Opening in 1938, the Monterey Court eventually became the Monterey Motel and is now an artisan enclave. When created by Mike and Marge Opel, the motel didn't have any neighbors, and it's quite possible that it was the first motel in Tucson on Casa Grande Highway, also known as Miracle Mile.

As the Interstate Highway System was built, Miracle Mile began a long slow decline in travelers, which tarnished the area for many years. The Opels sold the Motel in the 1980's, and since that time it was resold nine times.

In 2011, Kelly McLear and Greg Haver bought the property and began redevelopment of it into an artisan enclave. Bringing back much of the buildings unique and historic touches that had been covered over by previous owners, the newly renovated building is a unique treasure for Arizona.

Image by Jeroen and Maggie Boersma