Meteor Crater Visitor Center — Attraction in Winslow

I was not impressed... disappointed, really. I was hoping for a wonderful science adventure, but it just fell flat for me. They're "ride" that they have for instance, seemed to have promise, as they zoom you out to see the crater from above, and describe the trees on the ridge, and then you go into outer space and science disappears. I went and saw another film they had on site, which was more serious, but still, with a running time of about 10 minutes, the science was at a very elementary level. They have a somewhat decent museum, but obviously, the show stopper is the crater itself. It was absolutely beautiful, but the overall experience here was still lacking, given how much it cost to gain entry. I think what put me off the most, though, was that they don't really seem to have a schedule for the rim tour, which I wanted SO badly to do. I spent an hour looking at the exhibits, then waited 30 minutes for the tour that was currently taking place to end, and when they returned the guy declares the next tour would be in an hour and 10 minutes. I get that they describe this tour as a courtesy, but the fact is, you pay almost $30 to go in there, and there is NOT, a ton of stuff to keep you there. For $27.00 and tax, a tour of the rim should most definitely be a regularly scheduled feature, weather permitting. Me? I was not waiting another 70 minutes after having been there 90 minutes already, 30 of which was waiting for a rim tour to begin with. I just left with the feeling that this was more tourist trappy than a legit science lover's destination. You would think that the location of the best preserved and widely studied crater on the planet could do a ton better as it relates to their documentaries and...

The Meteor Crater was on my husband’s bucket list; something he has always wanted to see. To me, it was a hole in the ground; however, I did enjoy visiting the crater because of the interesting scientific and educational information that “pulled” me in. The staff was very nice and polite. As you enter, you have the option for stairs or elevator - so, more wheelchair/disabled access than you would find at some attractions such as this. There is a test capsule set up with an astronaut for photos, which was fun to see up close. There is a display case with historical photos and NASA memorabilia and a separate educational museum before you get out to the crater (if you choose to go through it). There is also a walking tour that takes about 1 1/2 hours to walk, which is included in the admission price. It is not wheelchair/disabled/handicapped accessible. The walk out to the observation deck is accessible to most anyone and it has seating. The peak area and lower deck (with fixed telescopes) aren’t as accessible because the only option is stairs to those areas. There is a gift shop with many really cool, interesting items. Crystals, rocks, etc., are much cheaper there than other touristy places we went to in AZ.

There was a discount for buying tickets online but if you are a senior and a veteran, it is much better to buy in person. The combo was only $13 for our friend...

Yes, you have to pay to visit and it’s not cheap in comparison to national parks, but it’s a business. The free tour along the crater edge, which is included in the admission, should be taken to get the best value. However, they are not run every hour, as it depends on staff availability. We were lucky, as our arrival coincided with a tour, but there were only 3 that day. My recommendation would be to call ahead to see when the tours are on. The tour lasts about an hour and is very informative. Lots of time for photos and questions to the guide. It’s suitable for all ages, but not for buggies, wheelchairs or mobility problems. It’s about a ¼ of mile out along the rim and back. Wear a hat and take water, including sunscreen. If I hadn’t been on the tour I would have felt that it was not good value. One word about the tour is that once you are on it there is no way back if you want to leave early or need a bathroom break. There is lots more to see, including a film on how the crater was formed and an exhibition. You can also touch and have your photo taken with a part of the actual meteor. The gift shop is full of the stuff you get at these places. There is also a Subway takeaway as part of the gift shop. The car park is free, but you cannot see anything unless you pay admission. There...