One of our country's most popular destinations, Grand Canyon National Park, draws about six million visitors annually. At almost one mile deep and 18 miles wide, this incredible natural wonder must be seen to be believed. The Grand Canyon offers something for everyone: donkey rides to the canyon floor, ranger-led tours for the kids, and hiking trails with some of the world's most amazing views. The park also has several places to stay and dine, both above the rim and on the canyon floor.
So, get the most out of your trip to the Grand Canyon with this AAA travel guide to the area's most popular diamond-rated hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Getting Around Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon Village, located on the South Rim, gets the majority of the park’s visitors. The village is small and there’s plenty of parking throughout if you arrive by car. But, if you’re coming on the bus or the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona, there are several convenient ways to get around the area without a vehicle. The National Park Service operates free shuttle buses that connect major points of interest, including lodges, campgrounds, visitor centers, and many of the scenic overlooks. Bright Angel Bicycles offers rentals and guided bike tours, which are perfect for exploring the South Rim. Walking is also an option as most hotels, restaurants, and trailheads are within two miles of the visitor center.
Best Time to Visit Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon’s breathtaking beauty changes with the calendar, and each season has its pros and cons when it comes to visiting. However, most would consider spring and fall as the optimal times to visit. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:
Winter (December to February)
Weather - Cold and snowy at the South Rim, with daytime high temperatures ranging from 20-50°F. The North Rim is generally closed to vehicles from mid-October to mid-May each year.
Events - The Grand Canyon Railway runs a Polar Express from Williams, AZ to Grand Canyon Village, right past Santa’s workshop, during the Christmas season. The historic El Tovar Lodge on the South Rim gets decked out for Christmas and hosts several festive holiday meals. Winter festivities at nearby Williams, AZ include an annual tree lighting ceremony, a Christmas parade, and Santaland - a day of family fun and a visit with Santa Claus.
Why Visit During Winter - Small crowds make winter the ideal time to visit for those seeking solitude. Lodging is more affordable, and trails are less crowded. With a dusting of snow, winter also offers unique views of the canyon and stunning photo ops.
Spring (March to May)
Weather - Mild average temperatures between 40-70°F with occasional rain and blooming wildflowers.
Events - The canyon takes center stage in the spring with few scheduled events. Ranger programs become more frequent as the season progresses, however. Spring break draws families to the South Rim this time of year.
Why Visit During Spring - Perfect hiking weather and fewer crowds than in summer make spring ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The bright blooms of desert wildflowers add to the canyon's beauty. Also, more daylight means more time to explore.
Summer (June to August)
Weather - Hot, especially at the lower elevations of the canyon, with highs often exceeding 100°F. The rims are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 50-85°F.
Events - Summer features various ranger-led programs and activities for families. The Grand Canyon Village is in full swing with events such as the Grand Canyon Star Party, the Grand Canyon Music Festival, and Night Sky Talks - a free ranger-led event where visitors can view the night sky through telescopes and ask questions about the stars.
Why Visit During Summer - Although it’s the busiest season, summer offers the longest daylight hours for exploration. The quieter North Rim section is also open.
Fall (September to November)
Weather - Crisp, clear skies with temperatures ranging from 30-70°F.
Events - Fall foliage at higher elevations adds vibrant colors to the canyon's landscape. Events and ranger programs wind down as the season progresses. The Celebration of Arts - a week-long festival where artists create plein-air art on the South Rim - takes place each September.
Why Visit During Fall - Comfortable weather, smaller crowds, and stunning views make fall an excellent time for photography and outdoor activities.
Whether you're a casual visitor, a seasoned hiker, or an amateur photographer, the Grand Canyon offers something spectacular every season.
Top Things to Do in Grand Canyon National Park
While most people come for the stunning vistas, there are plenty of other activities to fill out a trip to Grand Canyon National Park. Here are five of the most popular:
Hike the Bright Angel Trail
The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular and accessible hiking trails in the Grand Canyon. It starts in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim and ends at the canyon floor. It’s well-maintained and features incredible views of the canyon's layers as you descend.
- Distance: The trail stretches nine-and-a-half miles to the Colorado River. Many hikers turn around at popular rest stops like Indian Garden, which is four-and-a-half miles in. But, keep in mind that it’s possible to turn around at any point on the trail.
- What to Expect: Shaded areas, plenty of photo opportunities, and several bathrooms along the way.
