When planning vacations, I’m always searching for fun, unique activities and memorable road trip stops. While mapping out our Arizona adventure, I came across Meteor Crater—and knew we had to check it out. I mean, how could we pass up the chance to see the world’s best-preserved meteorite impact site?
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Read all about the hikes that we’ve conquered!
Getting Started at Meteor Crater in Arizona
Located right off I-40, follow the signs to Meteor Crater.
There’s plenty of free parking available, including spots for RVs and trucks. After purchasing your tickets inside, kids receive a fun activity booklet—kind of like a Junior Ranger program. Complete it, and they’ll earn a prize!
Touch a meteorite
As you head up the stairs to the top of the Barringer Museum, you’ll find the largest piece found of the meteorite at1,406 lb!
Watch the Video
Watch the video at the theatre to gain a better understanding of the meteor crater.
Learn about Meteor Crater at the Barringer Space Museum
The Discovery Center features interactive exhibits and displays that let you dive into the science and history of meteorite impacts from around the world.
Get out to see the Meteor Crater
Step outside and marvel at the Meteor Crater. Explore several telescopes positioned across various observation decks, each offering a unique perspective of the crater. Do you see the astronaut through the telescope?
For a great view of the crater, head towards the left side and walk up the stairs.
Go on a 4D ride
Totally corny but totally fun for the kids. The 12-minute ride brings visitors on a fun mission. If you have time, definitely do it!
Fun photo ops
As you head back outside towards the gift shop you’ll see a few photo ops worthy of a pic.
See a space capsule
One of neat things is seeing the Apollo 11 space capsules used for training.
Stop by the gift shop
The kids completed their booklet so we turned it in at the gift shop. They received a cool sticker in exchange. Pretty cool! The gift shop is worth a stop. The kids got astronaut ice cream. I picked out stickers, patches, and a magnet. Fun times!
More time? What we would do..
Had we had more time to explore these are things we would have done:
- Have coffee at their coffee shop
- Take the free guided tour
Tips to Enjoy Meteor Crater
- It gets really, really windy out there! Hold on to your hats!
- Definitely get the ASTC Membership! 4 free admission so we only paid for our 5th ticket.
Final Thoughts:
Was it worth the cost to see a “hole” in the ground? Definitely yes especially if you have the ASTC membership (which I always HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend!)
While here:
Love Rt. 66? Make sure to stop by Standin’ On the Corner in Winslow!
READ MORE: Looking for more Route 66 fun? You’ll love these!
Nitty Gritty:
Website: https://meteorcrater.com/
Hours: Open Daily 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Address: I-40, Exit 233, Winslow, AZ
Cost: Adults (age 13 – 59) $29, Juniors (age 6 to 12) $20, Kids (age 0-5) FREE, Seniors (age 60+) $27
Have you been to Meteor Crater in Arizona?
