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Everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon ToursPlan Your Visit
- History
- Grand Canyon West Rim Tours
- Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas
- Grand Canyon National Park Tours
- Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
- West Rim Skywalk
- Grand Canyon Tours
- Photos
- Yavapai Geology Museum
- Grand Canyon Railways
- Grand Canyon Wildlife
- Grand Canyon Itinerary
- Grand Canyon Camping
- Grand Canyon South Rim
- Shoshone Point
- Hopi House
- Grand Canyon North Rim
Contents
Grand Canyon timings
Grand Canyon National Park
- Visitor Center hours: South Rim: 9am to 4pm, North Rim: 8am to 4pm, from mid-May to mid-October
- Bus tour timings: 6am to 7pm
- Hummer tour timings: 9am to 3:30pm (based on option selected)
West Rim
- Visitor Center hours: 8am to 5pm, from October to March & 7am to 7pm, from April to September
- Bus tour timings: 7am to 5pm
- Boat tour timings: 8am to 3pm (based on option selected)
- Floor landing tour timings: 7am to sunset
Book Grand Canyon tours
Where is the Grand Canyon located
Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim & South Rim)
Address (Headquarters): 20 South Entrance Road, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023, United States | Find on Maps
Grand Canyon West (West Rim)
Address: 5001 E Diamond Bar Rd, Peach Springs, AZ 86434, United States | Find on Maps
How to get to the Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim and South Rim)
- By bus
Greyhound, FlixBus, Flagstaff Amtrak buses, and Arizona Shuttle are the three main operators that offer bus services to Grand Canyon National Park. The easiest way is to reach Flagstaff and take a direct bus to the canyon. The buses operate daily, and the frequency varies depending on the season. The trip takes approximately 2 hours.
Nearest station: Grand Canyon National Park Visitor Center (South Rim), Maswik Lodge
- By train
The Grand Canyon Railway is the only train that goes to Grand Canyon National Park. It leaves daily from Williams, AZ, and drops you off at the Grand Canyon Railway Depot in Grand Canyon Village.
Nearest station: Williams Depot, Williams, AZ 86046, United States | Find on Maps
- By car
From Flagstaff: Take Columbus Avenue to reach US-180 W, then turn right to continue on AZ-64 N to reach Grand Canyon National Park.
From Las Vegas: Take Mesquite Avenue to merge with US-93 S and continue till you find exit 165 toward AZ-64 N. Turn left to continue on AZ-64 N to reach Grand Canyon National Park.
Grand Canyon West (West Rim)
- By bus
FlixBus is the only operator that provides bus services to the West Rim from Las Vegas. The other option is to book a bus tour that will provide you with round-trip transfers.
- By car
From Flagstaff: Start from S San Francisco St. and onto Historic Rte 66 leading you to I-40BL W, then take exit 51 for Stockton Hill Rd and continue till you take the right onto Pierce Ferry Rd, then take the right onto Diamond Bar Rd, and at the roundabout, continue straight onto E Diamond Bar Rd to reach Grand Canyon West.
From Las Vegas: Take Mesquite Avenue to merge with US-93 S, then turn left onto Pierce Ferry Rd, and take the right onto Diamond Bar Rd, and at the roundabout, continue straight onto E Diamond Bar Rd to reach Grand Canyon West.
Know before you go
Facilities
Accessibility
Visiting with family
Rules and regulations
Dining
Stay
- Restrooms: There are restrooms available at all visitor centers across the Grand Canyon, restaurants, and major viewpoints
- Water stations: Water refill stations are available in all high-traffic areas and visitor centers at the Grand Canyon
- Shopping: There are souvenir stores, gift shops, and a gallery at the canyon
- First aid: The Grand Canyon Clinic is located at the South Rim and offers first aid, urgent care, and medical services
- ATMs: ATMs are available at Market Plaza, Yavapai Lodge, and the Maswik Lodge at Grand Canyon National Park
- Wheelchair-accessible: Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and the Desert Watchtower are wheelchair-accessible viewpoints with paved roads in the South Rim. The Rim Trail is also accessible via wheelchairs. The Bright Angel viewpoint in the North Rim has paved roads that can be accessed with a wheelchair, but the terrain is more rugged. The West Rim Skywalk and most areas in Grand Canyon West are not wheelchair-accessible.
- Shuttles: Shuttle buses in the South Rim are wheelchair-accessible.
- Service animals: Service animals are allowed at the Grand Canyon in all visitor areas.
- Wheelchair availability: The South Rim Visitor Center offers wheelchairs for use, free of charge, but on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Accessible restrooms: The South Rim, Grand Canyon West, and the Grand Canyon Railway all offer wheelchair-accessible restrooms.
