Worth the Stop. Worth Going Back… If You’re a Space Enthusiast.
Meteor Crater is one of those places I’ve wanted to see for years.
Growing up ... Read More
Worth the Stop. Worth Going Back… If You’re a Space Enthusiast.
Meteor Crater is one of those places I’ve wanted to see for years.
Growing up near Middlesboro, Kentucky, I was already familiar with the idea of a meteor impact site. But there’s something different about standing on the rim of one of the best-preserved meteor craters in the world and seeing its scale with your own eyes. More than anything, I wanted my kids to experience that.
It did not disappoint.
The crater itself is impressive, but so is the setting. The stark Arizona landscape creates a perfect backdrop, and the visitor center has been designed to take full advantage of it. Everywhere you turn seems to offer another great photo opportunity.
Inside, there’s plenty to explore. The exhibits are well done, the space memorabilia is interesting without being overwhelming, and the gift shop was one of the better museum gift shops we’ve visited. Whether you’re traveling with kids or you’re simply curious about space and geology, there’s enough here to make the visit worthwhile.
We didn’t have time to eat at the café because we were trying to make it to our next stop before evening, but it was busy enough to suggest it’s a popular choice with visitors.
For me, this was exactly the kind of roadside attraction I enjoy finding on a cross-country trip. It breaks up a long day of driving, gives the kids something memorable to experience, and leaves you with a greater appreciation for just how incredible our planet’s history really is.
Would I stop again?
If I were traveling with someone who had never seen it before, absolutely.
Would I make a special trip back just for the crater?
Probably not—unless you’re a true space enthusiast. If that’s you, you could easily spend much more time exploring everything the site has to offer.
For everyone else, it’s one of those classic American roadside destinations that’s absolutely worth experiencing at least once.
Worth the Stop. Worth Going Back… If You’re a Space Enthusiast. Read Less
