Grand Canyon Things to Do & Top Attractions

The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, attracting millions of visitors each year with its unique landscapes, rich history, and diverse ecosystems. Whether you’re planning a short day trip or an extended adventure, this guide is your go-to resource for making the most of your visit to this majestic landmark.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the best viewpoints and Grand Canyon hikes to practical tips for navigating the park and finding the perfect Grand Canyon Tour. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to make your Grand Canyon experience unforgettable.

Why Visit the Grand Canyon?

Known for its massive size and colorful layers of rock, the Grand Canyon is much more than a scenic viewpoint. It’s a destination that offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from quiet moments of reflection to thrilling outdoor adventures.

Here are just a few reasons why the Grand Canyon should be on your bucket list:

Panoramic Views: With over 277 miles of river-carved landscape, the Grand Canyon offers panoramic views from nearly every angle. Whether you’re gazing from the South Rim or the North Rim, the view is sure to leave you in awe.
Hiking & Outdoor Recreation: The canyon is home to some of the best hiking trails in the world, ranging from easy strolls along the rim to challenging descents into the heart of the canyon itself.
Wildlife & Nature: From bighorn sheep to California condors, the Grand Canyon offers opportunities to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is also home to diverse plant species that thrive in its unique desert ecosystem.
History & Culture: The Grand Canyon is not just a natural wonder—it’s a cultural treasure. It has been home to Native American tribes for thousands of years and remains a sacred place to many of them today.

Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon

Choosing when to visit the Grand Canyon is essential for planning your trip. While the park is open year-round, each season offers a different experience.

Spring (March–May)

Best for: Moderate temperatures, wildflower blooms, and cooler temperatures.
Ideal activities: Hiking, camping, and sightseeing.

Summer (June–August)

Best for: The ideal for a classic Grand Canyon experience without the Spring crowds.
Ideal activities: Scenic drives, guided tours, and stargazing. Keep in mind that temperatures can soar, especially at the bottom of the canyon, so early starts are recommended.

Fall (September–November)

Best for: Cooler temperatures and beautiful photo opportunities, making it perfect for hiking and camping.
Ideal activities: Hiking, photography, and exploring the canyon’s many viewpoints without the summer heat. Here are 6 reasons to visit the Grand Canyon in the Fall.

Winter (December–February)

Best for: Solitude and winter landscapes. Ideal for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful, snowy experience.
Ideal activities: Winter hiking (with caution), photography, and enjoying the quiet beauty of the canyon.

Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon offers a variety of accommodation options, from campsites to historic lodges. Here’s a quick rundown of where you can stay:

Inside the Park

El Tovar Hotel: A historic lodge right on the South Rim, offering upscale amenities and stunning views.
Bright Angel Lodge: A more budget-friendly option with cozy cabins and easy access to the canyon.
Yavapai Lodge: A comfortable lodge that’s perfect for those who want to be close to the canyon without the high price tag.

Outside the Park

Tusayan: Just outside the South Rim entrance, Tusayan offers a range of hotels, motels, and restaurants, perfect for those who want quick access to the park.
Flagstaff: About an hour and a half drive from the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff offers more urban amenities, including a variety of hotels, dining options, and local attractions.

Camping

Mather Campground (South Rim): Open year-round, this campground is perfect for those who want to sleep under the stars.
Desert View Campground (South Rim): Seasonal and less crowded, this is a great option for those looking for a quieter camping experience.

Getting to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona, and there are several ways to get there. Here is an extensive guide that covers how to get to the Grand Canyon from major cities and nearby destination:

By Car

The most common way to reach the Grand Canyon is by car. If you’re coming from Flagstaff, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to the South Rim. From Las Vegas, it’s a 4.5-hour drive to the West Rim, or about 5 hours to the South Rim. If you’re roadtripping to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive to the South Rim.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN) in Tusayan, just 7 miles from the South Rim. For larger airports, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) are also nearby. The Sedona Airport (SEZ), though small, offers limited regional flights as well!

By Train

The Grand Canyon Railway offers a unique way to reach the South Rim, departing from Williams, Arizona. It’s a scenic train ride that takes you through the beautiful Arizona landscape to the Grand Canyon.

Top 25 Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

Viewpoints & easy scenic time

Mather Point – Your classic “first look” minutes from the Visitor Center.
Yavapai Point & Geology Museum – Huge vistas + bite-size exhibits.
Hopi Point (Hermit Road) – Legendary sunset; arrive early.
Maricopa • Mohave • Powell Points – String them via the Rim Trail.
Desert View Watchtower – 70-ft stone tower and far-east vistas.

