Bucket List Item: A Visit to Meteor Crater in Arizona

Arizona is home to one of the largest natural landmarks in the world—and no, we’re not talking about the Grand Canyon!

Located just 20 miles west of Winslow and 35 miles east of Flagstaff in northern Arizona, Meteor Crater houses the best preserved meteorite impact site on earth. The Crater was created approximately 50,000 years ago when a meteor ended its 500 million year journey through space on a collision course with Earth.

Traveling at approximately 26,000 miles per hour, it passed through the Earth’s atmosphere and, in a blinding flash, struck the Earth with an explosive force greater than twenty million tons of TNT.

The meteor’s impact left a giant bowl-shaped crater nearly a mile across and more than 550 feet deep in northern Arizona, which people are encouraged to experience firsthand.

If you’re looking for something new and exciting to put on your bucket list, standing over this beautifully massive and historic meteor impact site should definitely top the list.

A trip to Meteor Crater begins with a ten minute movie in an 80 seat, big screen theater. Then, walk out and view the crater itself from three lookout points on the rim. After, weather permitting, get a closer look and take a guided rim tour with friendly and knowledgeable tour guides who will share the history of Meteor Crater and many behind the scenes stories on events and experiences that have happened over the years.

Then, head back inside and spend some time in the Interactive Discovery Center, which is one of the most extensive and informative museums of its type in the world. Experience the impact with a wide range of exhibits that will fascinate and educate you on the topic of meteors and their encounters with earth.

Also, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before you leave, featuring great souvenirs, fossils, rocks, gemstones, DVDs, books and much more!

Open 7 days a week, 364 days a year, Meteor Crater has so much to offer. If you’re an RV traveler looking for a place to park and enjoy nature, Meteor Crater has a comfortable and convenient RV base camp for scenic day trips and exploration of Northern Arizona. Or if you’re a family looking for something fun and adventurous to do, take a road trip to the Meteor Crater and experience everything it has to offer; there is something for everyone!

Come witness the amazing views at Meteor Crater, and enjoy the satisfaction of crossing one unforgettable adventure off your bucket list.