Michelle Talsma Everson/Suzanne Wilson for Phoenix.Org
With more than a century of history behind it, the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort boasts the status of first-ever golf resort in Arizona. Built in 1912 by Dr. AJ Chandler (yes, the founder of the city), the resort played a prominent part in the history of the area.
The resort bears the name of Friar Marcos de Niza, who legend says visited the Chandler area in 1539 while searching for the mythical “Seven Cities of Cibola.” Some 500 people, including then-U.S. Vice President Thomas Marshall — who served under then-President Woodrow Wilson — attended the grand opening of the facility.
At the beginning, the resort comprised 35 guest rooms, a lobby and a dining room. President Herbert Hoover, fashion designer Christian Dior, and Hollywood stars Errol Flynn and Joan Crawford are among the famous guests known to patronize the San Marcos.
The resort now boasts 295 spacious guests rooms and suites, and first-class amenities. Located in downtown Chandler, the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort remains a popular spot for out-of-towners and weddings.
Location: 1 San Marcos Place, Chandler, AZ 85225
Website: http://www.sanmarcosresort.com/
Phone: (480) 812-0900