Walks & hikes

Rim Trail – Flat/paved segments between shuttle stops; perfect with families.
South Kaibab → Ooh Aah Point (~1.8 mi RT) – Short, steep, massive payoff.
Bright Angel → 1.5 or 3 Mile Resthouse – Shade, seasonal water, classic canyon feel.
Plateau Point (advanced day; ~12.2 mi RT via Bright Angel) – River overlook.
North Rim: Bright Angel Point (seasonal) – Big drama, fewer crowds.

Iconic routes & programs

Hermit Road Scenic Shuttle – Nine overlooks; car-free in peak seasons.
Tusayan Museum & Ruin – Ancestral Puebloan history along Desert View Drive.
Ranger talks & Junior Ranger – Free, engaging, and kid-approved.
Stargazing – Dark-sky magic on clear nights; bring a light jacket.
Grand Canyon Village Historic District – El Tovar, Bright Angel Lodge, Kolb Studio.

Guided experiences (book ahead)

Small-Group Rim Tour – See more with less stress (we handle parking/shuttles).
Sunset Photography Stops – Hit the right points at the right times.
Helicopter / Airplane – Aerial perspective in 25–55 minutes.
Mule Rides – Limited space; strict health/weight rules; reserve early.
Colorado River Rafting – Smooth-water to multi-day whitewater (permit/guide).
Grand Canyon Railway (Williams → South Rim) – Nostalgic arrival.
Skywalk (West Rim – Hualapai) – Glass bridge (separate fees, not NPS).
Shoshone & Lipan Points – Underrated Desert View Drive stunners.
Yaki Point (sunrise; shuttle only) – Wide-open dawn light.
Nearby add-ons: Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon (guided entry; Page, AZ).

South vs North vs West Rim (Which is right for you?)

Rim:	Best For:	Travel Vibe:	Need to Know:
South Rim (NPS)	First-timers, families, year-round services	Shuttles, museums, many overlooks	Arrive early for parking; shuttles make it easy.
North Rim (NPS)	Fewer crowds, alpine feel	Seasonal (roughly mid-May–mid-Oct)	Limited services; check road/weather in shoulder seasons.
West Rim (Hualapai)	Fewer crowVegas day trip + Skywalkds, alpine feel	Tribal lands, separate fees	Not part of the national park; different rules/pricing.

Rim:

Best For:

Travel Vibe:

Need to Know:

South Rim (NPS)

First-timers, families, year-round services

Shuttles, museums, many overlooks

Arrive early for parking; shuttles make it easy.

North Rim (NPS)

Fewer crowds, alpine feel

Seasonal (roughly mid-May–mid-Oct)

Limited services; check road/weather in shoulder seasons.

West Rim (Hualapai)

Fewer crowVegas day trip + Skywalkds, alpine feel

Tribal lands, separate fees

Not part of the national park; different rules/pricing.

Practical Essentials (Read Before You Go)

Entry: Per-vehicle fee or America the Beautiful pass.
Water: Plan ≥1 liter/hour when hiking; fountains can be seasonal.
Shuttles: Free and frequent on the South Rim (Village, Kaibab/Rim, Hermit).
Parking: Visitor Center fills early; park once, shuttle often.
Permits: Needed for overnight backcountry camping and private river trips.

Want day-of updates and an expert plan? Join our guided tour of the Grand Canyon and let us handle logistics while you enjoy the views.

Responsible & Respectful Travel

The Grand Canyon is the ancestral homeland of many Indigenous peoples, including Havasupai, Hualapai, Hopi, Navajo, Zuni, and others. Tread lightly, follow posted guidance, and support local communities when you can.

Additional FAQs About Things to Do in the Grand Canyon

What are the absolute must-see viewpoints?

Mather, Yavapai, Lipan, Desert View, and Grand View.

Is the Skywalk inside Grand Canyon National Park?

No. The Skywalk is at the Hualapai West Rim with separate entrances and policies.

What’s the best short hike for first-timers?

South Kaibab to Ooh Aah Point for dramatic views (steep, unshaded). For low effort, stroll a paved segment of the Rim Trail.

How much time do I need?

A great one-day sampler is possible (especially with a guide); two to three days lets you dive a little deeper into some of your favorite park areas or take on a longer hike.

Do I need a tour to see the Grand Canyon?

No—but going guided maximizes time, reduces stress, and often gets you to better-timed photo spots. Our recommendation is to go with the best – here is the #1 Grand Canyon tour on Tripadvisor

Can I see the Colorado River from the rim?

You can see the river from a large portion of the rim. If you are on the South Rim of the National Park most of the eastern side offers phenomenal views of the river.