News Summary
The historic Arizona Inn in Tucson has been sold to a new ownership group led by Steve Kerr. The new owners plan to preserve the Inn’s character while renovating it to enhance guest experiences. Key updates include revitalizing the bar and transforming the Greenway House into a wellness spa. The Arizona Inn, a landmark since 1930, aims to maintain its authenticity and long-standing hospitality traditions for future generations.
Tucson, Arizona — The historic Arizona Inn has been sold to a new ownership group that includes former University of Arizona basketball player and current Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr. This change marks a new chapter for the 93-year-old establishment, which has been a staple in Tucson since its opening in December 1930.
The ownership group, which is comprised of Kerr’s wife, Margot, alongside Greg and Marla Amado; Jim and Kerrin Berwick; Phil and Mimi Amos; Kirk Saunders and Ann Peterson; and Brian and Shamra Strange, has expressed a strong desire to preserve the hotel’s unique character while also enhancing its offerings for future generations. The previous owners, Patty Doar and Will Conroy, shared their gratitude that a knowledgeable and motivated group with ties to Tucson has taken the helm of the property.
The new owners are particularly focused on maintaining the Inn’s authenticity, stating that it “doesn’t need reinvention — it deserves devotion.” Brian Strange will manage the hotel and supervise renovations through his hotel management company, S Hotel Properties.
Renovation Plans
Several renovations are planned, which include a revitalization of the Inn’s bar, set to be renamed Bar 1933. This name pays homage to both the year the bar first served post-Prohibition cocktails and the year Isabella Greenway, the Inn’s founder and Arizona’s first Congresswoman, was elected. Additionally, the restaurant will undergo updates while retaining some iconic dishes beloved by patrons.
Future enhancements will transform the historic Greenway House into a wellness spa, offering various services aimed at relaxation and rejuvenation. Attention will also be given to the pool area, with improvements planned that respect the Inn’s beautiful gardens, which will remain preserved.
Historical Significance and Legacy
Located in Midtown Tucson on 14 acres of land, the Arizona Inn has been a prominent landmark for nearly a century. The property was recently valued at over $5.6 million, according to assessments. The Inn is recognized for its historical importance, having been added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
Steve Kerr, a notable figure with roots in the local basketball community, aims to uphold the long-standing traditions of hospitality that have defined the Arizona Inn for generations. The establishment features original furniture from the Arizona Hut, an earlier project by Greenway designed to aid disabled World War I veterans, which adds to its rich history.
The new ownership group describes their role as custodians of a Tucson treasure, expressing a unified commitment to the Inn’s authenticity. Their goal is to enrich the guest experience while preserving the welcoming charm that the hotel has offered for decades. With the new plans, there is optimism for the future of the Arizona Inn and its role within the Tucson community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KGUN9 News
- Wikipedia: Arizona Inn
- Tucson Sentinel
- Google Search: Arizona Inn historic Tucson
- Tucson.com Real Estate
- Google Scholar: Arizona Inn Tucson
- Tucson.com Opinion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tucson
- Tucson.com News Article
- Google News: Arizona Inn sale
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