Grand Canyon Adventures?

My family has always wanted to visit the Grand Canyon in the western United States. I’ve mapped out what would be (for us) a perfect itinerary. We’re checking our calendar now for when we can make this amazing trip happen!

What Is Important for Us?

It didn’t take long to realize this was an important question as we looked at all the options for visiting the Grand Canyon. Two of the most popular choices for families to consider are between staying in Las Vegas, Nevada, and seeing the Grand Canyon from the north rim or staying along the south rim in Arizona.

While visiting Las Vegas is a whole different bucket list item for us, we quickly realized the south rim in Arizona is what checks off the most boxes for us for this possible trip. Staying along the south rim has more of a western feel. It’s quieter and more relaxed. There are plenty of attractions, but they’re not exactly the type of attractions you’ll find in Las Vegas. We love science and history, and both of those things are ripe along the southern rim.

What Will We Find There?

Knowing which part of the Grand Canyon we wanted to visit, now we had to choose whether we wanted to stay inside the national park…or not. The hotels inside the park are historic and amazing, but there is so much outside the park that we also want to experience. That’s how we knew that, for us, outside the park was best.

We know we’ll want modern accommodation as well as a swimming pool. Because of these preferences, we plan to stay in Flagstaff, Arizona. This is a short drive to the Grand Canyon itself but also close to other area attractions.

With Williams, Arizona, nearby our family will be able to enjoy the Grand Canyon Railway. This attraction looks so fun! We will leave our car in Williams, and take the enclosed train into the Grand Canyon National Park. There’s even a train robbery performance while you ride!

Also found in Williams, Arizona, is part of the historic Route 66. We’re considering taking some time to follow this route all the way to California…but we’ll see. For now, we plan to shop at the fun shops and popular spots in the town for those wanting photos and memories in the area. We’re also looking at Bearizona Wildlife Park, a drive-thru safari attraction filled with various animals that kids love.

Another spot we’re considering is the Lowell Observatory. It was founded in 1894, and it was from this spot Pluto was discovered in 1930. You can also consider other options like catching a helicopter tour of the canyon or doing a guided donkey ride.

The Grand Canyon Itself!

When we do make it into the Grand Canyon itself, we know we’ll find adventure. We plan to check out the park ranger programs for kids. Our children will be able to take part in a scavenger hunt type event that’ll keep them on the lookout for various animal and plant species throughout the canyon.

We also plan to check out bike rental through Bright Angel Bikes right in the park. If there’s time and the weather is good, we’ll head for popular hiking trails for kids include the Grand Canyon Rim Trail or the Yavapai Point Trail.

I also hope to check out the stars at night, which seem amazing.

If visiting the Grand Canyon interests you, contact me today to get some options set up!