Arcosanti In Arizona Is The Only Experimental City In The United States

Many people in Arizona, particularly newcomers to the Grand Canyon State, don’t know about the experimental city that’s located in Central Arizona, not far from Interstate 17. And while it’s impossible to miss the I-17 exit whose road bears the name of the experimental community, it’s easy to know nothing about what lies just a few miles down Arcosanti Road, located an hour north of Phoenix.

There is an entire community built around the concept of "archology." The experimental community was begun in the 1970s and is an impressive attempt to combine archaeology and ecology in a way that minimizes the destructive effects urban sprawl has upon the landscape.

Arconsanti was the brain child of the Italian-American architect, Pablo Soleri.

The experimental city attempts to keep all buildings within a relatively small footprint (originally around 25 acres) of a more than 4,000 acre preserve.

The result is an ulta-chic and modern rendition that includes multi-story buildings, a cafe, thriving businesses involving the arts, and residential as well as event spaces.

A gallery and gift shop is located on site where you can buy the items made by the crafts men and women of Arcosanti.

In fact, you can take a tour and watch them at work! There is a foundry where you can observe the famous wind bells of Arcosanti being poured. After, visit the gift shop and buy one to take home.

If you want to see what it's like to spend the night in an experimental city, there are modestly furnished rooms available for a very reasonable fee. And there is a public restaurant where you can enjoy views of Paradise Valley through the massive and modern, round windows in the cafe.

Did you know about this unique community located in Arizona?

Want to see it for yourself? Visitors are welcome every day (except major holidays) for self-guided tours. Additionally, the cafe serves a buffet every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guided tours are also available, and range from one to two hours, depending upon which tour you select. Overnight stays are available and offer a variety of room sizes.

Arcosanti is located at 13555 S Cross L Rd., Mayer, AZ 86333. Learn more about this fascinating location in Arizona on the official website of Arcosanti.

Love exploring little-known places in the Grand Canyon State? Check out these 11 hidden gems only the locals know about.

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Arizona Is Home To The Only Experimental City In The U.S. And You'll Want To See This

Robin Jarvis

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