A Side Trip to the Meteor Crater, Arizona

Since we were traveling to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, I wanted to research some of the nearby locations that we could explore on our way to the national park.  I enjoy the research that goes into preparing for vacations and spend hours reading up on the destinations that I plan to visit.  It was during my internet search that I learned about the meteorite crater, located just outside of Flagstaff.  I assumed it would be a quick stop, and was interested in learning more about this incredible act of nature.

Known as the Canyon Diablo Crater and the Barringer Crater, Meteor Crater is privately owned and was designated a national natural landmark in the late 1960s.  What I found so fascinating was the depth (570 feet) and diameter (3900 feet) of this bowl-like structure.   How could a rock made from nickel and iron crash into the earth leaving an impression.

As I approached the observation deck, I felt so small looking down into the crater.  Hardly noticeable in the center was a small astronaut figure that stood to represent the size of an actual man inside of this enormous basin.

In addition to seeing the crater from the viewing platform, there is the Meteor Crater Visitor Center that is located on the north rim.  There are interactive displays and information to learn more about space, the crater and various elements of the solar system that helped create this natural wonder.  Tickets for guided tours of the crater can be purchased from the Visitor’s Center.  Where else can you feel this close to outer space?

What did you find or would you find fascinating during a visit to the Meteor Crater in Arizona?  I would be interested in hearing your thoughts if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my quick visit to the Meteor Crater and wish you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Meteor Crater
Interstate 40, Exit 233
Winslow, AZ  86047

• Admission Fee:  Adults:  $18; Seniors (age 60 and over): $16; Juniors (age 6 to 17): $9.   For additional discounts and group rates, contact the website directly.
• Hours:  The park is open daily with the exception of Christmas Day. from 8AM to 5PM.
• Amenities: Discovery Center, housing interactive displays containing information about meteorites, asteroids, impact cratering mechanics, and the formation of Meteor Crater; “IMPACT, The Mystery of Meteor Crater” movie shown in our Big Screen Theater; Three Lookout Points featuring spectacular views of Meteor Crater and breathtaking desert landscape; and, a guided Rim Tour.  Experience for an additional charge:  Adults and Children 6 years and older for $5 while children 5 years and younger are admitted at no charge.
• Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
• Scenic View:  Photograph of the meteor crater
• Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  You may also want to bring a telephoto lens for photographs.

Where to Stay:

La Posada Hotel & Gardens
303 E. 2^nd Street (Route 66)
Winslow, AZ  86047
Telephone:  928 289 4366

Where to Eat:

Fred Harvey Diner
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest National Park, AZ  86028

What to Eat: 

• Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
• Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
• Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
• Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig.  This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
• Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
• Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
• Tamales!

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