Visit these Extraordinary Eco-Spaceships Found Only in New Mexico

If you have watched Interstellar and are intrigued by space, you need to check out Earthships in Taos which are the eco-spaceships of our planet!

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What’s an Earthship Anyway?

Welcome to Earthships, where creativity meets sustainability in a whirlwind of recycled materials, renewable energy, and off-grid living. Tucked away in the scenic landscapes of New Mexico, Earthships are not just homes; they’re a testament to human ingenuity and our quest for a greener tomorrow.

Imagine a home that’s not just a home, but a spaceship and a sanctuary all in one. That’s the magic of an Earthship! These off-grid wonders, born from the visionary mind of Taos Architect Michael Reynolds, are constructed using recycled materials like earth-rammed tires, cans, old car batteries, and bottles. They seamlessly blend into the natural environment, making them a unique and unforgettable sight.

The Anatomy of an Earthship

Earthships are more than just recycled homes; they’re eco-masterpieces.
They’re not too tall, just one floor, snuggle into hills, staying warm and snug. On one side, extensive glass walls let the outside world in, filled with green plants like a mini jungle.

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Some Earthships have fantastic towers or funny shapes, but they’re all made by the people who live in them. Each has its personality, showing off how creative and unique the owners are. So, every Earthship feels like a unique adventure, just like you and your friends building a cool fort in your backyard!

Here’s a peek into what makes them so unique:

1. Sustainable Materials:

Earthships are crafted using a blend of earth-rammed tires, bottles, cans, and reclaimed wood. These materials reduce waste and provide thermal mass. This means they make the interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

2. Passive Solar Design:

With large south-facing windows and strategically placed insulation, Earthships harness the sun’s power for heating and lighting, minimizing the need for conventional energy sources.

3. Water Harvesting:

The iconic sloped roof isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s a water-harvesting marvel. Rainwater is collected, stored, and reused multiple times within the Earthship, creating a closed-loop water system.

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4. Renewable Energy:

Solar panels and wind turbines dot the landscape, providing Earthships with clean, renewable energy. These homes are entirely off-grid, showcasing the potential of sustainable power sources.

5. Food Production:

Earthships aren’t just about shelter; they’re mini-ecosystems. Many Earthships feature greenhouse spaces where residents can grow food year-round, promoting self-sufficiency and eco-friendly living.

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Touring the Earthship Wonderland

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure with their array of tours, meticulously designed to immerse you in the captivating Earthship experience.

1. Self-Guided Tour: Explore at Your Own Pace

Step into the Visitor Center, a fully functional Earthship that serves as an enlightening hub. Roam through the greenhouse teeming with diverse plants, delve into fascinating videos about Earthship marvels, and be awestruck by photographs showcasing Earthships worldwide. Take a peek into the Water Organizing Module and Power Organizing Module, and venture outside to witness rainwater catchment systems and the very first Earthship ever built on-site.

The ticket price is $9 per adult, free for kids under 12, and for Taos locals and Earthship alumni.

2. Guided Tour: Dive Deeper with Expert Insights

Join our knowledgeable guides on an interactive journey through Earthship history, design principles, and sustainable living tips. Visit the Earthship Classroom for an immersive lesson, explore survival buildings and experimental sites, and get inspired by the innovation buzzing around every corner. Pro tip: Thursdays to Sundays are tour days, so mark your calendar for an unforgettable, hands-on experience!

Ticket Price: $22 per adult

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3. Private Tour: Tailored Experiences for the Curious Souls

Their private tours are just the ticket for those craving a personalized adventure. Dive into Earthship rentals (subject to availability), peek into ongoing projects, and discover educational Earthships that showcase the best of our green technologies. Book in advance for an exclusive Earthship escapade!

4. Gallery Experience: Dive into Earthship Awesomeness

Need a quick dose of Earthship brilliance? Swing by the gallery, which is filled with learning panels, captivating photographs, and must-have merchandise. Their staff can answer questions and guide you through the Earthship universe.

Location: 2 Earthship Way, El Prado, New Mexico, 87529

Timings: 9 am to 4 pm MST daily

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How to Earthship Like a Pro

Ready to embark on your thrilling Earthship adventure? Secure your tickets online or at the front desk (hurry, spots fill up fast!). Remember to dress for the occasion with sturdy shoes for dirt roads and pathways, and don’t forget your rain gear during monsoon season. Get ready to witness the future of sustainable living at Earthships, where every step is a leap towards a greener, brighter world.