- The South Rim offers the most family-friendly experience with multiple viewpoints, picnic areas, easy-to-navigate trails, restaurants, and stay options.
- West Rim has attractions like the Skywalk, but the viewpoints do not have guardrails. There are restaurants, souvenir stores, and many options for round-trip tours from Las Vegas to make the region’s exploration more kid-friendly.
- Pets: Only service animals are allowed in the Grand Canyon. You cannot bring your pet with you for all the experiences.
- Drones: Strictly prohibited in all sections of the canyon. A special permit is required to be able to use a drone.
- Hiking: Carry a reusable water bottle, and refill at the water stations available at all major trails and viewpoints. Follow the trail, and make sure you’re dressed comfortably with proper footwear, gear, and clothing based on the weather conditions.
- Maintain the Grand Canyon’s trails and viewpoints: Avoid littering and keep any waste with you while you are exploring the canyon.
- Wildlife safety: The Grand Canyon is home to many species of wildlife, from mountain lions and bison to sheep, squirrels, and deer, as well as many reptiles and birds. Do not approach or feed them if you spot them on your trails.
- No collecting: Removal of rocks, plants, or any artifacts is strictly prohibited across the canyon.
South Rim
- El Tovar Dining Room: Located in the historic El Tovar Hotel with breathtaking views of the canyon. Reservations are highly recommended.
- Bright Angel Lodge: Casual dining options are offered in two locations inside the lodge, with southwestern food at the Arizona Room, and light to-go snacks at the Bright Angel Fountain.
- Market Plaza: You can find quick bites and grab-and-go meals, or shop for groceries at the Market.
North Rim (mid-May to mid-October)
- Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room: Rustic restaurant with spectacular views of the North Rim. Open for breakfast and dinner service.
- Deli in the Pines: Offers casual dining with pizzas, sandwiches, coffee, and snacks.
West Rim
- Skywalk Café: Located at Grand Canyon West, the café offers sandwiches, nachos, burgers, and other quick snacks.
- Hualapai Ranch Dining Hall: You can get classic American BBQ-style meals with sides.
South Rim
Budget:
- Mather Campground | Find on Maps
- Maswik Lodge | Find on Maps
Mid-range:
- Bright Angel Lodge | Find on Maps
- Kachina Lodge | Find on Maps
Luxury:
- El Tovar Hotel | Find on Maps
- Thunderbird Lodge | Find on Maps
North Rim
Budget:
- North Rim Campground | Find on Maps
- Kaibab Lodge | Find on Maps
Mid-range:
- Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim | Find on Maps
- Phantom Ranch | Find on Maps
West Rim
Budget:
- Hualapai LodgeGrand | Find on Maps
- Canyon Glamping Resort | Find on Maps
Mid-range:
- Cabins at Grand Canyon West | Find on Maps
- Grand Canyon Western Ranch | Find on Maps
Frequently asked questions about visiting the Grand Canyon
What should I pack for my visit to the Grand Canyon?
Pack according to the season! Comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), a reusable water bottle, and layered clothing are key. Even in summer, early mornings and evenings can be cool, and winter months have snowfall.
How long should I spend at the Grand Canyon?
A day trip lets you see the highlights, but if you want to hike, explore multiple viewpoints, or take a guided tour, you should consider staying overnight.
What are the least crowded times to visit the Grand Canyon?
Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter. Visiting on weekdays, especially outside of summer, also helps you avoid large crowds.
Can I take public transportation to the Grand Canyon?
Public transportation options are limited, but you can take a Greyhound or FlixBus to nearby cities like Flagstaff and Williams, then use shuttle services or rent a car to reach the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway is another scenic option from Williams, AZ.
Is there a shuttle service inside the Grand Canyon?
Yes, Grand Canyon National Park has a free shuttle system with multiple routes connecting visitor centers, lodges, and major viewpoints.
What are the best things to do at the Grand Canyon?
Popular activities include hiking, scenic viewpoints, helicopter tours, rafting the Colorado River, mule rides, and visiting historic sites like Desert View Watchtower.
Are guided tours available at the Grand Canyon?
Yes! Options include bus tours, helicopter rides, rafting trips, and Hummer tours. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the geology, history, and wildlife of the canyon.
What safety precautions should I take when visiting the Grand Canyon?
Stay hydrated, dress appropriately for the weather, stick to marked trails, and avoid getting too close to the edge of cliffs. If hiking, download the map, let someone know your plans, and carry plenty of water.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Grand Canyon?
Yes, you can bring your own food. Restaurants and snack shops are also located at visitor centers and lodges.
What are the best places to stay near the Grand Canyon?
The South Rim has the most lodging options, ranging from campgrounds to luxury lodges. The West Rim has limited accommodations, while the North Rim offers seasonal stay options.