100 Cool Ways to Enjoy the Grand Canyon • Traveling with Purpose

Did you know that Grand Canyon National Park has already celebrated their 100th Anniversary of becoming a National Park? Here are 100 ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon no matter when you visit in the months and years to come. Tragically, in the summer of 2025, much of the lodging, visitor center, trees, nature, and service buildings were destroyed by a mega-wildfire at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, so for now, this will focus on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park until services are restored at the North Rim. I’m sure you’ll find things to do and places to go that you never knew about at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

2025 Grand Canyon [North Rim only] Closed Indefinitely

On July 4, 2025, a lightning strike ignited the devastating Dragon Bravo Wildfire in northern Arizona near the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. It was initially managed with a “confine and contain” approach [as is often the case with forest fires]. The blaze quickly intensified under a deadly blend of high temperatures, low humidity, and strong gusty winds, eventually expanding into a megafire. At the time of this blog update, the fire has scorched over 130,000 acres (52,820 ha).

On July 12–13, the fire rapidly swept through the developed area, destroying the historic Grand Canyon Lodge—the only overnight lodging [besides campgrounds] on the North Rim—along with dozens of cabins, employee housing, visitor facilities, a wastewater treatment plant, and the North Rim Visitor Center. Safety measures—including evacuations of guests, staff, and inner canyon hikers—ensured there were no injuries or fatalities. The fiery destruction has forced the North Rim to remain closed for the remainder of the 2025 season, leaving the fate of rebuilding uncertain

I do all I can to provide up-to-date information, but sometimes things change on the spur of the moment. Be sure to visit the Grand Canyon National Park website here for the latest “Alerts in Effect” and information about any visiting restrictions, construction projects, fires, or park announcements.

I’ve lived in Arizona for over 20 years and loved visiting the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, North Rim, and even nearby Havasupai Canyon (not actually part of the National Park). This is a region for anyone who loves spectacular beauty, history, science, nature, quiet, and exploring the outdoors. I thought I’d share some of the many ways to enjoy the park. I hope this helps you plan your next trip there. This is just the beginning of the list of reasons how and why you should visit this gorgeous natural wonder.

Know the Park Rules Before You Go

Review the park and trail maps so you’re prepared to know where to go to hike the trails in the park around the canyon

Take your favorite pet out for a walk, but be sure to follow the rules to keep pets safe and wildlife.

It’s very important to remember that you’re intruding on the homes of wildlife when you visit most National Parks. It’s so exciting to see wild animals like huge bison, deer, and even tiny chipmunks, but know the rules of wildlife viewing before you arrive. This keeps you, your family, and the animals safe from harm.

Plan ahead for visitors with accessibility needs with the GCNP Accessibility Guide.

Bring your camera and plan the best spots to capture the spectacular views. Be sure to keep your eye on the path and keep a proper distance from the rim and wildlife for your own safety

If you want a memento, DON’T steal from nature – stop and shop at one of the bookstores or gift shops

Desert View Drive – East Entrance – South Rim

For visitors coming into the park via the East Entrance, a stop at Desert View provides the first views of Grand Canyon, but everyone should visit the Desert View Settlement

Climb 85 steps for a 360 degree view from the Desert View Watchtower

Enjoy a picnic lunch along the 25-mile Desert View Drive

Take time to smell the flowers. There are approximately 650 types of wildflowers found in Grand Canyon National Park. Throughout spring and summer, lots of pretty flora are in bloom, including yellow ragweed, pink toadflax, red Indian paintbrush, and purple Rocky Mountain Iris.

Explore the Park on Foot, Bike, Raft, Train, Mule, or Helicopter

The South Rim is the most popular part of the park. It receives 10 times more visitors than the North Rim. If you’re visiting there, you’ll have access to the park’s Shuttle Bus services. Check here for schedules and updates.

Grand Canyon South Rim Shuttles

Four shuttle bus routes are in service from May 24, through September 5, 2025. Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route, right, travels to S. Kaibab Trailhead, outstanding scenic views at Yaki Point, and Yavapai Geology Museum. Village (Blue) Route, center, connects Visitor Center with lodges, campgrounds, Backcountry Information Center, and Market Plaza (general store and post office). Hermit Road (Red) Route travels a 7-mile scenic road with spectacular overlooks. Tusayan (Purple) Route serves gateway town.

National Park Mobile App

If you’re handy with your smartphone, the best way to access up-to-date information when you’re in the park is with the National Park Service App. The National Park Service Mobile App is a great tool for planning your trip, then it can be used as a guide during your visit. You can download the maps and content from Grand Canyon National Park for offline use. It’s especially handy if you’re exploring remote areas or concerned about data limits. Free and available now.

If you prefer going analog, then any of these

Get a Birds-Eye View of the Grand Canyon

If you’re visiting the South Rim, get a bird’s eye view on one of these Grand Canyon aerial tours.

