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Meteor Crater Visitor Center: A Window to Space

Explore the impact: Discover the science and history of Earth's best-preserved meteorite crater at this Arizona landmark.

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The Meteor Crater Visitor Center offers an immersive experience into the science and history of the impact that created this natural landmark. Explore interactive exhibits, walk the rim, and learn about the crater's significance in space exploration.

A brief summary to Meteor Crater Visitor Center

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the rim trails, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade is limited and the Arizona sun can be intense.
  • Check the visitor center's hours of operation, as they vary seasonally.
  • Consider booking tickets online in advance to save time.
  • Take advantage of the guided rim tour for in-depth information about the crater's formation and significance.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Meteor Crater is located off Interstate 40, about 35 miles east of Flagstaff and 20 miles west of Winslow. Take Exit 233 and follow Meteor Crater Road south for about 6 miles. There is ample free parking available at the visitor center.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Winslow, a taxi or ride-share to Meteor Crater will cost approximately $40-$60. However, due to the remote location, securing a ride back to Winslow or Flagstaff may be challenging. It's advisable to arrange a round trip or consider renting a car.

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Discover more about Meteor Crater Visitor Center

The Meteor Crater Visitor Center provides an engaging gateway to understanding one of Earth's best-preserved meteorite impact sites. Located near Winslow, Arizona, the crater was formed approximately 50,000 years ago when a large meteorite struck the Earth with the force of 20 million tons of TNT. The visitor center features the Barringer Space Museum, offering interactive exhibits about meteorites, asteroids, and the solar system. See a fragment of the meteorite that impacted the area, weighing over 1,400 pounds. The center also houses a 4D immersion theater, a movie theater, and the Apollo 11 Space capsule. Visitors can walk along the rim of the crater on guided tours or self-guided trails, offering panoramic views of the immense impact site. The crater measures nearly one mile across and more than 550 feet deep. The center also provides accessible viewing areas. The Meteor Crater is a popular destination, drawing roughly 270,000 visitors annually. It also serves as an important educational and research site and was used to train Apollo astronauts.

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