Desert Accommodations

The city of Phoenix, with its attractive climate and diverse commercial enterprises, has always had a strong lodging industry. The first hotel was built by John Gardiner in 1872. This initial hotel would set the stage for the growth of a large and interesting industry. Construction would progress from hotels to auto courts and motels. It would culminate with neon illuminated motel rows and flamboyantly designed properties. The motel rows and theme hotels are gone today but many remnants still remain. This book contains: The history of lodging in Phoenix. A listing of lodging properties built 1872 to 1972. Interesting related historical events. A history of franchised locations in the city. A listing of properties by address. Over 300 photographs.