Step Back in Time on the Grand Canyon Railway

Take a historic train ride from Williams, AZ to the South Rim of the Canyon. Grand Canyon Railway trains offer a variety of options, including snacks, drinks, luxury first-class cars, serenading cowboys, and even an occasional train heist. Train rides to the park are available year-round. You can book a day trip to the Canyon or go one way then spend the night and ride the train back from the South Rim a day or so later. Check out their magical Polar Express Train Rides available around the holidays too.

Experience the natural beauty on a guided tour by foot, bike, mule, horse, van, jeep, bus, whitewater raft, plane, or helicopter

Take your high-clearance vehicle to the remote Toroweap/Tuweep area of the canyon.

Make a reservation to experience an iconic mule trip down into the Grand Canyon before they’re discontinued.

Explore Epic River Rafting on the Colorado River

There are so many awesome ways to experience the Colorado River winding through the Grand Canyon! If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, whitewater rafting is absolutely incredible – you can choose anything from single-day trips to epic multi-day adventures where you camp under the stars. Not ready for the rapids? No problem! There are also smooth-water float trips that let you soak in the scenery without getting your heart racing. For those who want to dip their toes in (literally), you can hike down trails like the Bright Angel Trail to reach the river for a quick visit, or even take a mule ride if you want someone else to do the walking. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, some people kayak or canoe sections of the river, though you’ll definitely want some serious experience for that.

The cool thing is that each way of exploring gives you a totally different perspective on this amazing place. On a multi-day raft trip, you’ll get to see hidden waterfalls, ancient Native American ruins, and side canyons that most people never experience – plus you’ll have guides who know all the best stories about the area’s geology and history. The shorter day trips are perfect if you want that “wow” factor without committing to camping, and hiking down to the river gives you bragging rights for making it on your own two feet (though trust me, the hike back up is no joke!). Whether you want to spend 20 minutes or 20 days on the water, there’s a Colorado River adventure that’s perfect for your style, budget, and comfort level.

Here are some offerings on the Grand Canyon website for options to explore the canyon with a float on a river raft for a river trip on the Colorado River

river rafting with your grandchildren for 6 days!.

The Non-profit organization, Road Scholar, is the world’s largest and most innovative creator of experiential learning opportunities. Road Scholar offers a chance to take your grandkids on the adventure of a lifetime – whitewater rafting down the Colorado River right through the heart of the Grand Canyon! You’ll have expert guides helping you tackle some seriously fun rapids, plus you’ll get to explore and learn cool stuff about the canyon’s rocks, wildlife, and the Native American tribes who’ve called this place home. And hey, what’s a camping trip without roasting marshmallows and swapping stories around the fire? It’s going to be an amazing week you’ll both remember forever!

Human-Powered Transportation at the Canyon

For those who are in great shape and well prepared – Hike rim-to-rim-to-rim. Wow!

Grab 12 to 29 of your favorite friends and hike (or run) rim-to-river-to-rim – but be sure to buy a permit for the group

Bicycles at the Grand Canyon

Cover more terrain at the Canyon on two wheels. Check out these excellent Bike Routes

Can’t bring your bike? Rent a street bike of any size, road bikes, and bike trailers at Bright Angel Bicycles. Do you have limited mobility? Rent a wheelchair at Bright Angel Bicycles

Discover Great Places to Eat and Drink

South Rim Dining Options

One of the most iconic and popular dining experiences at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is a meal at the El Tovar Dining Room – Located inside the El Tovar Hotel overlooking the edge of the Rim. They offer Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Dinner reservations are recommended due to its popularity. Make at El Tovar dining reservations online here or call 928-638-2631.

Here’s a full list of the eateries available at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Savor a meal that tastes better, just because of the views.

Discover new craft brews and Southwestern cuisine at Yavapai Tavern. You’ll find it inside Yavapai Lodge – 11 Yavapai Lodge Road at Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Pick up your morning coffee at Grand Canyon Restaurant. Order your picnic food and drinks in advance, so they’re ready to pick up when you arrive at the Grand Canyon Restaurant at Mather Point, 10 South Entrance Road.

Learn About the History in the Park

The journey of national protected status for the Grand Canyon began in the 1880s. After making multiple visits to the area, Theodore Roosevelt declared the Grand Canyon a National Monument in 1908. The bill to grant national park status to the area was passed in 1919 and signed by then-President Woodrow Wilson. It was also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Stroll through Kolb Studio to find out more about the history of the park.

Uncover stories about early settlers and adventurers at the Pioneer Cemetery

Explore an 800-year-old Puebloan site on a Tusayan Ruins Tour

Mary Colter was ahead of her time in a world when women architects were rare. She was the master architect and interior designer at the Grand Canyon from 1902 to 1948. Mary quickly made a name for herself by using natural materials and designs that looked like they belonged in nature – an approach that would later inspire architect Herbert Maier and others to create what we call “rustic” architecture today.

