Grand Canyon Visitor Info
Explore everything you need to know before visiting the Grand Canyon, from the best rim to visit to nearby gateway towns like Williams, Flagstaff, and Sedona. Compare the South Rim, North Rim, and West Rim to find the perfect match for your trip!
South Rim Grand Canyon Visitor Guide
Why the South Rim is the Best Place to Visit the Grand Canyon:
The South Rim attracts over 5 million visitors annually due to its easy access, tourist amenities, hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and wide range of lodging and tours.
- Open: 24/7, year-round
- Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle (National Park Passes accepted)
- Most Popular Season: Summer (expect crowds and limited parking)
- Best Season to Visit: Fall & Spring for cooler temperatures and less crowds
How to Get to the South Rim:
- Drive from Phoenix via Flagstaff or Williams
- Take shuttles from Phoenix to Flagstaff then catch a shuttle or tour to Grand Canyon South Rim
- Choose from these scenic routes:
- Highway 64 from Williams (main entrance)
- Highway 180 from Flagstaff (main entrance)
- US-89 to Desert View (east entrance)
Best Budget-Friendly Lodging & Tours:
- Stay inside the park: Bright Angel Lodge, Maswik Lodge, or Yavapai Lodge
- Nearby towns: Tusayan, Williams, Flagstaff, or Sedona
- Popular tours: train rides, helicopter flights, Jeep tours, ATV rides, airplane tours
North Rim Grand Canyon Travel Tips
Why Visit the North Rim:
A quieter, more rugged canyon experience with only 1 million visitors per year. Ideal for hiking, scenic drives, and camping away from crowds.
- Open: Mid-May to mid-October
- Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle (National Park Passes accepted)
How to Get to the North Rim:
- Best option: Drive via US-89A to Jacob Lake, then Highway 67 (44 miles south)
- Shuttle: Limited service from Flagstaff ($158–$200/person)
North Rim Lodging & Activities:
- Campgrounds: Budget-friendly ($6–$50/night)
- Hotels: Nearby in Fredonia, Kanab, or Page
- Activities: Hiking, mule rides, river rafting, photography
- No major guided ground tours, but air tours to Bar-10 Ranch are available
West Rim Grand Canyon Visitor Guide
Why Visit the West Rim:
Located on Hualapai tribal land, the West Rim is perfect for day trips from Las Vegas and home to the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk.
- Open: Sunrise to sunset, year-round
- Entrance Fees: Skywalk entry ~$99/person
- Note: National Park Passes not valid at West Rim
How to Get to the West Rim:
- Drive 123 miles from Las Vegas
- Last 9 miles of Diamond Bar Road are unpaved (high-clearance vehicle recommended)
- Shuttle from Meadview, AZ — Call: (702) 260-6506
West Rim Lodging & Tours:
- Overnight stays: Limited — most stay in Kingman, Peach Springs, Laughlin, or Las Vegas
- Top tours: Helicopter canyon landings, air tours, Hoover Dam combo bus tours, Colorado River rafting
Nearby Towns for Grand Canyon Trips
Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon: Choose from charming gateway towns with easy access to the park and unique experiences:
- Williams, AZ: 60 miles from South Rim. Great for Route 66 attractions & Grand Canyon Railway.
- Flagstaff, AZ: 79 miles from South Rim. Offers outdoor adventure, breweries, and winter skiing.
- Sedona, AZ: 110 miles from South Rim. Famous for red rock hikes, resorts, spas, and creekside cabins.
THINGS WORTH DOING WHILE VISITING GRAND CANYON
Grand Canyon Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Maverick Helicopter Tours from GCNP Airport
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view. … More
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.
Leaves from Tusayan | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Peaks & Pines 5-BR House - Flagstaff
Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures includi … More
Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, visiting Flagstaff/NAU or exploring the attractions. Its 5 bedrooms, 3 baths comfortably accommodate 12 making this house perfect for large groups/families.
Flagstaff Hotels | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s) | Games Provided | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon Getaway
Family-Friendly | Nearest to GNCP | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Williams Lodging
Grand Canyon Railway
Family-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Things to Do in Williams | Leaves from Williams
Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Romantic
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale with Sedona
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Professionally Guided | All Fees Included
Raptor Ranch RV Park & Campground
RAPTOR RANCH Campground is only 20 MINUTES FROM THE SOUTH RIM ENTRANCE!
We are located close to the Grand Canyon. The campground offers 32 RV Sites, 25+ Tent Sites. FREE Raptor Flight Demonstrations to All Campers! and FREE admission to Bedrock City.
There is free WiF … More
RAPTOR RANCH Campground is only 20 MINUTES FROM THE SOUTH RIM ENTRANCE!
We are located close to the Grand Canyon. The campground offers 32 RV Sites, 25+ Tent Sites. FREE Raptor Flight Demonstrations to All Campers! and FREE admission to Bedrock City.
There is free WiFi Available in Lounge & Laundry Room. We have a Grocery Store on Site, Campfire Rings, Firewood Available at the Camp Store, Giftshop, Showers, Snacks, Coffee, and an Overflow Parking.
