Meteor Crater Tours and Activities

Meteor Crater showing desert views and tranquil scenes
Meteor Crater showing desert views and tranquil scenes
Meteor Crater showing desert views and tranquil scenes
Meteor Crater which includes tranquil scenes, landscape views and desert views
Meteor Crater showing desert views and tranquil scenes as well as a small group of people


Study a massive impact crater, created by a meteorite in the northern Arizona desert that hit earth about 50,000 years ago.

Meteor Crater is a large meteorite impact crater and visitor center near Flagstaff, Arizona. The site is one of the best-preserved meteorite craters in the world. It features a visitor center with educational displays and a widescreen theater. Admire the impressive crater from many observation points on the rim.

About 50,000 years ago, a giant meteor dashed across the sky and hit the area now known as northern Arizona. See the impact from the approximately 300,000-ton (270,000-tonne) celestial object. The famous crater is over 3,500 feet (1,000 meters) wide and 550 feet (168 meters) deep.

Observe the site from the Meteor Crater Visitor Center’s indoor viewing area or walk on one of several self-guided observation paths running along the crater’s rim. The paths feature educational panels and observational telescopes, allowing closer looks at the impact crater. Join a tour of the crater’s rim, held when weather allows.

The Meteor Crater Visitor Center is an excellent place to learn about the site and about craters in general. The center contains many fascinating exhibits and an 80-seat widescreen theater. Watch a short film about the origins of Meteor Crater and walk through the center to see a meteorite fragment weighing more than 1,400 pounds (630 kilograms).

Shop for mineral specimens in the visitor center’s Meteor Crater Rock Shop. The shop sells native Arizona minerals, crystals, quartz and petrified wood. If you’re looking for other souvenirs, stop at the Meteor Crater Gift Shop. The visitor center also contains a sandwich shop with indoor and outdoor seating.

Drive to Meteor Crater from Flagstaff in about 45 minutes. Alternatively, reach the site with a 30-minute drive from Winslow. With a wide range of accommodations, the small cities of Flagstaff and Winslow are excellent places to stay when visiting Meteor Crater. See the attraction year-round however, opening times change seasonally and the visitor center closes on Christmas Day.

With interesting displays and extraordinary views of the site, Meteor Crater is a great place to spend a few hours when exploring northern Arizona.

Plan a trip to see Meteor Crater

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Things to do near Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater offers a remarkable outdoor exploration experience, where visitors can hike along designated trails and marvel at the massive impact site. Don't miss the Discovery Center, which features fascinating exhibits about the crater's history and geology. Additionally, nearby attractions like the Meteor Crater Gift Shop and scenic viewpoints provide interesting stops to enhance your visit. It's an unforgettable destination for those seeking adventure and knowledge in Arizona.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience near Meteor Crater, visit the North Park Plaza Shopping Center, located 29.0km away. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, explore local shops in Winslow for more gift and souvenir choices.

Recreation

McHood Park, located 35.4km from Meteor Crater, offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and wellness activities. Enjoy leisurely walks amidst nature, unwind by the peaceful surroundings, and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating vibes that this recreational area has to offer.

Adventure

Explore Meteor Crater, a magnificent site where you can hike the rim for panoramic views and learn about its formation at the visitor centre. Enjoy guided tours to uncover the science behind the impact and take part in educational programs for a thrilling yet informative experience.

Nightlife

While Meteor Crater is primarily a daytime attraction, nearby Winslow offers nightlife options like the Standin' on the Corner Park, where you can enjoy live music and local art. For a laid-back evening, visit the Route 66 Roadhouse for tasty bites and cold drinks with a nostalgic vibe.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Meteor Crater

While visiting Meteor Crater in Winslow, Arizona, you'll find an array of outdoor activities, including exploring urban parks, waterfalls, and lakes. Ideal for families and adventure seekers, this destination offers a unique experience. Don't miss the chance to stay at nearby hotels and discover other local attractions. Make the most of your trip by planning visits to the Meteor Crater itself and enjoying the natural beauty surrounding it.

  • Standin' on the Corner Park: This vibrant urban park, located 29.0km from Meteor Crater, celebrates the iconic song “Take It Easy” by the Eagles. With its unique statues and murals, visitors can enjoy a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere while soaking in the local culture and community spirit.
  • Lorenzo Hubbell Trading Post: Situated 29.0km from Meteor Crater, this museum offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Southwest. Explore the historic trading post and discover unique Native American artifacts and traditional crafts that reflect the area’s diverse history.
  • Old Trails Museum: Also 29.0km from Meteor Crater, this history museum showcases the fascinating stories of Winslow’s past. With engaging exhibits and local history, it provides insight into the pioneers and the development of the region.

Best time to go to Meteor Crater

The best time to visit Meteor Crater is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January32.0°F (0.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February34.3°F (1.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April49.1°F (9.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
May56.8°F (13.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
June68.4°F (20.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
September64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November41.5°F (5.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Meteor Crater

To save money on your trip to Meteor Crater, consider visiting in February or November to December, when accommodation prices drop. The least expensive day to stay is Monday, while Saturday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options by sorting accommodations from lowest to highest price, and look for Eco-certified hotels for sustainable stays. Additionally, consider booking a package deal that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for greater savings. Exploring free activities in the area can also enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Meteor Crater are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and June to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Meteor Crater is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Meteor Crater is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay near Meteor Crater with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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