Arcosanti is an architectural wonder in Arizona, attracting art lovers, architects, urban planners and curious explorers from around the world. Founded in 1970 by Italian architect Paolo Soleri, Arcosanti is an experimental town focused on architecture, ecology and sustainable living.
More than 8,000 people have contributed to the project since its beginning, and it continues to offer new ways to visit and participate. Even if you have visited in the past, there are plenty of new developments happening at Arcosanti that make it worth a repeat visit.
TOURS
For day trippers, Arcosanti offers daily tours showcasing its iconic form-cast concrete structures, bronze foundry and ceramics studio. (60–90 minutes, $22/per person). Recently, Arcosanti added three specialized tours that require advanced booking:
Architectural Tour: Led by Tomiaki Tamura, a retired and long-term architectural assistant to Paolo Soleri, this tour dives deeper into the site’s planning and design.
Archives Tour: Ideal for designers and artists, this tour offers a look at models, sketches, photographs and journals from throughout Arcosanti’s 50-year history.
Sustainability Tour: Participants can learn directly from residents about the site’s smart and efficient operating systems.
CAFÉ
Reopened in July 2024, Arcosanti’s café features a desert-ingredient-focused menu and a full espresso bar, serving meals that often incorporate locally grown fruits and herbs.
“We want to stay indigenous and local, using foods that the surrounding lands produce,” says Allison Elliott, lead chef and food systems manager.
The café’s lofty ceilings and picture windows provide abundant natural lighting, making it a favorite hangout (and photoshoot) spot.
GALLERY
The gallery at Arcosanti draws many visitors who wish to purchase the renowned bronze bells and ceramic tiles that artisans make onsite and at the sister property, Cosanti, in Paradise Valley. While many items are available from the online shop as well, some special pieces can be found only at Arcosanti.
“We have new ceramic mugs made from bell molds,” says Landry Low, foundry artisan and Cosanti Originals marketing team lead. “There is a very limited supply, and they’re all one of a kind.”
EVENTS + WORKSHOPS
Arcosanti’s workshops have been the pinnacle of its community and growth for decades. The main program is a four-week session that starts with an introductory one-week seminar on Arcosanti’s history, architecture and
sustainability focus. For those with less time, there are also one-day and weekend workshops, including hands-on programs about bronze-bell-making, tile-making and silt-casting.
“The workshops form a cohesive connection with the natural world and the community,” says Education Manager Taylor Morgan.
STAY
There are many ways for visitors to interact with Arcosanti, but nothing quite beats an overnight stay. The largest guest suite, the Sky Suite, was recently renovated and includes an outdoor patio, kitchen, living room and two small bedrooms (up to four people, $250/night). Paolo Soleri’s former living space, the Sun Suite, still contains his drafting table and original artwork ($200/night). The Greenhouse Guest Rooms provide cozy spaces for overnight stays ($106–$135/night). Overnight guests can explore public areas, use the outdoor swimming pool and gaze at the Milky Way on clear nights.
“There are a lot of ways to experience Arcosanti to get a sense of how we can live more in harmony with the earth and each other,” says Arcosanti CEO Ivan Fritz.
For visitors to Arizona or locals from anywhere between Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arcosanti is well worth a visit for a day trip, a hands-on workshop or a weekend getaway. Check out arcosanti.org for new offerings, or follow @arcosanti on Instagram.
