Exploring Arcosanti: A Model for Collective Living

Driving about 400 miles outside of Los Angeles will take you to the world’s first sustainable arcology (architecture and ecology) urban prototype in Yavapai County, Arizona. Since construction first began in 1970, Arcosanti has been a present and future model for collective living from the mind of Italian architect, Paolo Soleri.

We ventured out for a long nature weekend with Klean Kanteen’s in tow to stay in Arcosanti’s Sky Suite. The beauty of making an off the beaten path trip to see and stay at Arcosanti is that you’re so close to so many cool day trips and escapes. During our stay, we got to visit nearby Montezuma Castle National Monument, home to ancient limestone cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people, explored Sedona, and even completed a popular hike up to the birthing cave.

While exploring nearby areas was a huge treat, taking in the history and sights of Arcosanti was definitely a highlight. Visitors can opt to go on socially distanced daily tours of the grounds to learn more about the history and structures that occupy this special place. You’d be surprised to find multiple Airbnb suites, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a cafe, classrooms, and more alongside the famous Vaults. Occupying about 25 acres, residents live and work in the town that provides most of the commodities they need.

*This trip took place on the ancestral lands of the Yavapai Apache, Pueblos, Hopi, Western Apache, and Hohokam.

We left Arcosanti feeling inspired and energized about the possibilities for the future. A future that is rooted in sustainability and community. My hope is that we as a society are closer to making it a reality than we think.