As if planners needed another reason to hold events in Southern Arizona, there’s a new destination management organization to help identify stellar venues and amazing offsites that attendees will love. Discover Marana has recently been created to promote the town through a new website and print and online marketing campaigns.
Marana, about a 15-minute drive from Tucson, is known for its beautiful open space and more than 35 miles of trails in the Tortolita Mountains. It’s also close to Saguaro National Park West and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Tucson Premium Outlets, located in Marana, is a big supporter of the new marketing efforts as is Marana Mayor Ed Honea.
“Tourism is a huge industry,” Honea says. “The Town of Marana recognizes what that impact can be for the local economy.”
Pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain
Marana boasts one of the top resorts in the United States thanks to The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain. The majestic AAA Five Diamond resort was once a sacred land inhabited by the Hohokam, who honored a natural beauty that endures to this day. There are 253 guest rooms and suites, and 44,000 sq. ft. of meeting. With a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, an award-winning spa and four restaurants, it’s easy to see how The Ritz gives Discover Marana a property to hang it’s cowboy hat on.
There are actually four championship courses in Marana, offering desert golf at its finest with saguaro-lined fairways and undulating greens set against endless blue skies. The Gallery Golf Club features two highly acclaimed courses, allowing for group events for up to 288. The property also features a spa, a fitness center and tennis courts. The dining facility holds up to 150, with outdoor space for up to 300.
“Marana serves as the gateway to Southern Arizona,” said Toby Parks, tourism and marketing manager for Discover Marana. “The website is an amazing foundation to promote tourism opportunities in the region as well as hotels to stay at in the community.”
