Arcosanti feels like another world! (North of Phoenix AZ)

Arcosanti is one of the unique and amazing places to explore after picking up your Campervan Rental in Phoenix, and only 61 miles North of us. It’s really close to the city, yet it feels like you’ve entered another world!

Arcosanti ( https://www.arcosanti.org/) is the brain child of Italian architect Paolo Soleri. He began building it in 1970 as an experimental town to demonstrate his concept of “arcology” – a method of building that reduces the negative impact of urban structures on the earth.

We’ve seen it in the distance when we would drive between Phoenix and Flagstaff, (a very frequent trip in our family!) but had never stopped in to check it out. So, we finally decided to take one of our Campervan rentals that was not rented out, and made a weekend out of it. They even have a camping area on site.

After paying for entry and a tour of the grounds, we enjoyed watching them make their famous bronze bells. Purchasing their bells helps support the mission of this awesome village.

We knew that our weekend would be a fun adventure, but we were surprised at how romantic this little getaway was! We enjoyed the breathtaking views while hiking around the grounds. We even watched the sunset from one of the rooftops…trying unsuccessfully to make heart-shaped shadows on the wall of the next building (see images). We may have failed at heart-shaped shadows, but succeeded at laughing til we cried! We unplugged from the busy world and slowed our pace to match the relaxed atmosphere. This is one of the simplest locations to stay overnight after you pick up your camper van rental at our place in Phoenix, and SUPER cool place to take photos of both the beautiful Sonoran Desert AND some awesome and unique architecture.

Arcosanti is open 7-days a week, except for a few select holidays. They offer daily public tours, live demonstrations, a gift shop and gallery, hiking trails, workshops, and more, a trip to Arcosanti is an experience you will never forget!