How to Plan the Ultimate Grand Canyon Holiday
Where to Go During Your Grand Canyon Holiday
Start / End
Williams, Arizona
States Covered
AZ
What’s Included
- Williams, Arizona: The Gateway to the Grand Canyon
- Best Times to Visit + Weather
- Where to Stay + Transportation
- How to Get to the Grand Canyon
- Things to Do in Williams
#ThisIsMyRoute
Overview
If you’ve always dreamed of the classic American Grand Canyon holiday, it’s time to bring those fantasies to life. We’re sharing everything you need to know about planning the perfect trip to Arizona, including where to stay, how to pack for the weather, and the best ways to see the star of the show: the Grand Canyon.
Note: The information provided and included itinerary is based on spending a few days in Williams, Arizona, the gateway to the Grand Canyon. You could easily combine it with a larger Arizona or American Southwest itinerary for a more extensive trip. Choose your own adventure!
Grand Canyon Holiday Trip Planner
WILLIAMS, ARIZONA: THE GATEWAY TO THE GRAND CANYON
Welcome to Williams! Known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, this quaint Arizona town is the perfect base camp for your Grand Canyon holiday. Besides easy access to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, Williams offers lodging, dining, and plenty of other ways to be awe-struck during your stay.
How Far is Williams from the Grand Canyon?
From Williams to the Grand Canyon is just about 60 miles (96 kilometers) and takes about an hour by car. If you go by train, the journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes–more on that below!
BEST TIMES TO VISIT THE GRAND CANYON
We mean it when we say there really is no bad time to visit Williams, Arizona. Depending on your interests, some seasons may be better than others for your trip. Unlike some parts of arid Arizona, Williams experiences distinct seasonal changes throughout the year. Spring and fall are mild, summer is quite warm, and winter can be a bit colder – cold enough for snow! Some activities, for instance hiking, may not be suitable in the afternoon on a mid-summer’s day. Alternatively, you’ll find winter has more preferable conditions for stargazing. Pack accordingly, manage your expectations, and be sure to check the seasonal availability of attractions before you arrive.
What’s the Weather Like at the Grand Canyon?
Like Williams, the weather at the Grand Canyon South Rim changes with the seasons. Expect heat and sunshine in the summer, generally pleasant days and cool nights in the spring and fall, and colder temperatures in the winter.
Grand Canyon Climate Tips:
- Always wear sunscreen (even in winter!)
- Carry plenty of water
- Plan your day’s activities around changing temperatures
- Pack layers for warmth and/or sun protection
WHERE TO STAY
Lodging options in Williams accommodate a variety of budgets and preferences. The most affordable places to stay are campsites and budget motels. A handful of charming inns and mid-range hotels are also located in Williams. The Grand Canyon Hotel is a particularly unique stay with 29 individually themed rooms. For a bit of luxury, book a room at The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, where offerings include everything from an indoor swimming pool and hot tub to crackling fireplaces cozying up the lobby. Alternatively, sleep under the stars but stay close to your favorite creature comforts at one of the area’s glamping sites.
Do I Need a Car?
Yes. After all, this is a road trip adventure and one along one of the most iconic roads in America at that! They don’t call Route 66 “the Mother Road” and “America’s Main Street” for nothing. Plus, the centennial year of Route 66 is just around the corner, so there’s no better time to honor the iconic motorway. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of opportunities to get out and stretch your legs and lots of excursions that will relieve you from being stuck behind the wheel. You can rent a car at your arrival airport or in most major cities in Arizona, including Phoenix, Flagstaff, Albuquerque, and more.
HOW TO GET TO THE GRAND CANYON
While driving to the Grand Canyon may seem the simplest option, especially since you have likely rented a car for your stay, we invite you to consider taking the traditional route. That is, the Grand Canyon Railway. This locomotive rumbles north towards the South Rim, taking passengers on a journey through history and nature along the way. Certainly one of the most unique train trips in the United States, the Grand Canyon Railway is undoubtedly one of the best ways to get to the Grand Canyon.
Unique Ways to See the Grand Canyon
Once there, decide how exactly you’d like to encounter the Grand Canyon with a variety of tours and excursions to choose from. Grab a photo from a scenic overlook then head off for a hike or gentle horseback ride. For a bit more speed, rent a mountain bike or join a Jeep tour (be sure to reserve your spot in advance!) The most daring explorers will revel in experiences ranging from helicopter tours to skydiving.
THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS
In Williams, Arizona, neon signs adorn the air and chrome-clad vintage automobiles line the streets of historic Route 66. Spend some time exploring the bygone era diners, service stations, and other retailers dotted along downtown Williams.
Then, grab your lasso and meet up at the Wild West Junction. There, frontier days come alive with period entertainment that transports you straight to the 1880s. For more family-friendly giggles, check out Poozeum, which is sure to be one of the most unique museums you’ll ever visit!
Soar above it all on the Route 66 zipline where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of downtown Williams below. For even more thrills, check out the Canyon Coaster Adventure Park and Grand Canyon Go Karts.
Beyond the town’s Americana nostalgia, spend time immersing yourself in enlightening Indigenous experiences. At the Desert View Watchtower, Hopi artistry melds with breathtaking Canyon views. Meanwhile, the ancient pueblos beckon at Wupatki National Monument, where ancestral peoples once thrived.
Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in the surrounding trinity of national forests – Prescott, Coconino, and Kaibab – offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, pedaling, paddling, riding, and wildlife viewing.
For more up-close-and-personal animal encounters, Bearizona Wildlife Park allows visitors to safely walk and drive along enclosures housing bear, elk, bison, and wolves. You won’t get hands on with any of the animals here, but if that’s an experience you’re interested in then head over to Grand Canyon Deer Farm. Gentle beasts like deer, goats, sheep, and even camels welcome visitors to this petting zoo-like experience.
Seasonal Activities
Outdoor seasonal activities vary from river rafting trips in summer and to cross-country skiing through pristine ponderosa pine forests in winter. Hit the links during the milder months, and cast a line during fishing season. For festive frivolity, visit during the holiday season to see the Grand Canyon Railway transform into the Ultimate Polar Express Experience.