Our Favorite Things To Do in Grand Canyon

Okay, we know what you’re thinking — why do you need to do anything in Grand Canyon, Arizona, other than see the Grand Canyon?

Yes, while this magnificent geological wonder is the primary draw to the surrounding towns of Williams, Seligman and Tusayan, if you’re planning a full vacation around the Canyon, you’ll want to have a few other things on your itinerary. Get your sightseeing, tours and rim hikes out of the way and then see what else this beautiful region has to offer.

Here are our top recommendations for things to do around the Grand Canyon once you’ve had your fill of the great outdoors.

1. The Historic Route 66 Museum

Part museum, part gift shop, the Historic Route 66 Museum in Williams, Arizona, features Route 66-related memorabilia and indigenous artifacts. Take a look around at the various displays, snap some photos with the bison and bears, and pick up a few souvenirs to take home. Reviewers consistently rank the museum as one of the top places to stop in Williams, both for the wide array of merchandise available, as well as the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor.com

2. The Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway has been delighting visitors since 1901. Buy a ticket, take a ride and enjoy the scenery, as well as the tales and entertainment offered up by the enthusiastic staff. Each lovingly restored passenger car boasts its own history. The railway also operates its own hotel, which is similarly railway-themed and designed to look like a 1900s train depot. If you love the idea of exploring the Old West via rail car, you might just want to book a stay after purchasing your train tickets.

Photo courtesy of https://www.thetrain.com/the-train/classes/first-c...

3. Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Adventure

Don’t really like the idea of coming up on some of Arizona’s wildlife while out in nature, alone on a hike, but would still like the chance to get up close and personal with some of the native animals? Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Adventure may just be the perfect experience for you and your family. The facility offers multiple ticket options, for drive-thru tours and walking tours. There’s also a restaurant on-site. Bears and wolves, bison and bobcats await, alongside dozens of their friends, large and small.

Want to see a little of what you’re in for, before your arrival? Check out the online Grizzly Cams for a sneak peek at the animal habitats.

Photo courtesy of https://bearizona.com/our-animals/adult-black-bear

Need More?

Need more help planning your trip to the Grand Canyon? If you’re still looking for the best spots to stay, dine and shop, in and around the Grand Canyon, including in Williams, Seligman or Tusayan, check out theDiscovery Map guide to all things Grand Canyon. We have the top recommendations for hotels, restaurants, shops and services, all at your disposal, so you can easily and seamlessly plan your next vacation.