Arcosanti
Cosanti Foundation Experimental Town · Mayer, Arizona
An experimental town on a mesa above the Agua Fria River about 70 miles north of Phoenix, begun in 1970 by the Italian-American architect Paolo Soleri to test his idea of 'arcology' — architecture and ecology combined into dense, walkable, energy-saving communities. Poured-concrete vaults, apses, round windows and terraced buildings rise from the desert, built largely by volunteers and workshop students. It was planned for thousands of residents but only a small part was completed, and a small community still lives and works there. Arcosanti is famous for the bronze and ceramic wind bells cast in its foundry and ceramics studio, whose sale helps fund the project. Resident-led tours ran Thursday to Sunday in 2026, at 9:30 AM, 11 AM and 2 PM, and there is a café and guest rooms.
13555 South Cross L Road, Mayer, Arizona, 86333, United States
Guided tours Thursday-Sunday at 9:30 AM, 11 AM and 2 PM (2026); no tours Monday to Wednesday. Café, shop and guest-room hours vary (check arcosanti.org).