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Mother Nature outdid herself in Arizona, and you'll want to stay at least one night to absorb all her magnificence.
Whether it's your first glimpse of this expansive marvel or you've seen it a dozen times, each visit to Grand Canyon National Park is awe-inspiring. The canyon's colors seem to shift with the season, weather, and time of day, making each viewing feel as though you've stepped into an immersive and ever-changing art exhibit.
It's an experience that demands to be savored, and you can extend your time in this beautiful part of the country with a stay at one of these top Grand Canyon hotels. Some are located within the park for maximum access, while others are in nearby Arizona cities that make the canyon an easy day trip and encourage further exploration of the region.
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Why We Chose It
This National Historic Landmark is the quintessential Grand Canyon accommodation, located within the canyon's Historic Village and overlooking the expansive South Rim.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
On-site dining, award-winning wine list, complimentary self-parking
Hotel Description
When it opened its doors in 1905, managed by the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railway, El Tovar Hotel was regarded by many as the most elegant hotel west of the Mississippi. Built with Oregon pine and local limestone, it was designed to cater to the European obsessions of the era's elite - think Swiss chalet meets Norwegian villa. Today, it's one of few Harvey Houses still in operation and earned the title of National Historic Landmark in 1987.
Each of the hotel's 12 suites has its own name and identity - such as the Zane Grey Suite, named after an author of popular Westerns who stayed here - and is decorated with relevant wall art. Even though you're just steps away from the Grand Canyon, snagging one of the few suites with a porch or balcony is a treat few guests get to experience. (Note that not all suites can be booked online; call 888-29-PARKS to reserve.) Make time for the Historic Village walking tour, which takes you to eight stops, including Hopi House, the Santa Fe Railway Station, and Lookout Studio, right on the edge of the Canyon.
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Why We Chose It
The most fun way to get to the Grand Canyon is by train, and this hotel is right next to the depot and just a block from downtown Williams and historic Route 66.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Heated indoor saltwater pool, on-site pub and restaurant, game room, outdoor playground
Hotel Description
Parking at the South Rim can be a hassle, which is why so many visitors love to arrive via the Grand Canyon Railway; it takes you from Williams Depot, built in 1908, directly to the Historic Village on restored vintage railcars. Package deals include accommodation, a round-trip train ride, and meals at the hotel's Fred Harvey Restaurant. If you prefer to eat out, you'll find plenty of dining options along Route 66, just two blocks away.
All of the hotel's rooms have been remodeled as of 2017, but the nicest option is the Rail Baron Suite. It was designed for former railway owners Max and Thelma Biegert and includes a full kitchen, living room, and bedroom. Don't wait until you hear the train's whistle to head over to the depot, as there's a Wild West "shoot-out" every morning that'll set the tone for the rest of the fun antics you'll experience onboard, from guitar strummin' cowboys to train robberies.
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Why We Chose It
What better way to experience the wonders of nature than by glamping at this brand-new eco-resort in the world's largest ponderosa pine forest?
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
EV charging station, e-bike rentals, complimentary kayaks and fishing poles, complimentary yoga, geocaching for kids, s'mores at the firepit
Hotel Description
Love the outdoorsy experience but don't want to skimp on creature comforts? Backland officially opened September 1, 2022, and it's the ideal way to reconnect with nature in a luxurious environment. The hotel is set on 160 acres of private, unspoiled land that features forest, a pond with a beach, wildflowers, and more than 2 miles of nature trails. It's no surprise you'll also find farm-to-table cuisine focused on seasonal ingredients at Backland.
All suites feature panoramic windows, king-size beds, full en-suite bathrooms with showers, luxury linens, electricity, automatic climate control, tentside parking, housekeeping, a coffee maker, and a mini fridge. Upgrade to a Sky Suite for a glass skylight that lets you to stargaze from the comfort of your bed. Backland is located near Williams, making it easy to take the Grand Canyon Railway to the canyon, but it's also an ideal base camp for day trips to Sycamore Falls and Sedona.
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Why We Chose It
Having just undergone a $13 million reinvention, this Flagstaff property on historic Route 66 offers a modern take on a retro '60s vibe that celebrates the area's roots.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Nordic spa, hot tub, largest outdoor pool in northern Arizona, in-room retro tape deck with a collection of mixtapes
Hotel Description
What began as a roadside motel along historic Route 66 in downtown Flagstaff has morphed into the area's newest boutique hotel thanks to an extensive renovation. Book one of four room types: Classic, inspired by vintage Americana; Pool View, if you want to be at the heart of the action; Cosmic Cottage, which offers a cozy mountain cabin experience; or Junior Suite, for a bit more space. In each, you'll find plenty of retro touches paying homage to the Mother Road's culture, like a tape deck and collection of mixtapes.
One of the biggest draws at High Country Motor Lodge is the Nordic Spa, the first in Arizona, where you alternate between hot and cold to boost your immune system and improve circulation. Alternatively, take a refreshing dip in the pool or soothe your sore muscles in the hot tub. The lodge's throwback General Store has a bar, serves pizza and sandwiches, and sells provisions. Stop by its game room for a round of pool, grab a board game, or hit the lawn for movie nights and a crackling firepit.