- Why It's a Must-Do: The trail provides a firsthand look at the canyon’s geological features, rare vegetation, and unique wildlife.
Experience the Grand Canyon Skywalk
Located at Grand Canyon West, the Skywalk is a glass bridge extending 70 feet out over the canyon. The incredible structure offers a unique perspective from 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. By car, getting to the Grand Canyon Skywalk takes about four hours from the South Rim, and two hours and twenty minutes from Las Vegas.
- What to Expect: A thrilling experience as you walk over the canyon’s edge, with clear views of the immense chasm beneath your feet.
- Why It's a Must-Do: The Skywalk provides a one-of-a-kind way to see the canyon's sheer size and depth, perfect for thrill-seekers and photographers.
Take a Helicopter Tour
A helicopter tour is a breathtaking way to experience the Grand Canyon's vastness, especially if you are short on time. Tours often depart from the South Rim or nearby airports like Tusayan.
- What to Expect: Panoramic views of the canyon, the Colorado River, and key landmarks like the Kaibab National Forest and Tower of Ra. Some tours even descend to the canyon floor.
- Why It's a Must-Do: Seeing the canyon from the air highlights its immense scale and beauty and provides a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground,
Explore Desert View and the Watchtower
Located on the South Rim, Desert View offers stunning panoramic views and a chance to explore the iconic Desert View Watchtower.
- What to Expect: A short climb to the top of the watchtower rewards visitors with sweeping views of the Painted Desert, the Colorado River, and the canyon’s eastern expanse.
- Why It's a Must-Do: The Watchtower, designed by architect Mary Colter, combines incredible views with cultural significance, as its interior features Native American art and design.
Raft the Colorado River
For adventure enthusiasts, rafting the Colorado River provides an exhilarating way to explore the canyon. Options range from half-day smooth-water trips to multi-day whitewater expeditions.
- What to Expect: Towering canyon walls, exhilarating rapids (on whitewater trips), and unique views of the canyon from the riverbed. Guided tours often include stops at hidden waterfalls and historic sites.
- Why It's a Must-Do: Rafting offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the canyon’s natural environment, from its roaring rapids to its quiet, serene sections.
Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Village has several lodgings at various price levels. All remain open year-round and all fill up fast, so reserve well in advance. Staying in the village offers a truly special experience. You’ll be able to enjoy sunrise and sunset over the canyon and walk to most restaurants, trailheads, and viewpoints. The North Rim also has the Grand Canyon Lodge, which stays open seasonally. Just outside of the park’s South Rim gate, the little town of Tusayan, AZ also has four lodgings. The nearby towns of Williams, AZ, and Flagstaff, AZ (60 or 90 minutes away by car, respectively), have plenty of options, as well. There are AAA Diamond-rated options, three in Grand Canyon Village, one in Williams, AZ, and one in Flagstaff, AZ.
El Tovar Hotel
Address: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Location: South Rim, steps from the rim’s edge
Best For: Historic charm and unmatched proximity to the Grand Canyon’s iconic views
A historic gem that has hosted presidents and dignitaries since its opening in 1905, the luxury El Tovar features elegant Southwestern décor, a fine dining restaurant, and stunning views of the canyon. The lodge-style accommodations provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploring, and the location is unbeatable for catching sunrise and sunset views.
Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins
Address: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: FYI - For Your Information
Location: South Rim, near the Bright Angel Trailhead
Best For: Rustic charm and a budget-friendly option
Designed by Mary Colter, the Bright Angel Lodge showcases rustic architecture that blends with the natural surroundings. A favorite with hikers for its budget-friendly rooms and proximity to the Bright Angel Trailhead.
Kachina Lodge
Address: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Location: South Rim, central to shops and dining
Best For: Modern convenience and canyon-view rooms
The Kachina Lodge offers contemporary accommodations in a prime South Rim location. Many rooms feature partial canyon views, and all provide easy access to nearby attractions, including the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
Address: 235 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ
Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Location: Downtown Williams, adjacent to the Grand Canyon Railway Depot
Best For: Families and travelers looking for convenience and a touch of history
The Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and charm. Its location, just steps from the historic Grand Canyon Railway, makes it the perfect starting point for a scenic train ride to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Designed with a Southwestern theme, the hotel features spacious guest rooms, an outdoor pool, and a cozy pub and restaurant on-site.
