OCTOBER 2025
The Wonderbus: Where the Arizona Biltmore Story Begins
Long before the Arizona Biltmore opened its doors in 1929, the story of this legendary resort began with two visionary brothers and a remarkable idea. Albert Chase McArthur and Charles McArthur, who moved from Chicago to Phoenix in 1910, were among the early dreamers who recognized the allure of the Sonoran Desert. They saw in the sweeping mountains , glowing sunsets, and endless cactus-lined trails-a destination unlike anywhere else in the country- a place that invited people to explore, escape, and fall in love with the beauty of the Southwest.
A Desert Adventure on Wheels
To share their newfound paradise, the McArthurs created something truly original: The Wonderbus. Outfitting a Dodge truck with extra seats and a supply car, they began leading excursions into the desert. At a time when paved roads were rare and modern tourism was just beginning to take shape, this was a groundbreaking way to introduce travelers to the rugged charm and dramatic scenery of Arizona.
The Wonderbus wasn’t just transportation – it was an experience. Guests would pile into the makeshift vehicle, riding out into the desert for hours of exploration. Along the way, the McArthur brothers would point out local flora and fauna, share stories of Arizona’s history, and offer visitors a taste of the adventurous spirit that defined the west.
A Seed of Hospitality
The Wonderbus marked the beginning of something bigger. What started as simple tours of the desert became the foundation of the McArthurs’ dream: creating a resort that would bring the same sense of wonder to guests in a more permanent, luxurious setting. Less than two decades later, that vision would take shape as the Arizona Biltmore, designed with the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright and destined to become the “Jewel of the Desert.”
Legacy of Exploration
Today, the spirit of the Wonderbus lives on throughout the Arizona Biltmore experience. From guided hikes and stargazing programs to spa rituals inspired by the surrounding landscape, the resort continues to celebrate the connection between its guests and the desert that first inspired the McArthur brothers.
The story of the Wonderbus is more than just a charming footnote in history-it’s a reminder that the Arizona Biltmore was built on a sense of adventure, curiosity, and appreciation for the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Every guest who visits the resort, whether for a relaxing getaway or a celebration, steps into a legacy that began with one remarkable journey into the wild Arizona landscape.
