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📝 1. Overview
Meteor Crater and Sunset Crater, located near Flagstaff, Arizona, offer two of the most fascinating natural wonders in the region. Meteor Crater is a massive, perfectly preserved impact crater, formed by a meteorite collision over 50,000 years ago, and is one of the best-preserved craters on Earth. Visitors can walk around the rim and learn about the impact event through interactive exhibits. Just a short drive away, Sunset Crater offers a dramatic view of a volcanic landscape, where you can hike among volcanic rock formations and explore the area’s unique history as a dormant volcano. Together, these two sites provide a cosmic and geological adventure unlike any other.
🧡 Most liked comment: “Meteor Crater is incredible—such an awe-inspiring site, and Sunset Crater’s volcanic landscape is mesmerizing!”
🥇 Runner-up: “The views at Sunset Crater are stunning—hiking around the volcano was a highlight of my trip!”
🏅 Fan fave: “I loved learning about the history of Meteor Crater—it’s one of the most unique places I’ve ever visited!”
🌟 2. Highlights
🌎 Meteor Crater – One of the best-preserved impact craters on Earth
🌋 Sunset Crater Volcano NM – Walk through lava fields and cinder cones
🥾 Lava Flow Trail – Easy loop through volcanic remnants and black rock
🚀 Astronaut Memorial Park – Honors training done here for Apollo missions
👨🚀 Meteor Crater Discovery Center – Interactive space & science museum
🏺 Wupatki National Monument – Nearby ancient ruins in red-rock landscape
🕳️ Bonito Lava Tube – Explore a real volcanic cave (check access season)
💡 3. Tips
🕐 Best time = Spring or fall for cooler temps; summer heat can be intense
📱 No cell signal in parts of Sunset Crater—download maps ahead
🎒 Trail shoes, hats, and plenty of water are musts—surfaces can be sharp
🅿️ Free parking at both craters; arrive early for best views and lighting
🧼 Respect all protected geologic areas—don’t climb or take rocks
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Info
| 🎫 Category | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Meteor Crater Entry | $29 (adult) | Includes museum, lookout & film room |
| Sunset Crater / Wupatki Combo | $25/vehicle | Good for 7 days; shared entrance pass |
| Lava Flow Trail Access | Free | No additional cost beyond park entry |
| Ranger Programs | Free | Check schedules at visitor centers |
🍽️ 5. Nearby Eats
🥪 Satchmo’s BBQ (Flagstaff) – Cajun-influenced meats, cozy outdoor vibe
🍕 Pizzicletta (Flagstaff) – Wood-fired pizza after your lava hike
☕ Meteor Crater RV Park Café – Casual spot for coffee & sandwiches near the crater
🚗 6. Access
📍 Location: East and north of Flagstaff via I-40 (Meteor) and US-89 (Sunset)
✈️ Nearest Airport: Flagstaff Pulliam (45–60 min drive)
🚐 Both sites are remote—self-drive is essential
🅿️ Free parking; visitor centers have restrooms & water stations
🚌 No public transit; some Flagstaff-based tours available in summer
🧘♀️ 7. Vibes & Add-ons
📸 Best photo spot: Meteor Crater rim platform at sunset; lava trail panorama
🌇 Evening vibes: Stargazing along Sunset Crater road—no light pollution
🛍️ Local finds: Meteorite souvenirs, volcanic rock replicas, space-themed gifts
🏨 8. Recommended Hotels
Meteor Crater RV Park & Cabins 🏨☄️
– Closest to crater; simple but convenient
– 💰 Price: $–$$
– 📍 Interstate 40 Exit 233, Winslow, AZ 86047
Little America Hotel (Flagstaff) 🏨🌲
– Base for both craters; comfortable forest setting
– 💰 Price: $$–$$$
– 📍 2515 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
High Country Motor Lodge (Flagstaff) 🏨🧊
– Mid-century style + wellness vibes post-hike
– 💰 Price: $$–$$$
– 📍 1000 W Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
🌐 9. Contact / Info
📍 Meteor Crater Visitor Info: (928-289-5898)
📍 Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: (928-526-0502)
📍 Wupatki National Monument: (928-679-2365)
📍 Flagstaff Ranger District: (928-526-0866)
🌐 Source: 3clicknavi.com
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