Popular Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

If you're heading to Grand Canyon National Park for a day or two and are looking to get the most of your time at this Natural Wonder of the World, consider doing a few of these Grand Canyon's South Rim activities. They can offer incredible views, rich history, and open the gateway to a much more engaging experience.

1) Yaki Point

Take the free shuttle (Orange) year-round from the visitor center to this overlook point.

2 ) Bright Angel Lodge

A historic lodge that will take you back in time! You can find food, lodging and souvenirs here. 928-638-2631

3) Walk the Rim

From Mather Point to Yavapai Point and Geology Museum (0.7 miles)
From Yavapai Point to Verkamp’s Visitor Center (1.4 miles)

4) Bright Angel Trailhead Passport Stamp

5) Hermit’s Rest

Take the shuttle (Red) on Hermit Road to amazing points and vistas to Hermit’s Rest (March 1 - November 30)

6) Ride a horse or mule into the Canyon

There are different options to be able to ride a horse or mule into the Grand Canyon. For mule rides contact the Bright Angel Transportation Desk at 928-638-2631. You can even ride your own horse if you want too! Or if you would like to hire a horse, Apache Stables in Tusayan is a popular stable for horseback riding. Contact: 928-638-2891, www.apachestables.com.

7) Free daily Park Rangers programs

From the visitor center take the Blue Shuttle to check out Shrine of the Ages. A multi-functional venue located in the heart of Grand Canyon Village that provides daily free park ranger programs.

8) Explore Tusayan

Take the shuttle (Purple) in the spring and fall into Tusayan to visit the Imax and eat at Big E Steakhouse and Saloon

9) Drive to Desert View Watchtower

A 22-mile drive from the visitor center along the canyon’s rim. You will pass Grandview Trailhead, Buggeln, Moran Point, the Tusayan Museum and Ruin, Lipan Point, and Navajo Point – all are wonderful places to get out of the car and have a picnic. Desert View Watchtower has information, Hopi murals, cultural demonstrators, and passport stamping. You can climb the stairs up this amazing tower. 928-638-8960

10) Camp at the Desert View Campground

(April – Oct) First come first served. Tent, RV. Leashed animals okay. 928-638-7888

Pro Tip: Utilize the FREE shuttle buses: Arrive every 10-15 minutes / 4 bus routes
Leave what you find: rocks, plants, artifacts, wood. This is a National Park.
Beat the Heat, always have water and always be aware of the weather.
Flying drones in the Grand Canyon is illegal.

More Grand Canyon Things to Do

Self-Guided Hiking (See some of our suggested trails)
Take photos
Free hop-on/hop-off bus shuttle along the rim
Enjoy a picnic
Spend time in the Visitor Centers, museums, galleries, shops, and outdoor exhibits
Rent or bring a bike to ride along the South Rim
Go on a guided tour (air, van, mule, hiking, bike and others)
Walk the Grand Canyon Skywalk on the West Rim
Go on a white water river trip
Camp at one of the several campgrounds near the South and North Rims

GRAND CANYON TOURS & ATTRACTIONS

Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion

The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other … More

Grand Canyon North Rim helicopter tour
Bring your camera for unbeatable views of the canyon
A memorable travel experience great for first-time and return visitors alike
Upgrade to include a Hummer tour after the helicopter ride