The Little America Hotel Flagstaff
Address: 2515 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ
Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
Location: Forested area near I-40, just minutes from downtown Flagstaff.
Best For: Travelers seeking a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and convenient access to attractions
Nestled within the Ponderosa pine forest, Little America Hotel Flagstaff offers luxury, charm, and a tranquil escape. The spacious and elegantly designed rooms with large windows and nature-inspired décor create a cozy yet refined atmosphere
Where to Eat in Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Village has various eateries that serve cuisine ranging from sandwiches and pizza to steak and prime rib. There are also two food trucks for those on the go. The North Rim has three spots to grab a good meal - Deli In the Pines, the Roughrider Saloon, and the Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room. AAA gives its stamp of approval to one restaurant in Grand Canyon Village - the El Tovar Dining Room - and one just outside the South Rim entrance in Tusayan. There are plenty of AAA-rated restaurants in Flagstaff, AZ as well.
El Tovar Dining Room
Address: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
Cuisine: Continental, Fine Dining
Reservations: Highly Recommended
The upscale restaurant in the historic El Tovar Hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an elegant atmosphere with spectacular views. It’s a perfect choice for special occasions.
Harvey House Cafe
Address: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: Not Diamond-designated
Cuisine: American, Family Dining
Reservations: Suggested for dinner
The family-friendly Harvey House Cafe, located in the Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual atmosphere. Popular menu items include farm-fresh scrambled eggs, burgers, and local craft beers.
Arizona Steakhouse
Address: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: Not Diamond-designated
Cuisine: American, Steakhouse
Reservations: Suggested for dinner
The Arizona Steakhouse, which is also located in the Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, serves lunch and dinner with a regional twist and locally fresh ingredients. Popular menu items include a bison ribeye, salads, and plant based options.
The Yavapai Tavern
Address: 11 Yavapai Rd, Grand Canyon Village, South Rim, AZ
Diamond-designation: Not Diamond-designated
Cuisine: American, Bar & Grill
Reservations: Not required
The Yavapai Tavern is located in the Yavapai Lodge and specializes in comfort food like burgers, flatbreads, and craft beer. The outdoor seating area features a relaxed atmosphere and panoramic views of the canyon.
Grand Canyon Photo Spots
With breathtaking landscapes and iconic vistas, the Grand Canyon boasts endless opportunities to snap spectacular photos. Here are some of the top spots to capture its natural beauty:
1. Mather Point
A short walk from the South Rim Visitor Center, Mather Point provides sweeping views of the canyon. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical here, with long shadows showcasing the canyon’s rugged landscape.
2. Hopi Point
Another popular spot for sunset photography, Hopi Point features an unobstructed view of the western horizon. The canyon walls’ layered colors become especially vibrant as the sun dips low.
3. Desert View Watchtower
Situated on the eastern edge of the South Rim, the historic Desert View Watchtower blends Ancestral Puebloan architecture with the area’s natural landscape.
4. Toroweap Overlook
For adventurous photographers, this remote spot on the North Rim offers dramatic views of the Colorado River from 3,000 feet high. It’s an ideal place for capturing the depth and scale of the canyon.
5. Havasu Falls
Located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, getting to Havasu Falls requires a challenging 10-mile hike each way. But its vibrant turquoise waterfall against red canyon walls makes it worth the effort.
Visiting the Grand Canyon Floor
Visiting the Grand Canyon floor is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that requires careful planning, and at times, an overnight stay. Four of the most popular methods to get to the canyon’s floor are hiking, by mule, by kayak, and by helicopter. Here’s a look at each:
1. Hiking
Note: These trails are closed until further notice due to wildfire. The well-maintained Bright Angel Trail begins at the South Rim and runs 7.8 miles to the Bright Angel Campground. It's a strenuous hike that usually involves an overnight stay and requires lots of preparation. The slightly shorter but steeper South Kaibab Trail runs seven miles each way and ends at the Colorado River. This trail features stunning panoramic views. Keep in mind, however, there is no water along the trail.
2. Mule Rides
Note: Phantom Ranch is closed until further notice due to wildfire. Mule rides to Phantom Ranch at the canyon floor are a good way to descend without the exceptional physical acumen required for hiking down. These rides are guided and usually include an overnight stay at Phantom Ranch. Reservations are required, and the tours fill up quickly.
