E. Elm St., the Arizona Inn offers convenient access to the University of Arizona, making it a prime location for both leisure and business travelers. With a rich history that stretches nearly a century, the inn represents not just a place to stay, but a glimpse into Tucson’s past.
A Glimpse at Amenities
This splendid resort is more than just a pretty face! The property boasts an impressive 5,000 square feet of event space, perfect for weddings, conferences, and celebrations. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including:
- The Audubon Bar & Patio for laid-back drinks
- The Main Dining Room for dining experiences
- A heated outdoor pool, ideal for year-round swims
- Clay tennis courts and croquet lawns for some fun in the sun
- Saunas to unwind after a long day
- Complimentary bicycles for those who prefer to explore on two wheels
One of the unique charms of the Arizona Inn is its stunning panoramic views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The property has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1988, consistent in celebrating and preserving its historical significance.
The Legacy Continues
The inn has been nurtured and embraced by the Greenway family for five generations, with a rich story that continues to evolve. The current owners are looking for a buyer who will honor and preserve this treasure while also breathing new energy into its future. As the property is being marketed without any management or brand agreements, this presents a fantastic opportunity for a fresh vision.
It’s fascinating to look back at how Isabella Greenway created The Arizona Hut, a furniture shop aimed at supporting disabled World War I veterans. When that venture faced difficulties, she turned her vision into the Arizona Inn to preserve jobs. To this day, original furniture from The Arizona Hut is beautifully maintained throughout the hotel, thanks to the on-site carpentry shop.
Staying Open Through Time
Since its opening, the Arizona Inn has been welcoming guests consistently, operational since 1971 with only brief closures during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Its architectural styles, a mixture of Pueblo Revival and Colonial Revival, were designed by renowned architect Merritt H. Starkweather, further adding to its historical value.
Notably, many Tucson natives hold the inn dear to their hearts, including famous singer Linda Ronstadt who fondly regards it as her “favorite hotel in the world.”
Moving Forward
With an assessed value of over $5.6 million, the Arizona Inn is poised for a new chapter. As one of several historic resorts that catered to an affluent clientele during a significant period of growth in Tucson, the inn represents not just a piece of property but a legacy that showcases the city’s rich heritage.
As this lovely hotel seeks its next steward, the hope is to find someone who appreciates its history and is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. It’s time to see what new stories will unfold at this timeless venue!
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