One of the most unique places you can possibly go in Arizona is also an inexpensive road trip destination. Arcosanti, an experimental town with an emphasis on sustainable architecture, offers daily tours for just $15, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Nestled on a hilltop 70 miles north of Phoenix, Arcosanti is an experimental town whose vision can be accredited to the late Italian-American architect Paolo Soleri. He is the father of “arcology,” a concept striving to design structures that leave the lowest environmental footprint possible for densely-populated areas.
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Weekend tours are held for just $15 a person, making Arcosanti an extremely affordable day trip destination. Guests are also welcome to shop, peruse the grounds, and enjoy the Visitor Center free of charge.
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You’ll admire the iconic architectural elements, many of which are unique to Arcosanti. Art is imbedded in the paneling, structures are designed to absorb light and heat from the sun, and the overall layout is meant to foster lasting friendships.
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The community does have permanent residents – mostly employees, but interns and volunteers also live there. In total, there are about 70 full-time residents, who lead the tours so guests can truly get a feel for what Arcosanti life is like.
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Outside of the daily tour, several additional experiences feature specific aspects of Arcosanti not otherwise accessible to the public. For $30 per ticket, you can learn about how exactly the unique buildings were constructed, the ideas of Paolo Soleri, and the varying sustainable technologies used in the city.
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You can even enjoy a fresh, seasonal meal in the cafe! Local ingredients are prioritized, and you can really taste the difference.
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For an even more immersive experience, overnight guests are welcome at Arcosanti. Guest rooms, dorms, and suites are available, all with their own unique architectural design and minimalist furnishings that foster a sense of introspection.
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Visit Arcosanti’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
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Flickr/Norton Gusky
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Flickr/Maureen
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Have you ever been to Arcosanti? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Let us know, and check out our previous article for more affordable road trip destinations: 12 Inexpensive Road Trip Destinations In Arizona That Won’t Break The Bank.
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Address: Arcosanti, AZ 86333, USA
