Planning a trip to Arizona and looking for something unique to do outside the Phoenix metro area? We’ve got a space-age idea for your next adventure: Meteor Crater near Flagstaff! On a recent family trip, we visited this fascinating natural landmark, and it was a huge hit for both kids and adults.
Whether you're into geology, space history, or just jaw-dropping scenery, Meteor Crater is the perfect blend of education and exploration. Best of all, it makes a fun and easy day trip from Chandler when you’re staying at The Gary House.
🪐 What Is Meteor Crater?
Meteor Crater is exactly what it sounds like—an enormous impact crater created by a meteor strike over 50,000 years ago. It’s the best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth, and visiting it feels like stepping onto another planet.
It’s located just off I-40, about 30 minutes east of Flagstaff, and the drive from Chandler is around 2.5 hours. Totally doable as a day trip—and totally worth it!
🌋 What to See and Do at Meteor Crater
There’s more than just a giant hole in the ground (although the view is incredible). Meteor Crater offers a ton of engaging, hands-on activities for all ages:
- Crater Viewing Platforms: Take in panoramic views of the mile-wide crater from multiple observation decks.
- Discovery Center & Museum: Learn about the meteor that caused the impact, and explore geology, space science, and planetary history.
- Interactive Exhibits & 4D Theater: Kids can dig into hands-on science and adults can enjoy immersive visual experiences.
- Astronaut & Capsule Displays: Learn how NASA used the crater to train Apollo astronauts.
- Gift Shop & Outdoor Area: Grab a souvenir, enjoy a snack, and pose for photos with the astronaut statues!
💫 Why We Loved It
From the moment we arrived, our kids were wide-eyed and excited. The crater itself is bigger than you expect—over a mile across and over 500 feet deep. The exhibits were modern and well done, and the whole place had a clean, organized feel.
Some highlights from our visit included:
- Touching a real meteorite
- Getting our photo with a life-size NASA astronaut
- Walking along the outdoor decks to see the crater from different angles
- Learning how astronomers study impact sites to understand space and Earth's history
🍽️ Where to Eat Afterward: Taverna Modern Mediterranean
After our Meteor Crater adventure, we headed back toward Flagstaff and stopped for dinner at Taverna Modern Mediterranean. It's family-friendly, stylish, and the food hit the spot—especially after a full day of walking and exploring. Highly recommend their salads, flatbreads, and signature cocktails!
🏡 Your Home Base: The Gary House in Chandler
After a day of space rocks and science, there’s nothing better than coming home to a clean, comfy vacation rental. The Gary House has everything you need to unwind:
- 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms – perfect for groups or families
- A private hot tub to relax in under the stars
- Fully stocked kitchen, laundry, fast Wi-Fi, smart TVs
- Minutes from downtown Chandler’s restaurants and shopping
- No booking fees when you book direct!
📸 A Few More Pics from Our Meteor Crater Adventure
✨ Plan Your Arizona Adventure Today
Whether you’re here to hike red rocks, explore ancient impact craters, or relax in style, The Gary House in Chandler is your ideal launchpad.
👉 Check availability and book now
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