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Why We Chose It
Just a short walk from the South Rim, Maswik Lodge South opened in May 2022 after a $35 million reconstruction, making it the first new lodging inside the park in more than 50 years.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Kitchenettes in 30 rooms, dark-sky compliant lighting, EV charging station, water bottle filling stations
Hotel Description
Named for a Hopi kachina (ancestral spirit being) said to guard the Grand Canyon, Maswik Lodge South sits about a 10-minute walk from the canyon's edge and the Hermit Road/Village Route shuttle bus transfer station. Thanks to a $35 million reconstruction by Xanterra Travel Collection, the original 90 rooms of this 1971 property have been replaced with 120 new lodging units across four new structures. The architects preserved the original stone pillars, but inside you'll find modern furnishings mixed with textiles inspired by Native American artwork.
Maswik has a gift shop, food court, and pizza pub, but if you choose a kitchenette room, you'll have access to a refrigerator, microwave, cooktop, basic cookware, and utensils to ensure a comfortable stay. Maswik South also offers ADA-compliant rooms, and there's an elevator for second-floor accommodations (unlike Maswik North, which has no elevators). All rooms have either a patio or balcony.
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Why We Chose It
Disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself at this upscale safari-inspired glamping resort just 26 miles from the park's entrance.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Nightly campfire with complimentary s'mores; Zen garden; yoga deck; complimentary artisan teas, hot cocoa, and Bluestone Lane coffee
Hotel Description
Tucked away on 160 acres, this camp is the perfect place to retreat to after a busy day of adventuring and sightseeing. Choose from one of nine different tent options, including a Safari with Adjacent Kids Tent for families; a Stargazer tent, with an above-bed viewing window and wood stove; or the Deluxe, with a private deck, flushing toilet, and pull-chain shower with hot water.
Gather with your neighbors for a nightly campfire with s'mores or a yoga class on the deck, dine in the on-site cafe or alfresco on grab-and-go provisions, and relax in the main lobby tent on West Elm furniture while playing board games. Ahead of your stay, you can work with an Under Canvas Adventure Concierge, who will assist with curating a memorable trip by booking a guided experience like a jeep safari or private hiking tour.
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Why We Chose It
Designed by famous Southwest architect Mary E.J. Colter in 1935, Bright Angel is a National Historic Landmark located at the top of the iconic Bright Angel Trail.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Bright Angel History Room with historic artifacts, seasonal soda fountain
Hotel Description
Bright Angel Lodge was originally designed to provide a more affordable Grand Canyon hotel option than El Tovar, and it remains a favorite among park visitors. There are 90 lodging units, but for canyon views and a truly historic stay, book the cozy Buckey O'Neill Cabin. Its eponymous builder was a member of Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders and later was instrumental in establishing what would become the Grand Canyon Railway. Another great option is the two-room Red Horse Cabin, which once served as Grand Canyon Village's post office.
Bring your camera, as the sunrise and sunset views here are spectacular. Allow time in your schedule for a bite to eat at Fred Harvey Burger, a family-friendly restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and save room for ice cream at the seasonal old-fashioned soda fountain.
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Why We Chose It
Amenities abound at Flagstaff's Little America Hotel, making this an ideal choice for families or multi-generational groups.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Heated outdoor pool, hot tub, kids' playground, nature trail, seasonal North Pole Experience
Hotel Description
Looking for a hotel that will accommodate the whole family? Little America is the only AAA Four Diamond hotel in Flagstaff and has amenities that'll keep everyone happy. Plus, it's only 80 miles from Grand Canyon National Park. The sprawling property is set among ponderosa pine trees, and the rooms draw upon Native culture and the colors of the land to create a serene environment. Apartment Suites have two bedrooms, an oversized bathroom, and a full kitchen in 1,125 square feet of living space, and the Fireplace Suites are ideal for cozy stays when temperatures drop.
There's plenty to do on-site, including exploring the 2.5-mile nature trail, making use of the enormous heated pool and hot tub, and visiting the playground so your little ones can burn off some energy. After you've worked up an appetite, grab a quick bite at the Travel Center Hot Grill & Deli or enjoy a sit-down meal at the Silver Pine Restaurant & Bar.
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Why We Chose It
Venturing to the more remote North Rim? Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim may be the only lodging on this side of the park, but it offers several accommodation options.
Key Specs
Notable Amenities
Mule rides along the rim or inner canyon, dark-sky-friendly lighting, on-site restaurant, saloon, coffee bar, general store
Hotel Description
There's only one option for lodging on the less-visited North Rim, and this is it. The Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim was constructed using the area's Kaibab limestone and ponderosa pine logs and was designed to blend in with its surroundings. The National Historic Landmark truly looks as if it belongs right on the edge of the Canyon. While the property is in need of remodeling, the views make up for the cosmetic shortcomings. For panoramic Canyon views from a rocking chair on your very own porch, choose one of the log cabins located right on the rim.
The Dining Room serves regional cuisine and dishes from the 1930s. It focuses on sustainable ingredients such as seafood that observes the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program, free-range poultry, and certified organic products. When you stay at the lodge, you'll have access to many hiking trails where you can spot wildlife, but be sure to also book a one-hour, half-day, or Inner Canyon to Supai Tunnel mule ride led by mule wranglers.
No list of Grand Canyon hotels would be complete without mentioning the historic and beloved El Tovar, with its sweeping views of the South Rim and prime location within the park's Historic Village. As the first new lodging inside the park in more than 50 years, Maswik Lodge South is an exciting option for returning visitors. For something less traditional, consider glamping in a skylight-equipped tent at the eco-friendly Backland or the luxe Under Canvas Grand Canyon.
We evaluated more than a dozen hotels in Grand Canyon National Park and surrounding cities before selecting the best. We considered elements like the property's reputation, historic status, design, architecture, location, amenities, dining options, and available experiences. In determining this list, we also evaluated numerous customer reviews and considered whether the property has collected any accolades in recent years.