Tucked away in the vast desert landscape of northern Arizona lies one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring geological marvels: Meteor Crater Arizona. Also known as Barringer Crater, this massive impact site is a window into the distant past, offering visitors a glimpse into the raw power of a space rock colliding with our planet around 50,000 years ago. Whether you’re a space enthusiast, a history lover, or simply a curious traveler, this iconic site offers an unforgettable experience.
What is Meteor Crater Arizona?
Meteor Crater is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites in the world. It was created by a nickel-iron meteorite roughly 150 feet across, traveling at an estimated speed of 26,000 miles per hour. Upon impact, it released energy equivalent to about 10 megatons of TNT, leaving behind a crater nearly 1 mile wide and 550 feet deep.
The crater is located about 37 miles east of Flagstaff and just off Interstate 40, making it easily accessible for travelers. It’s a designated National Natural Landmark and remains privately owned by the Barringer family, whose patriarch, Daniel Barringer, was one of the first to propose that the crater was formed by a meteor impact.
Things to Do at Meteor Crater
Explore the Visitor Center
The Meteor Crater Visitor Center offers a comprehensive look at the history and science behind the crater. You’ll find:
- Interactive exhibits
- A 4D immersive theater experience
- Space exploration exhibits in collaboration with NASA
- A real Apollo test capsule
Take a Guided Rim Tour
Weather permitting, guided rim tours are included with admission. These 45-minute tours offer historical context, geological insights, and stunning views of the crater. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, there are self-guided indoor viewing platforms and outdoor observation decks.
Visit the Discovery Center & Gift Shop
Inside the Discovery Center, you can touch an actual fragment of the meteorite that created the crater. The adjacent gift shop offers fun souvenirs, science kits, apparel, and more.
Best Time to Visit Meteor Crater Arizona
The site is open year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are milder. Summer can be hot, and winter may bring occasional closures due to weather.
Operating hours typically range from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though summer hours may extend slightly. Always check the official Meteor Crater website for current hours and ticket pricing.
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
If you’re planning a road trip, Meteor Crater is a great stop on a broader northern Arizona itinerary. Nearby attractions include:
- Petrified Forest National Park (just an hour away)
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Flagstaff, a charming mountain town full of restaurants, breweries, and museums
Pro tip: If you’re coming from Flagstaff or Winslow, this is a convenient half-day trip that can be combined with other geological wonders in the area.
For more inspiration, check out our guide to Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, a treasure trove of fossilized wood and colorful badlands.
Why Visit Meteor Crater Arizona?
Educational Value
This isn’t just a hole in the ground it’s a powerful educational tool. It demonstrates impact science, geology, and astronomy in a way that no textbook can match.
Family-Friendly Adventure
The interactive exhibits and dramatic views make this an exciting stop for families with kids, school groups, and tourists alike.
Unique Photography Opportunities
The size and desolation of the crater provide incredible photography moments, especially during sunrise and sunset. Don’t forget your camera or drone (where permitted)!
Visitor Essentials
Admission:
- Adults: ~$25
- Seniors: ~$23
- Youth (6–17): ~$16
- Kids under 5: Free
Address:
Meteor Crater Road, Winslow, AZ 86047
Located just off I-40, Exit 233.
Parking:
Free and spacious, suitable for RVs and tour buses.
Looking for a full road trip itinerary? Check out our guide on ghost towns like Vulture City, which blends perfectly with a stop at Meteor Crater.
Sustainability and Preservation
Meteor Crater is more than just a tourist site it’s a protected scientific location. Visitors are encouraged to respect the land by staying on marked paths, not littering, and following staff instructions during rim tours.
This careful preservation effort has helped the crater remain one of the most scientifically studied impact sites in the world, providing critical data to planetary geologists and NASA researchers.
Where to Stay Near Meteor Crater
Most visitors choose to stay in nearby Flagstaff or Winslow, both of which offer hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. For a more rustic experience, there are several RV parks and campgrounds in the area.
Want to explore more history? Don’t miss the historic charm of Bisbee, Arizona, another offbeat gem just a few hours south.
Conclusion
Visiting Meteor Crater Arizona is like stepping into a science documentary only better, because you’re in it. It’s an experience that combines natural wonder, cosmic curiosity, and Arizona’s legendary desert beauty. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, it’s a stop you won’t forget.
From crater rim to space museum, there’s something magical about standing where an ancient celestial body forever changed the Earth. Don’t miss your chance to witness this otherworldly wonder.