Exploring the Beautiful South Rim of the Grand Canyon

Transportation options

The closest major airport to the Grand Canyon is Phoenix Sky Harbor, a 3.5 hour drive from the entrance. Although this is doable, it would severely limit your time at the canyon, unless of course you have a hotel booked. Note that the hotels often book out months in advance.

Renting a car and staying in a hotel closer to the entrance like Flagstaff (80 miles way) or Williams (60 miles) will maximize your time at the canyon and shorten your drive. Flagstaff is a popular base location as it offers plenty of budget friendly hotels, a historic downtown with lots of local restaurants and pubs, and many great attractions of its’ own (including the most stunning hikes in Arizona). This is where I live and I love everything about this city. I could go on all day but there is so much to do here that you are better off reading my guide for a full breakdown.

Williams is a good option if you plan on taking the Grand Canyon Railway, or if you are looking for a shorter morning drive as the canyon is located just 60 miles north of the city.  The Railway, which departs on a daily basis, is a 2 1/2 hour scenic ride in your choice of a budget-friendly or more luxury passenger car. Snacks and drinks for purchase, on-site country-western entertainment, and a pre departure Wild West Shootout show are some of the perks of booking a ride on the railway. I prefer driving so I have more time, but if you need a break from driving, a ride on this historic train may be the way to go (just be prepared to pay a lot more!).

Staying at the canyon

There are 6 lodging options at the canyon, all of which fill up extremely fast, especially during the busy warmer seasons. I recommend booking your stay months in advance to guarantee your property and room of choice.

El Tovar – The El Tovar hotel, located just 20 miles from the rim, is the most luxurious option. As so, it tends to fill in advance; it’s always booked when we want to stay. The historic accommodations, built back in 1905, offers 78 rooms, no 2 of which are alike. Rates vary from $197 for a standard room to $321 for a deluxe.

Bright Angel Lodge – This lodge is the more budget-friendly hotel alternative to the El Tovar. Both lodge rooms and rustic cabins are available. Rates range from $89 for a standard lodge room to $197 for a Rim Cabin with a fireplace.

Phantom Lodge – This is the only lodging available at the bottom of the canyon. Quite unique as it can only be accessed through a mule ride, hike, or rafting trip. Space is very limited and reservations must be made well in advance. You can hike to Phantom’s Ranch via a 7.3 mile walk along the South Kaibab trail. Dorm style rooms, available exclusively for hikers, and cabins are available. A cabin for 2 runs $135 while a dorm is $47 per person.

Maswik Lodge – These hotel rooms are more modern as they were just built in the 60’s. 250 rooms built within the Ponderosa pines are available, just steps from the canyon. It was named after a Hopi Kachina, whom is said to guard the canyon. The North Rooms, which are a bit bigger and features extras like a Keurig and a larger fridge are $196, while the smaller South room are $102.

Thunderbird Lodge – Like Maswik, Thunderbird opened in the late 60’s, and thus, features a more contemporary design. It also sits directly on the rim, and therefore, is popular with tourists due to the convenient access to area activities. Being located right on the Rim Trail, it is the perfect option for anyone hiking. Modern amenities like a Keurig and flatscreen TV are available. Some rooms feature partial canyon views, and are priced at $221, while rooms without a view are $205.

Kachina Lodge – This another modern lodging option, built in the late 60’s like the Thunderbird and Maswik. The lodge is located within walking distance to the Bright Angel trail, Kolb studio, and several gift shops. Like Thunderbird, it’s location directly on the Rim trail makes it a perfect choice for hikers. Partial canyon view rooms are $221, while street view rooms are $205.

*Pricing current as of 2024. Rates may change – check each website for current pricing. These are the only lodging choices. The next closest option would be renting a cabin or camping within the Kaibab National Park.

Dining options

There are a number of places to eat during your visit, from casual cafeteria style cafes to fancier restaurants inside the hotels. We have only dined at the Harvey House restaurant in the Bright Angel Lodge and the El Tovar dining room. I didn’t have my camera with me at the time, but I enjoyed a Green Chili Corn Tamale at the Harvey House.

The El Tovar Dining Room is the place to go if you are seeking fancy. The dining room is very elegant, the presentation fantastic, and best of all you can enjoy a hint of a canyon view. I initially complained after my first visit about the lack of vegetarian and gluten-free options (note I no longer dine GF), but they have come a long way. The menu is more diverse now with a lot of options for everyone.

They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The dessert display is particularly impressive with recent options including dark chocolate mousse and Madagascar Vanilla Creme Brûlée.

Helpful tips for your visit

• Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at the spring water stations. I love that they have this fresh water available for free. The dry, high altitude climate means you must drink tons of water to stay hydrated.
• Wear plenty of sunscreen. There really isn’t much in the way of shade. Plus, you burn more at high elevation.
• Wear gym or hiking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking and will be much more comfortable.
• Research lodging options and book at least half a year in advance. You need more than one day to take in all the sights!
• If signing up for a rafting or helicopter trip, book well in advance to ensure your desired date.
• Bring a quality camera and tripod, if available.
• Visit on a free national park day to save on the pricey entrance fee. Check the National Park website for a list of free days throughout the year.

Address & Admission Fees

The park is open 365 days per year. Lodging, camping, and food are also open year-round. Admission is $35 per vehicle or $20 per person for those traveling by foot or bike (15 an under are free). Pricing current as of 2025 and subject to change.

For directions to the Grand Canyon from a variety of starting points, please visit the NPS website.