3. Rafting on the Colorado River
Some multi-day whitewater rafting trips include stops along the Grand Canyon floor. Trip lengths range from three to eighteen days. Shorter, smooth water rafting trips, starting at Glen Canyon Dam, don’t include the floor but offer views of the lower sections of the canyon.
4. Helicopter Tours
Several helicopter tours from Las Vegas and nearby areas include a trip to the canyon floor, typically in the West Rim. Helicopter landings are prohibited in the South Rim section of the park.
Day Trips from Grand Canyon
This area of the country has several destinations that rival the stunning beauty of the Grand Canyon. Each of the following can be done as a day trip from Grand Canyon Village or as a separate stop en route to or from the canyon.
1. Grand Canyon Full Day Small Group Tour
- Duration: Six to seven hours
- Details: More than just a sightseeing expedition, this popular tour employs master naturalists, botanists, geologists, and historians to bring the canyon to life. Guides take guests off the beaten path and explain how the canyon was formed, the park’s flora and fauna, and its history.
2. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
- Duration: Full day
- Details: About a two-and-a-half hour drive from Grand Canyon Village, Page, AZ, features some of the Southwest's most stunning landscapes. Visit Antelope Canyon at midday when light beams illuminate its multicolored walls to create a magical effect. Horseshoe Bend features sweeping views of the Colorado River, making a U-turn from 1,000 feet above.
3. Monument Valley
- Duration: Three-and-a-half hours (191 miles) by car
- Details: Like the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley provides a “bucket list” experience. Its desert landscape and stunning red rock monoliths create one of nature’s greatest masterpieces. The Native American Navajo tribe considers the land sacred and visitors may only enter the interior sections of the area with a Navajo tour guide.
5. Flagstaff's Historic Route 66
- Duration: Half-day to full-day
- Details: Just an hour and a half south of Grand Canyon Village, Flagstaff offers a nice break from a day of hiking and sightseeing. Popular attractions include the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Lowell Observatory, and the historic Route 66 district.
Traveling to Grand Canyon National Park on a Budget
Whether you’re trying to keep your trip affordable or just want to maximize value, AAA has lots of tips to explore the Grand Canyon without breaking the bank. Here's how you can save:
- Take Advantage of Free Activities. The park has plenty of free activities, including free shuttle buses that make stops at popular viewpoints along the South Rim. The visitor center has lots of interesting exhibits, free films, and free maps and guidebooks. The Rim Trail and Bright Angel Trail are also free to access.
- Budget-Friendly Lodging. Stay outside the park in Tusayan, Williams, or Flagstaff as lodgings tend to be less expensive compared to those inside the park. The park also has several campgrounds that will save you money over staying in an area hotel.
- Visit in the Off-Peak Seasons. Rates for everything go down during the off-peak seasons. Planning your trip for late fall to early spring in the winter will save you money across the board.
- Save on Meals. There’s a supermarket in Grand Canyon Village where you can stock up on supplies and skip eating every meal out.
- Use self-guided tours. Self-guided exploration using free resources like park maps and apps can save you money.
- Take Advantage of Your AAA Membership. Use this guide to Grand Canyon National Park along with your AAA membership for discounts on hotels, rental cars, tickets, and more.
A Few Final Tips
- Stay inside of Grand Canyon Village, if possible. The experience of being able to walk out of your hotel room and view the canyon at your convenience, (think sunrise and sunset), will be well worth any extra cost.
- Be aware of altitude sickness. The South Rim is approximately 7,000 feet above sea level, and the North Rim is 8,000 feet above. More than likely, you’ll be arriving from a much lower altitude and be susceptible to extremely painful altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine, at least for the first day at a higher altitude.
- Download the area’s map to your phone or GPS device, before you go. Internet coverage in the Grand Canyon can be spotty, especially in remote areas. GPS service doesn’t need the internet to provide your location, as long as the area map is on your device.
- If you go in the spring or fall, pack clothes for all seasons. April temperatures, for example, range from daytime highs in the mid to upper 60s, (shorts for some), to nighttime lows in the 20s, (winter coats for most).
- Make a point to visit at least one of the area’s other natural attractions. Sedona, Antelope Canyon, and especially Monument Valley are less than a half-day drive from Grand Canyon Village and are all worth the trip.
Plan Your Grand Canyon Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Grand Canyon trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.