Meteor City & Meteor Crater, Arizona
For travelers venturing west on the historic Route 66 after departing Winslow, Arizona, a curious landmark awaits: Meteor City. More than just a roadside stop, Meteor City stands as a testament to the allure of classic Americana and the enduring fascination with the cosmos. It wasn’t a town, but a trading post strategically positioned to beckon motorists with its unique charm. While its retail offerings were a draw, Meteor City’s true appeal lay in its distinctive architecture – a geodesic dome – and the quirky claim of housing the "world’s largest dream catcher," providing a memorable photo opportunity.
The story of Meteor City begins in 1938, when Joe Sharber established a Texaco gas station at the site. The location was deliberately chosen for its proximity to the Barringer Meteor Crater, a geological marvel that has captivated scientists and tourists alike. Three years later, in 1941, Jack Newsum recognized the potential of the location and expanded the business by adding a store. This store catered to the burgeoning stream of Route 66 travelers, offering a selection of souvenirs and essential groceries.
Over time, the gas station ceased operation, and the focus shifted to the trading post. In 1979, a bold architectural statement was made when a geodesic dome replaced the original rectangular building. This dome became an iconic symbol of Meteor City. Sadly, a fire in 1990 destroyed the original dome, leading to the construction of the structure that stands today. Despite its popularity for many years, the owners eventually decided to sell the business. When no suitable buyer emerged, the property was abandoned in 2012, leaving it vulnerable to the elements, wildlife, and unfortunately, vandals. The building and its famed dream catcher were left to deteriorate under the relentless Arizona sun. The future of Meteor City looked bleak, with the site even being placed on a demolition list.
However, the narrative of Meteor City took an unexpected turn. In 2016, Joann and Michael Brown, lifelong enthusiasts of Route 66 with childhood memories of cross-country road trips, purchased the property. Driven by a passion to revive this piece of Americana, the Browns embarked on an ambitious restoration project. They dedicated themselves to clearing debris, repairing the dome, and restoring the outbuildings, all with the goal of reopening Meteor City to the public. Their progress can be followed on their official Facebook page, offering a glimpse into the painstaking work of breathing new life into this historic landmark. Meteor City stood as a symbol of the resilience and charm of Route 66.
Meteor Crater: A Monumental Impact
A short drive west of Meteor City, just six miles south of Interstate 40, lies the colossal Meteor Crater. This geological wonder serves as a stark reminder of the power of cosmic forces. Formed approximately 50,000 years ago, the crater is the result of a massive iron meteorite, estimated to weigh over 60,000 tons, colliding with the Earth. The impact created a gaping depression in the Arizona landscape, measuring approximately 4,000 feet wide and 570 feet deep.
During the golden age of Route 66, D.M. Barringer, recognizing the crater’s potential as a tourist attraction, built an observatory closer to the Mother Road. This allowed travelers passing through the area to view the crater without having to make the detour. For a small fee of 25 cents, visitors could peer through a telescope from the observation tower and witness the immense scale of the impact.
Today, the original observatory exists only as stone ruins, a silent witness to the passage of time. However, the Meteor Crater itself remains a major attraction. A modern visitor center provides educational exhibits and guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the science behind the impact, the history of the crater, and the efforts to understand and preserve this unique geological site. Meteor Crater is a popular stop for those exploring the natural wonders of Arizona.
Beyond Meteor City & Meteor Crater: Two Guns and Canyon Diablo
Continuing east on Route 66 from Meteor City and Meteor Crater, travelers will encounter the exit for Two Guns, a site steeped in history and intrigue. Here, two ghost towns – Two Guns and Canyon Diablo – stand almost superimposed upon one another. Canyon Diablo, located on the far side of the canyon, gained notoriety in its heyday as a lawless and dangerous settlement. It was described as a place where "Tombstone, Virginia City, and Abilene could not hold a candle to this end-of-the-rail depravity." Two Guns, built long after Canyon Diablo’s demise, flourished during the peak years of Route 66’s popularity, offering tourists a glimpse into the Wild West.
Today, both towns stand silently, overlooking the canyon below. The site is located on private property, and access is sometimes restricted, with gates closed and photo opportunities limited to the frontage road. However, at times, the gate is open, seemingly beckoning visitors to explore the ruins and imagine the lives that once unfolded in these now-abandoned settlements.
A Legacy of the Road
The story of Meteor City and Meteor Crater, along with the nearby ghost towns of Two Guns and Canyon Diablo, is a testament to the enduring appeal of Route 66. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the history of travel, commerce, and the human fascination with the natural world. From the roadside trading post to the awe-inspiring crater, these sites continue to attract visitors from around the world, eager to experience the unique charm and history of this iconic American highway. The revitalization of Meteor City is a testament to the enduring spirit of Route 66.
The region surrounding Meteor Crater and the Route 66 corridor holds a unique blend of natural wonder and human history. While the crater itself offers a powerful lesson in geology and cosmic events, the story of Meteor City provides a glimpse into the entrepreneurial spirit of the early days of automobile travel. The proximity of these sites to the ghost towns of Two Guns and Canyon Diablo further enriches the experience, adding a layer of intrigue and reminding us of the ever-changing landscape of the American West. These locations together create a captivating journey through time and space.
In conclusion, Meteor City & Meteor Crater, Arizona, stand as significant landmarks along the historic Route 66. Meteor City, with its ongoing restoration, represents the dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of the Mother Road. Meteor Crater offers a profound experience, showcasing the immense power of nature. Together, these sites, along with the nearby ghost towns, provide a compelling reason to explore this captivating region of Arizona.