5 Unusual Buildings in Arizona You Have to See to Believe

Nature created Arizona’s most iconic landmark, the Grand Canyon. As one of the top natural wonders in the world, it is unlike anything else you’ll find around. While nature has given us striking masterpieces, man hasn’t done badly either. Some of the strangest buildings in Arizona are proof of this.

With a mix of ancient indigenous inspirations and futuristic designs, along with religious architecture, many of these structures look like creative experiments. In fact, all are truly fascinating, filled with tons of character, and they add so much life to the desert landscape. Chances are, you’ll want to know more about them and take pictures for your social media. Check out my picks for some of the most beautiful buildings in Arizona and why they stand out from the rest. If you ask me, these edgy masterpieces are worth seeing in person.

What Makes Architecture in Arizona So Unique?

The short answer? The desert and iconic red rock canyons, of course! The picturesque natural landscape is an ideal backdrop for man-made structures in Arizona. I love that there is a blend of various bold architectural styles, including Southwestern adobe, clever futuristic concepts, and modern flair, that allow the creations to shine. These buildings are not just beautiful, but they’re also works of art. 

1. Arizona Biltmore Resort, Phoenix

With a nickname like “Jewel of the Desert,” the Arizona Biltmore is no ordinary hotel. The impressive resort was designed by Albert Chase McArthur, inspired by the architectural style of the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It was built almost a century ago using 33,000 pounds of copper for the roof and 250,000 custom concrete blocks. The signature “Biltmore Blocks” were made from desert sand with geometrical patterns resembling palm tree trunks. 

Moreover, the hotel has one of the largest gold-leaf ceilings in the world, second to the Taj Mahal. Not to mention that its luxurious design and elegance boosted Phoenix to a top tourist destination. This sophisticated, nearly century-old resort became a hotspot for the who’s who amongst the rich and famous, hosting presidents, musicians, top movie stars, and more. History buffs and non-guests can book a 90-minute guided tour to marvel at the stunning architecture. Then enjoy a Tequila Sunrise cocktail at the Wright Bar. This historic hotel in Arizona is truly legendary.

2. Montezuma Castle, Camp Verde

Nestled in the cliffs high above Beaver Creek are the extraordinary cliff dwellings built by the Southern Sinagua people around 1050 CE. At first glance, the limestone structure might not resemble the other dramatic man-made architecture in Arizona, and sure, it’s not technically a castle, but this underrated hidden gem in Arizona stands out on its own. The five-story, 20-room adobe and stone structure was built by hand using wooden beams, local limestone, and mud mortar. The multi-level dwellings are a true representative of ancient Native engineering, and it’s one of the best preserved dwellings of its kind in America. 

Located at Montezuma Castle National Monument, visitors can no longer access the interior, but you’ll get to learn about the indigenous people and how they lived in the Verde Valley. I would recommend this fascinating site for history buffs or anyone interested in learning more about Native American life before European settlement. When you’re here, you get to imagine how the Sinagua people spent their time together by making these humble dwellings their home, or should I say their “castle.”   

3. Arcosanti, Yavapai County

I’ll go out on a limb and say that the utopian town of Arcosanti has some of the strangest buildings you’ll find in Arizona. But don’t take my word for it; these creations earned accolades and recognition from the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal for Craftsmanship. I am not even sure how to describe this quirky destination except to say it’s part masterpiece, part futuristic, sustainable living experiment, where architecture, art, and community blend in the Arizona desert. Officially, designed by architect Paolo Soleri, the town is known as an “arcology”, a combination of architecture and ecology.  

This evolving community has residents, students, and host visitors interested in learning how to build and understand more about Soleri’s creative, ambitious project. The centerpiece of the community is the majestic ceramic vaults, which are by far the most impressive structures here. The stunning concrete arches are used for workshops, performances, and provide shade for summer community gatherings. Since the pedestrian-friendly town is only 70 miles from Phoenix, you can make it a destination for a day trip. Or even better, sign up for the workshop to continue building this man-made wonder in the High Sonoran Desert.

4. Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona   

If there is one place where you’ll need your camera in Sedona, it is when you visit Chapel of the Holy Cross. Nestled in the iconic red rock buttes, this gorgeous chapel manifested from the imagination of sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, who was inspired by the Empire State Building in New York City. Completed in 1956, the breathtaking structure, built 250 feet into the red rock, is a perfect example of human ingenuity and nature. 

Among its accolades are the American Institute of Architects Award of Honor, and it was named as one of the Seven Man-Made Wonders of Arizona. Not to mention that the award-winning chapel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. The expansive views of the gorgeous Sedona landscape from the chapel are enough reason to visit, but it’s also a sacred place for all to reflect and to find peace, even if you’re not religious. Although it’s visible from afar, you won’t understand the magnitude of this 90-foot chapel unless you see it up close and personal for yourself.   

5. Mystery Castle, Phoenix

I can safely say Phoenix Mystery Castle is the weirdest architecture in Arizona. The name says it all! This mysterious structure was built by hand without formal plans, using various recycled materials. The story behind this 18-room, three-story stone mansion is bittersweet. After a tuberculosis diagnosis, Boyce Luther Gulley moved to Phoenix from Seattle and began building this fairytale castle for his daughter, Mary Lou Gulley. This was a dying man’s desire to make his princess’s dream come true of having her own castle to live in. 

Mary Lou offered tours of this dramatic folk-art landmark until she died in 2010, and today the Mystery Castle Foundation offers tours between October and May.

Why These Buildings Stand out From the Rest?

It’s no secret that Arizona is surrounded by natural beauty, but these man-made gems are giving Mother Nature a run for her money. Not only are they architecturally stunning, but each has lots of character and tells its own story. These are the type of structures that, when you leave, you’ll walk away feeling like you’ve seen something different. For those who are photographers, history buffs, or simply inspired by one-of-a-kind landmarks, you’ll want to visit Arizona - it’s the place to be.   

What do you think about my picks for unusual buildings in Arizona? Do you agree with my list? If not, visit our nomination page and sound off by telling me what buildings you would add. 

Also, if you’re feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover quirky attractions in Arizona to visit.