Check-In: 1:00 pm, Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Pet-Friendly | Outdoor Fireplace/Pit | BBQ/Grill | Propane Refilling Station | General Store | Shower | Dump Station | Community Restrooms | WiFi | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the … More
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the spectacular Grand Canyon South Rim. Optional "Colors & Canyons" 45-minute helicopter upgrade available.
Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Fun 66 Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Educational
Junipine Resort Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Romantic | Fireplace(s) | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Whirlpool Tub | Family-Friendly | On-site Restaurant | Fitness Center
Arizona Private Tours
Family-Friendly | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Flagstaff | Multi-Attraction Tours
Best Grand Canyon Day Tour
Private Tours Available | Shuttle Services Provided | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours | Additional Tour Options Available | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
Sheridan House Inn - Williams
No Children Accommodated | Romantic | Custom Options Available | Breakfast Included | Optional Intimate Personal Chef Cooked Dinners | Private Porch or Balcony | Hot Tub | Award-Winning | Williams Lodging
Canyon Dave Tours
Private Tours Available | Educational | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Family Business | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours
Western River Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours | Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Wildland Trekking
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Shuttle Services Provided | Gear Rental Available or Provided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Backland Luxury Camping
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fir … More
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fire in our glass-walled restaurant, relax with a massage in our tented spa, marvel at the grandeur of the universe through our complimentary telescopes, and take advantage of miles of nearby hiking trails.
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Features:
- Complimentary Breakfast
- Onsite Glass Walled Restaurant
- Onsite and nearby hiking trails
- Close to the Grand Canyon and dozens of local attractions
- Pond with sand beach, fishing, and kayaking
- Snowshoes and sledding onsite when it snows
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Tents feature:
- Panoramic windows
- Huge stargazing skylights over the beds (Skyview tents only)
- Automatic climate control, fully insulated, and energy-efficient
- King-sized beds
- Full en-suite bathroom with showers
- Luxury linens
- Electricity in tents
- Tentside parking + electric vehicle charging at reception
- Private Outdoor patios
- Coffee makers + mini-fridges
- Ecological toiletries + water conservation fixtures
Pet-Friendly | Fireplace(s) | Family-Friendly | Things to Do in Williams | On-site Restaurant | Outdoor Gear Rental Available | Games Provided | Hot Drinks Provied | Eco-Friendly | Spa | Breakfast Included | Williams Lodging
Comfortable and Scenic near Grand Canyon - Williams, AZ
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Williams Lodging | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen
Maverick Helicopter Tours from Las Vegas
Family-Friendly | Reserve Now Pay Later | Additional Tour Options Available | Leaves from Las Vegas | Optional Ground Tour | Professionally Guided
Munds Park RV Resort
Family-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels | Pet-Friendly | General Store | Laundry | Dump Station | Shower | BBQ/Grill | Fitness Center
The Squire at Grand Canyon
Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | On-site Restaurant | ADA Accessible | Nearest to GNCP | Fitness Center
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Additional Tour Options Available
Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Shuttle Services Provided | Hotel Pickup
Small Group Antelope Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix
Benefit from a full-day tour from Phoenix to Antelope Canyon to see more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Take in Route 66, Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, Lake Powell, and a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Antelope Canyon. Then explore Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, and see the … More
Benefit from a full-day tour from Phoenix to Antelope Canyon to see more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Take in Route 66, Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, Lake Powell, and a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Antelope Canyon. Then explore Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, and see the Colorado River from the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Meals and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Choose between a small-group or private tour.
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Educational | Hotel Pickup | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | All Fees Included
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Things to Do in Williams
Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins - Flagstaff
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels
North & East Rim Imperial with Ecostar Family Flight
Recommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.
Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mi … MoreRecommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.
Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mind and feature lower noise to minimize disturbance. Set off from the Grand Canyon air terminal for aerial sights of the incredible rock gorges, the Colorado River twisting below, and the forested areas of the North Rim. Enjoy the most environmentally-friendly and exclusive way to tour the Grand Canyon by air!Family-Friendly
Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
Sedona Lodging | Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | Outdoor Pool | On-site Restaurant | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Golf Course | Fitness Center | Wedding Venue
Small Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas
Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Breakfast Included | Lunch Included
Grand Canyon National Park Bus Tour from Las Vegas
Explore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.
… MoreExplore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.
Once you arrive at the South Rim, enjoy stops along the rim such as Mather Point and Bright Angel Lodge. Explore popular attractions in the Grand Canyon National Park such as El Tovar, Hopi House, Kolb Photo Studio, and the Bright Angel Trail and make memories of a lifetime!
Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon South Rim, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas
This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive sc … More
This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive scenery.
On the way back to Las Vegas, we will have a short break in Seligman, a small town on Route 66. This is a nice little stopover where you can enjoy the old American atmosphere.
Leaves from Las Vegas | Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours
Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views
Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour. Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop … More
Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour. Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop out, take photos, and explore. Since this is a small-group tour, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, too.
- Visit multiple lookout points within Grand Canyon National Park
- Enjoy the undivided attention of a private driver/guide
- Ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time
- Choose from multiple departures to best suit your schedule
Family-Friendly