It's awe-inspiring, its captivating, it's visited by 6 million people a year, it's photographed from many angles, and it's one of the wonders of the world. What travel destination is this? Wanna guess?
It's the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, U.S.A.
If you have the opportunity to see this incredible canyon please put it on your bucket list. You won't be disappointed. On Saturday, April 30, 2022, I made my dream come true when I got off the Amtrak train in Flagstaff, Arizona at 4:20 am in the morning. I was heading back to the Midwest after visiting my friend for several days in Desert Hot Springs, near Palm Springs, California and the Amtrak train was going right through Flagstaff. I had booked a motel near the train station days earlier as well as a shuttle to and from the Grand Canyon because things book up fast, especially during late spring and summer, and of course weekends. If Flagstaff is your destination to the Grand Canyon there's a shuttle that will take you directly to Maswik Lodge at the South Rim adjacent to Grand Canyon Village. It's called Groome Transportation. Bookings can be done on-line or by calling 520- 795-6771.
The ultimate way to experience the Grand Canyon National Park is to spend a couple of nights at one of the historic hotels in the park. This way you can see the Grand Canyon at sunrise, sunset, and throughout the day. However, if you're the adventurous type who doesn't want to spend lots of money for a Grand Canyon vacation there's other ways to experience the magic of the Grand Canyon. You can camp in the canyon wilderness, or stay at a budget style hotel outside the park.
Best Place to Stay at Grand Canyon: El Tavor Hotel!
El Tavor Hotel is a jewel. This historic hotel is located directly on the rim of the Grand Canyon and has been in operation since 1905. Many famous people have stayed here and for good reason. Relax in the lobby, have a delicious meal in the dining room, shop in the full stocked gift shop, sit in a cozy rocking chair on the porch outdoors and feel connected to the majestic canyon. Located at 9 Village Loop Drive, El Tavor Hotel is one of the priciest places to stay in the park but its unique charm of a cross between a Swiss Chalet and a Norwegian Villa make it a stand out. The hotel was built of local limestone and Oregon pine for a cost of $250,000. Guests of El Tavor Hotel have included President Bill Clinton, Albert Einstein, Theodore Roosevelt, and Oprah Winfrey. El Tavor has 78 rooms and rooms book quickly during high season.
Williams, Arizona is the gateway to the Grand Canyon. If you're a fan of Route 66, you can explore more than six blocks of historic buildings and shops. There's also plenty of lodging to choose from.and most of them are right on the famous Route 66. The best part about staying in Williams, Arizona is the opportunity to take the iconic Grand Canyon Railway. Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel has been taking passengers on a delightful journey from Williams to the Grand Canyon. You will see terrain ranging from high desert to prairie, to pine forests from the windows while being entertained by Old West characters and musicians who'll entertain you on your train journey before you make your final departure at the South Rim.
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is a 298 room hotel right next to the train station. Room Rates range from $168.00 to $200.00 per night. Amenities include a fitness center, indoor pool and hot tub.
You can enjoy the North Rim, South Rim, and West Rim. The South Rim is open year round, attracts more tourists, and has the popular Grand Canyon Village. The air at the Grand Canyon is among the cleanest in the United States. The elevation of the South Rim is about 7.000f feet above sea level. The beautiful Colorado River flows through the canyon. Combined with wind and rain, it shapes over time.
The best time of year to see the Grand Canyon is between April to June when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall low.
The South Rim free shuttle bus service is an excellent way to see some of the best spots of the canyon. The buses operate in and around the South Rim and take you to scenic overlooks where vehicles are not permitted.
Have plenty of water with you at the Grand Canyon to stay hydrated. It can get very hot.
The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular trail. Spectacular views as well as shade. Bathrooms and water are available on Bright Angel Trail about every 1.5 miles.
The Trail of Time is a relatively flat 4.56 kilometer long paved walk. It allows visitors to focus on Grand Canyon's vistas and rocks. There are benches along the way to sit on. This hike is thoroughly enjoyable.
City Life:
If you're yearning for city life, Flagstaff is about 80 miles away from the South Rim. Flagstaff is a friendly college town perfect for walking and exploring. There are several options here for dining and lodging. A stop at the Flagstaff Visitor Center adjacent to the Amtrak Train Station on Route 66 is a wonderful place to get information on the area. The population of Flagstaff is just over 73.000.
Places to Stay in Flagstaff:
Motel DuBeau Travelers Inn has some of the best rates in town. Convenient to the Amtrak train station this cozy motel was one of the first motels in America and has been in business since 1929.
Hotel Monte Vista is a classic hotel that's supposedly haunted. It's a historic hotel with a restaurant and bar.
Weatherford Hotel has 17 boutique rooms, a restaurant, and three lively pubs/bars.
Where to Eat:
Tourist Home is a homey kind of place that opens at 6:00 am. Enjoy breakfast meals, bakery goods, salads, sandwiches and soup. Awesome place to eat and relax. There's craft coffee and cocktails available too. One of my favorite places in Flagstaff.
Na D Li BBQ and Korean Food is a family owned restaurant serving authentic Korean food. Mouthwatering dishes in a relaxing environment.
Delhi Palace is known for good quality Indian food. Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly.
SoSoba is popular with college students. A noddle shop with good drinks, food, and service.
Pato Thai Cuisine gets busy at lunch and dinner. Enjoy popular dishes like Pad Thai, Pad See Ewe, Tom Yum Soup, and Thai Fried Rice.
Tinderbox Kitchen serves contemporary American comfort food and enjoyed by locals and tourists.
