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Not sure what to do at the Grand Canyon? We've got you covered
Grand Canyon ToursThings to do
- Grand Canyon
- History
- Wildlife
- Yavapai Geology Museum
- Things to Do
- Hermit's Rest
- Viewpoints
- Grand Canyon Village
- Weather
- Hiking
- Hopi House
- Camping
- Photos
- Shoshone Point
- Plan Your Visit
- Timings
- Directions
- Entrances
- Restaurants
- Facts
- Map
- Itinerary
- Hotels
- Rim to Rim
- Grand Canyon Railway
- Shopping
- West Rim Skywalk
- Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon National Park Tours
- Grand Canyon Hummer Tours
- Grand Canyon Airplane Tours
- Grand Canyon Tours
- Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon Boat Tours
- Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
- Grand Canyon West Rim Tours
- Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas
- Grand Canyon North Rim
- Grand Canyon South Rim
Contents
South Rim: The classic gateway to Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Village
Right in the heart of the South Rim, Grand Canyon Village is the perfect place to start your adventure. It’s got a little bit of everything—historic buildings, cozy shops, and restaurants with amazing canyon views. You can take a scenic walk, pop into a museum, or check out local art in one of the galleries when you need a break from the trails.
Explore Grand Canyon Village
Hikes
Hiking is hands down one of the best ways to experience the canyon. The Rim Trail is perfect if you’re looking for an easy, mostly flat walk, plus, you can hop on and off the park shuttle along the way. For a more challenging trek, the Bright Angel Trail takes you deep into the canyon. If you're after epic scenery right from the start, the South Kaibab Trail delivers. But be ready for a steep, exposed hike with no shade or water.
Explore hiking at Grand Canyon
Viewpoints
If it’s your first time at the Grand Canyon, Mather Point and Yavapai Point are must-sees. Head to Mather Point early for an unforgettable sunrise, then swing by Yavapai Point for panoramic views and cool geology exhibits that help you understand what you’re looking at. These spots really show off the canyon’s wow factor.
Explore Grand Canyon's viewpoints
Helicopter tours
Take to the skies on a thrilling Grand Canyon helicopter tour for unmatched aerial views of the South Rim and the Colorado River. It's one of the most unique things to do in Grand Canyon and perfect for photography lovers.
Find helicopter tours to Grand Canyon
Ranger-led talks and walks
Want to dive a little deeper into what makes the Grand Canyon so special? Join one of the ranger-led talks or walks. These programs are a fun way to learn about the canyon’s geology, wildlife, and Native American history—straight from the experts who know it best.
Mule rides
For a classic Grand Canyon experience, hop on a mule ride along the South Rim. Guided by pros, you’ll follow historic trails and see the canyon from a whole new perspective. It’s a bucket-list adventure and definitely one of the more unique ways to explore the park.
Dark Sky Park
At night, the South Rim transforms into a stargazer’s paradise. Designated as a Dark Sky Park, it’s ideal for viewing constellations, planets, and meteor showers—especially during ranger-hosted astronomy events.
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North Rim: A secluded wilderness escape
Grand Canyon Lodge
Get cozy at the North Rim’s only lodge, where rustic cabins come with unbeatable canyon views just steps from the door. Grab a bite at the lodge dining room and watch the sunset paint the cliffs.
Hikes
Ready to hit the trail? The North Kaibab Trail offers a fun expedition into the canyon’s depths, while the Bright Angel Point Trail is a quick walk with big-time views. These hikes are favorites for anyone looking to explore the North Rim on foot.
Viewpoints
Point Imperial is the highest viewpoint in the park, and Cape Royal is a scenic drive away, perfect for catching sunrise or sunset. These peaceful overlooks are ideal for soaking it all in, or snapping the perfect photo.
Wildlife watching
Spot mule deer, bison, and even the elusive Kaibab squirrel in this quieter region of the park. Wildlife watching is a real highlight on the North Rim, thanks to its peaceful, less crowded vibe. Visit during sunrise or sunset when the animals are most active.
Explore wildlife at Grand Canyon0
West Rim: Adventure & culture beyond the Park
Grand Canyon Skywalk
Step out 70 feet beyond the edge of the canyon on the glass-bottomed Skywalk bridge that is suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience and easily one of the most exciting things to do at the West Rim.
Why you should go on a Skywalk tour
Aerial tours
Want jaw-dropping views without the hike? Helicopter and airplane tours from Las Vegas or nearby spots give you a front-row seat to the West Rim’s epic landscapes, including Eagle Point and Guano Point.
Find all aerial tours to the West Rim here
Hualapai Point
Soak in the culture at Hualapai Point, where you can explore tribal traditions, shop for handmade gifts, and grab a bite with a view. It’s the perfect cultural stop to pair with your Skywalk adventure.
Viewpoints
Don’t miss Eagle Point, home to a striking rock formation that looks just like an eagle in flight. Then head to Guano Point for panoramic canyon views and a short loop hike with mesmerizing photo ops.
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Things to do nearby
Hoover Dam
On your way to or from Las Vegas, Hoover Dam is a fascinating stop packed with history and engineering marvels. Take a tour inside the dam, walk along the top, and enjoy views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River.
Antelope Canyon
Famous for its wave-like walls and light beams, Antelope Canyon is a must-see slot canyon near Page, Arizona. Guided tours take you through narrow sandstone passages that are perfect for stunning photos and a truly otherworldly experience.
Horseshoe Bend
Just a short drive from Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend offers one of the most iconic river views in the Southwest. A quick hike takes you to an overlook where the Colorado River curves dramatically around a rock outcropping. Opt for tours that include Horseshoe Bend in the itinerary to combine it with your Antelope Canyon visit.
Frequently asked questions about things to do at Grand Canyon
What are the must-see attractions at the Grand Canyon?
Don’t miss Mather Point, Yavapai Geology Museum, and Desert View Watchtower. These viewpoints offer some of the most iconic views of the canyon, especially at sunrise and sunset. For something unforgettable, check out the Grand Canyon Skywalk at Eagle Point, hike the Bright Angel Trail, or ride the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes, the Grand Canyon offers various guided tours, including helicopter tours, mule rides, pontoon boat rides, and Hummer tours. These tours provide in-depth knowledge and unique perspectives of the canyon's geology, history, and ecology.
Is biking allowed in the Grand Canyon?
Yes, biking is permitted on designated trails, especially around the South Rim. Grand Canyon Bike Tours offers rentals and guided tours, allowing you to explore the park on wheels.
Can I take a helicopter tour of the Canyon?
Absolutely. Helicopter tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the canyon. Some tours even include landings on the canyon floor or combine with boat rides on the Colorado River.
Can I camp inside the Grand Canyon?
Yes, there are campgrounds like Mather Campground in the South Rim and the North Rim Campground. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit.
Are there any night-time activities?
The Grand Canyon is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing. The park often hosts Night Sky Programs, where visitors can learn about constellations and celestial events.