Working full-time as an architectural designer and decorator for the Fred Harvey Company, she ended up designing and overseeing eight buildings on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Colter was a total perfectionist who spent her whole career fighting for and protecting her artistic vision, no matter what anyone else thought. She also designed other buildings in the U.S. and was employed by the Fred Harvey Company until she retired at the age of 79.

• Bright Angel Lodge
• Desert View Watchtower
• Hermit’s Rest – Built in 1914 to look like a miner’s cabin – Was originally built as a stagecoach rest stop. Today, it has restrooms, a snack bar, and a gift shop. Accessible by shuttle bus from March to the end of November.
• Hopi House –
• Lookout Studio [image above] Open daily 9am to 5pm
• Phantom Ranch

Native Nations Cultural Involvement

Interact with the culture of the indigenous Indian tribes through Cultural Demonstrations

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center – attend a Native American Heritage Celebration with special presentations and demonstrations recognizing the many accomplishments, contributions, and sacrifices made by America’s first people. The Park’s extensive Native American histories make it an ideal place for the public to learn about, acknowledge, and appreciate Native American culture. This event is free and open to the public.

Explore the Outdoors at the Grand Canyon

Check out the best viewing spots to watch the sun rise or set over the canyon in this list.

Everyone knows that nature is the star at Grand Canyon National Park. But did you know that different seasons bring a variety of experiences?

• Summer brings warmer temperatures at the rim and extremely high temperatures down in the canyon.
• Sometimes spectacular monsoon thunderstorms explode over the canyon throughout the park in the evenings. These can be gorgeous if you can find shelter or potentially dangerous if you’re out on the trails.

Enjoy diverse wildlife, like deer, mountain lions, California Condors (endangered species), javelina, bison, bobcats, cougars, hawks, bald eagles, geckos, lizards, trout, and hundreds of other species

Learn why the Grand Canyon cliffs and rock formations are so colorful at the Yavapai Museum of Geology. It’s on Village Loop Road between the Visitor Center and Market Plaza – open 8 am – 7 pm daily

Become a Lifelong Learner at the Park

Participate in a National Park Ranger-led Program

Visit the bookstore to learn more about every facet of the park, its history, people, and cultures

Take a variety of exciting and unique hands-on classes, backpacking trips, and educational tours with the non-profit organization that support Grand Canyon National Park – GC Conservancy Field Institute

If you’re a scientist, you may be able to conduct research at the park – the Grand Canyon hosts 80 projects each year

Bring your own telescope to observe the heavens anytime in this officially designated Dark Sky Park.

Pro Tip: Havasu Falls is NOT in the Grand Canyon, but Nearby

If you want to see the famous turquoise blue waterfalls that are not far from the National Park, you’ll need to make reservations online NOW at Havasupai Falls and Indian Reservation – but you MUST plan ahead to reserve a spot at the limited site campground or tiny motel, and the hike isn’t easy.

No day hiking is allowed, which means you can’t just visit for a few hours or the day, then hike back out of the canyon. The hike gets quite hot along the trail in the summer. Don’t take this trip lightly. Do plenty of research, learn from others who’ve gone, and get in shape. It’s a magical place. I did the hike two times many decades ago. It’s well worth a visit if you’re up for the hike and rustic camping, but it’s best to plan it as a trip all its own.

Learn Something New

Become a Junior Ranger and receive a Grand Canyon Junior Ranger badge

Submit an application to attend the GCNP Helicopter Training Academy

Bring your Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts to Scout School to earn merit badges

Youth can attend the Canyon Field School

Pursue your craft through a photography workshop

Create a masterpiece at the edge of the canyon – plein air painting and more

Relax at a Grand Canyon Yoga Retreat

Attend an Advanced Wilderness Life Support Conference

Annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Art

Visit the park between September – January

Enjoy the Annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Art – Celebration of Art is a wonderful tradition at the Park. Plein Air Artists are inspired by the canyon and look for ways to translate their inspiration into art. This provides an intriguing experience for visitors to watch art being created. The partnership creates a unique fundraiser that benefits a dedicated art venue at the South Rim.

Celebration of Art Activities

Artist Demonstrations and Plein Air Painting

Quick Draw – artists have 2 hours to complete a painting of the canyon while viewers watch

Quick Draw Auction – Can’t draw? Buy a painting for a good cause.

Celebration of Art Exhibition Grand Opening

View and buy at the Art Exhibition and Sale

Spend More Time at the Park

Find out ways to get to know the park more by volunteering during your visit

Best reason to visit the park – you can work for the park service, so you don’t have to leave – Find jobs here

Work for the Grand Canyon Conservancy at the park

If you still have questions about Grand Canyon National Park? Check out these FAQs from those in the know.

If you’ve never visited, set aside time to go soon. It’s a trip you’ll never forget. If you HAVE visited, let me know below, what I missed in my list. I’m sure there’s so much more.

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