Arcosanti - Mayer, Arizona

Arcosanti is a unique and fascinating destination located at Address: 13555 S Cross L Rd, Mayer, AZ 86333, United States. This historical landmark is also an art gallery, campground, ceramic manufacturer, guest house, and non-profit organization. With its wide range of on-site services, Arcosanti is accessible to everyone, including wheelchair users and the LGBTQ+ community. It is a transgender-safe space, and visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, especially if they are bringing children.

Arcosanti is not only a place to visit, but also a community that is dedicated to experimental architecture and urban design. It was founded in 1970 by the Italian architect Paolo Soleri, who had a vision of creating a sustainable urban environment that would minimize human impact on the earth. The result is a stunning and thought-provoking structure that blends architecture and nature in a harmonious way.

Visitors to Arcosanti can explore the many features of the site, including the ceramic studio, where they can observe artisans at work and purchase unique ceramic pieces. They can also learn about the history of Arcosanti and its founder, Paolo Soleri, through exhibits and guided tours. The site's art gallery showcases the work of local and international artists, and there are often special events and performances.

For those who wish to stay overnight, Arcosanti offers a campground and guest house. The campground has tent sites, RV hookups, and restroom facilities, while the guest house has comfortable rooms and shared spaces. Both options offer a unique opportunity to experience life in this experimental community.

Arcosanti is located in the beautiful high desert of Arizona, about an hour's drive north of Phoenix. The site is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, with hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching and stargazing. Visitors are encouraged to explore the area and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

In terms of accessibility, Arcosanti has wheelchair-accessible parking, entrances, and toilets. It is a transgender-safe space and welcomes visitors of all genders and sexual orientations. The site recommends that visitors purchase tickets in advance, especially if they are bringing children.

Arcosanti has received many positive reviews from visitors, with a average opinion of 4.4/5 based on 490 reviews on Google My Business. Visitors have praised the site's unique architecture, beautiful setting, and welcoming community. They have also appreciated the on-site services and the opportunity to learn about sustainable urban design.

Overall, Arcosanti is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, art, sustainability, or the natural beauty of the American Southwest. With its wide range of on-site services and unique features, Arcosanti offers something for everyone. To learn more and plan your visit, be sure to check out the website at arcosanti.org.

Reviews of Arcosanti

Cee Gee

4/5

This was a very cool place to visit. The architecture is so interesting, and I enjoyed learning how the intentional community functions.

We friend and I did not stay the night here, but we did go on the guided tour. Our tour guide was great and patiently answered the questions asked by the Boomers from Orange County California. The tour guide was so knowledgeable because she was a resident of Arcosanti!

This place is out in the middle of the desert, so I bet it's quiet at night and the sky is just full of stars.

Kai

2/5

Beautiful place, good environment. Bad tour, not worth the money. we don’t have choice to visit the place but to pay it. don’t have a deep understanding of how this place is uniquely designed. It’s like a real estate agent leading a bunch of people around the property.

Grover “Grover All Over” Monster

5/5

Wind Chimes.... Giant Wind Chimes!!! Brought to you by the city of the future. From the mind of Paolo Soleri, an Italian born architect and student of Frank Lloyd Wright. This city features a large outdoor amphitheater, restaurant and hotel accommodations. Experience the future now, and take home a chime to remember your experience.

Karly H (Exploring the lakes!)

5/5

Stopped here for lunch quick but ended up walking around. We didn’t have time for a tour but added it to my list!!! Looks super cool.

Vishnu Prateek

5/5

Arcosanti is a unique architectural experiment in the Arizona desert, blending sustainable design with artistic community living. Founded by Paolo Soleri, it offers a glimpse into innovative urban planning. Visitors will enjoy its striking structures, serene environment, and eco-friendly ethos.

Karly Bryant

4/5

Drove out for the tour, which had some good information and an interesting demonstration at the foundry where they make the bells. Heads up that there are a lot of fairly steep concrete steps and ramps, so you need to be in good walking condition for this.

There’s something a little melancholy about the fact that it doesn’t appear they’re continuing work on Soleri’s vision, but rather it exists now as a small community of artists. I’d love to see them update and incorporate new understanding of ecology and sustainability since much of what was theorized in the 70s has changed over time and technological advancement.

Pat Port

4/5

One of a kind experience - because each person gets something different and meaningful just for them! Have highly recommended this place to anyone going to spend time in Arizona.

Melissa Rexine

5/5

Unique location in AZ and definitely worth the stop. Lunch was farm to table sourced from the area. The properties buildings and surrounding landscape are beautiful.