Destination Spotlight
Awesome Things To Do At The Grand Canyon National Park
Few places leave visitors speechless quite like the Grand Canyon National Park. Stretching 277 miles across northern Arizona, this natural wonder offers breathtaking overlooks, unforgettable adventures, fascinating history, and plenty of opportunities to make lifelong memories. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore even more, here’s your guide to some of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon.
One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to visit the South Rim or the North Rim.
South Rim
The South Rim is the most popular destination and is open year-round. It’s the easiest to reach from Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Sedona. Here you’ll find:
- Numerous scenic overlooks
- Visitor centers and museums
- Historic buildings
- Restaurants and lodging
- Shuttle buses for easy transportation
If it’s your first visit, the South Rim is the ideal place to begin.
North Rim
The North Rim offers a completely different experience. Open seasonally (typically mid-May through mid-October), it sits at a higher elevation with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Visitors who enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and a quieter atmosphere often prefer the North Rim.
Take in the Incredible Scenic Views
The Grand Canyon’s overlooks each provide a unique perspective of this incredible landscape.
Mather Point
Located near the South Rim Visitor Center, Mather Point is often the first stop for visitors—and for good reason. The sweeping canyon views are spectacular any time of day.
Hermit’s Rest
Drive or ride the shuttle to Hermit’s Rest, where dramatic canyon vistas and historic architecture combine to create one of the park’s most charming destinations.
Desert View Watchtower
The Desert View Watchtower offers panoramic views of the canyon and one of the best opportunities to see the winding Colorado River far below.
Sunrise and Sunset
Watching the canyon change colors at sunrise or sunset is one of the park’s most unforgettable experiences. Soft morning light and vibrant evening skies create incredible photo opportunities.
Grand Canyon Skywalk
Located on the Grand Canyon West Skywalk (outside the national park), this horseshoe-shaped glass bridge extends over the canyon, allowing visitors to literally walk above the canyon floor.
Discover the Canyon’s History
Beyond its stunning scenery, the Grand Canyon has a rich geological and cultural history.
Yavapai Geology Museum
Learn how millions of years of geological activity shaped the canyon through interactive exhibits and panoramic viewing windows.
Tusayan Ruins and Museum
Explore the remains of an ancestral Puebloan village dating back hundreds of years. The museum provides fascinating insight into the Native peoples who once called this region home.
Explore Grand Canyon Village
No visit is complete without spending time in the historic Grand Canyon Village.
Highlights include:
- Browsing the main Visitor Center
- Shopping for unique souvenirs
- Visiting the historic Hopi House, known for its authentic Native American arts and crafts
- Exploring Verkamp’s Visitor Center to learn about the area’s early tourism history
It’s the perfect place to find gifts, local artwork, books, and keepsakes to remember your adventure.
Experience Outdoor Adventure
If you’re looking for more than sightseeing, the Grand Canyon offers adventures for every activity level.
Ride a Mule
One of the park’s most iconic experiences is riding a mule along canyon trails. Guided tours offer a unique way to experience the canyon’s dramatic scenery.
Rent a Bike
Several paved routes along the South Rim are perfect for cycling, allowing visitors to cover more ground while enjoying incredible views.
Raft the Colorado River
Whether you choose a half-day float trip or a multi-day whitewater adventure, rafting the Colorado River offers a completely different perspective of the canyon.
Hike Bright Angel Trail
Bright Angel Trail is one of the park’s most famous hiking trails. Even hiking a short distance below the rim rewards visitors with incredible views. Those attempting longer hikes should bring plenty of water and be prepared for steep elevation changes.
Where to Eat
After a day of exploring, you’ll definitely have worked up an appetite.
Some visitor favorites include:
- El Tovar Dining Room — A historic dining experience featuring Southwestern cuisine inside the famous El Tovar Hotel.
- Fred Harvey Burger — A casual stop for burgers, fries, shakes, and quick meals.
Make Memories That Last
Whether you’re watching the sunrise from Mather Point, hiking below the rim, browsing historic Grand Canyon Village, or simply taking in one of the world’s most incredible natural landscapes, every visit to the Grand Canyon offers something unforgettable.
Before you leave, don’t forget to pick up a souvenir that will help you remember your adventure for years to come. A beautifully designed Grand Canyon mug makes the perfect reminder of breathtaking views, unforgettable hikes, and one of America’s greatest national treasures.
