Attraction Guide: Meteor Crater, Winslow, United States

Meteor Crater Guide

Witness the Power of the Cosmos: Explore Meteor Crater! Guide

Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and impact of Meteor Crater, a remarkably well-preserved impact site located near Winslow, Arizona. This massive crater, formed approximately 50,000 years ago by a meteorite collision, offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of cosmic events and understand the geological forces that have shaped our planet. It's a must-see destination for anyone interested in science, space, and the wonders of the natural world. Meteor Crater's history is relatively short but incredibly dramatic. A nickel-iron meteorite, estimated to be about 150 feet across and weighing several hundred thousand tons, slammed into the Earth at a speed of around 26,000 miles per hour. The impact created a crater nearly a mile wide, 550 feet deep, and with a rim rising 150 feet above the surrounding plain. While scientists initially debated its origin, Daniel Barringer, a mining engineer, championed the impact theory in the early 20th century, though he never found the meteorite itself. Visitors can explore the crater rim via several viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The interactive Discovery Center provides fascinating exhibits about the formation of the crater, the science of impact events, and the search for extraterrestrial life. Guided tours are available, offering in-depth information and allowing you to descend into the crater (partially). There's also a 4D Immersion Theater that simulates the impact event. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the crater itself, the nearby town of Winslow offers a variety of dining options.