Arcosanti

Arcosanti describes itself as an ‘urban laboratory'—a living experiment in founder Paolo Soleri’s theory of ‘arcology’ (a combination of architecture and ecology). Established in the 1970s, the aim of arcology is to explore alternative architecture in the pursuit of environmental responsibility and alternatives to urban sprawl. If you’re looking for uniquely Arizona, this is it. While Soleri’s ideals of living in harmony with the environment are as relevant as ever, the look of Arcosanti is a bit dated, something like a Jetsons vision of the future. But don’t be deterred—the high-domed apses and massive circular windows of the Sky Suite are remarkable sites that warrant the 70-mile drive north of Phoenix. Arcosanti holds annual workshops that teach the founding concepts of the community. Every year the town hosts about 35,000 tourists who stop to stay the night, tour the buildings, ponder the concepts of arcology, and purchase the famous bronze and ceramic Arcosanti wind bells that are the economic lifeblood of the community.