Here Are The 10 Best Things You Can Do On A Day Trip To The Grand Canyon In Arizona
By Monica Spencer|Published August 21, 2017
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
The Grand Canyon is a state and national treasure that deserves a multi-day stay to truly experience its beauty. Unfortunately, most of us are short on time so a day trip is a much more reasonable adventure. While you may not want to necessarily drive from, say, Tucson to the canyon and back in a day, planning a day trip from Flagstaff or other northern Arizona towns make this trip possible. Make the most of your precious time by choosing a couple of these experiences the next time you’re at the Grand Canyon.
1. Stick with a handful of scenic points if you don’t plan on spending the entire day walking.
Most new visitors seem to think they can travel to and see the entire South Rim before dinner. Perhaps, but you won’t enjoy the trip much! Instead, stick with just a few viewpoints. A few favorites include Lipan Point, Mather Point, Hopi Point, and the views from both Desert View Watchtower and Hermits Rest.
2. Be sure to add a stop to the Visitor Center if this is your first ever visit.
This historic building not only allows you to see a panoramic view of about 100 miles but also is an impressive sight to see at the edge of the canyon. Designed by Mary Colter in the 1930s, the building’s art and architecture were heavily influenced by regional Indigenous cultures.
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4. Enjoy a meal with the most impressive views at the El Tovar Dining Room.
If you want to be able to glance at the South Rim while eating, you’ll enjoy dining in the El Tovar Hotel’s Dining Room. Check out the hours, dress code, and menus at this link.
5. If your interest is geology, be sure to check out the Trail of Time.
This 1.3-mile interpretive trail from the Yavapai Geology Museum to Grand Canyon Village tells quite the tale about the Grand Canyon’s history that dates back further than you can imagine. Check out the details at this website.
You only have until October 15 to enjoy a trip to this quieter section of the Grand Canyon. Open seasonally starting May 15, the North Rim sees fewer visitors and offers a wilder environment.
7. While at the North Rim, book a one to three-hour mule ride.
If you want to see what riding a mule is like, try a ride along the North Rim or one that ventures further down into the Canyon. Find details about rides here. You can also find similar trips on the South Rim.
8. You can also hop aboard the Grand Canyon Railway for an unforgettable traveling experience.
We’ve featured this option before and it’s perfect if you want to visit the Grand Canyon from Williams without having to drive there. Read more about the experience here.
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9. For the adventurous, walk across Skywalk Bridge at Grand Canyon West.
If you’re visiting from Las Vegas or Arizona’s West Coast, you can opt for a walk across the U-shaped Skywalk Bridge. This is separate from Grand Canyon National Park and gives you a chance to walk 500 or so feet above the canyon on a glass bridge. You can read more about it in this article.
10. End your journey by watching the sunset from your favorite vista.
Talk about the perfect way to cross the Grand Canyon off of your bucket list.
What are some other activities you think are essential for a quick trip to the Grand Canyon? We’d love to hear your suggestions! If you want to check out more incredible things you can do in Arizona, we suggest reading The 9 Coolest Attractions In Arizona That Not Enough People Visit.
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