15+ Cool Things to Do and See in Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States, offering a wide range of activities and breathtaking sights. More than 4 million visitors visit this park every year.

Whether you want to explore the jaw-dropping beauty, enjoy magical views, or explore famous rock formations, there are countless things to do and see in Grand Canyon National Park.

Get ready to make your Grand Canyon vacation memorable with our ultimate list of 15+ unique things to do in Grand Canyon.

15+ Things to Do and See in Grand Canyon National Park

Want to enjoy hiking or biking? Or you are in search of rafting & exploring magical wonders? We have something for every type of traveler. So, read our comprehensive list till the end to get ready for the experience of a lifetime.

Must-See Attractions

1. South Rim

Visitors stand on a glass skywalk extending over the edge of the Grand Canyon, offering panoramic views of the vast, layered rock formations under a blue sky. — © pinterest

Grand Canyon South Rim is the scenic & easily accessible part of the park. The fabulous views, amazing viewpoints, adventurous trails & amenities makes this park a hub spot for tourists. Exploring Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Grand Canyon Village is one of the best things to do in Grand Canyon South Rim.

Address

Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Phone

+1 928-638-4095

2. North Rim

A group of tourists stands at a scenic overlook at the Grand Canyon, capturing photos of the vast, colorful landscape at sunset. Some people sit on a stone bench and others stand near the edge, admiring the rocky formations and expansive views. — © pinterest

North Rim is less crowded as compared to South Rim. Worth visiting this place in USA for travelers who want to enjoy roadless travel. Inside the park, you will find one lodge named “Grand Canyon Lodge” with food & beverage services. For reservations, contact them 6 months prior.

Address

Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Phone

928-638-7888

3. Sunrise and Sunset

A vivid sunset over a calm ocean, with the sun just above the horizon partially covered by dramatic dark clouds tinged with red and orange hues. A streak of sunlight reflects off the water, creating a serene and captivating scene. — © pinterest

Nothing is better than capturing beautiful sunrise & sunset views at Grand Canyon National Park. You can enjoy these views from Hopi Point, Yavapai Point, and Hermit Road. To enjoy the sunset, arrive 30 minutes prior, and for sunrise, go one hour earlier.

How to Get to Viewpoints?

Through shuttle bus.

Available Facilities at Viewpoints

Restrooms
Accessible overlooks
Water

4. Phantom Ranch

A woman in athletic clothing stands in the doorway of a small, rustic cabin with stone and wood walls and green window frames. There are cacti and rocks in the foreground, and large rocky hills are visible in the background. The woman appears to be smiling. — © tripadvisor

It is located at the bottom of the canyon. You can accessible to this spot through hiking trails or by taking a mule ride. At Phantom Ranch, you could explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy dining options & make your stay memorable at cabins or lodges.

Address

N Kaibab Trail, North Rim, AZ 86052

Phone

(888) 297-2757

5. Bright Angel Trail

A rugged trail winds through a rocky landscape at the edge of a canyon, with colorful orange and red hues highlighted by the setting sun. Two small trees with sparse foliage stand tall against the clear blue sky, casting long shadows over the cliffside path. — © YouTube

Among the top 10 things to do in Grand Canyon, exploring Bright Angel Trail will be one of the best experiences for you. Trail directly leading from the South Rim down to Phantom Ranch famous for its well-maintained path & magical views.

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

Elevation

6,850 feet

6. Desert View Drive

A convoy of white SUVs drives over the vast, undulating sand dunes of a desert under a clear sky. The rugged terrain of the desert creates a dynamic and adventurous scene, with the vehicles trailing off into the distance. Sparse vegetation is visible. — © airbnb

A scenic road located on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Desert View Drive runs through the Grand Canyon Village to 64 route, where you can see various historic viewpoints & views. After some time, this road is named Desert View Watchtower where you can stop at various points.

What’s Along the Desert View Drive?

6 developed canyon viewpoints
4 picnic areas
5 unmarked pullouts
Famous Viewpoints
Lipan Point
Navajo Point
Grandview Point

Activities

7. Hiking

Four hikers, wearing backpacks and outdoor gear, stand on a grassy mountaintop with their arms raised in celebration. They are overlooking a scenic view of rugged mountains and a clear blue sky. The group appears joyful and triumphant. — © myseldon

Want to go hiking at the Grand Canyon National Park? Various options for you. From easy hikes to challenging hikes, there are various trails where you can hike. Rim Trail, the Bright Angel Trail, and the North Kaibab Trail are some of the famous hikes here. Must check trail conditions earlier.

South Rim Day Hikes

Bright Angel Trail
Hermit Trail
Grandview Trail
North Rim Day Hikes
Transept Trail
Ken Patrick Trail
Uncle Jim Trail

8. Mule Rides

A group of riders wearing cowboy hats and casual outdoor clothing ride mules along a trail on the edge of the Grand Canyon. The vast canyon, with its layered rock formations and dramatic cliffs, stretches out under a bright blue sky. — © tracks-trails

Mule rides are a unique way to explore the park & free things to do at the Grand Canyon. The guided mule rides are available from both the South & North rims. There is no other Grand Canyon adventurous experience more enticing than enjoying a mule ride.

Restrictions for Mule Rides

Riders must be:

Minimum of 9 years of age.
At least 57 inches (4’9″) tall.
Weigh less than 200 lbs. or 225 lbs.
Easily understand instructions in English.
Under 18 children must be accompanied by parents.

9. Whitewater Rafting

A group of eight people wearing helmets and life vests navigate rough waters in an inflatable blue raft while whitewater rafting. Some paddle vigorously while others hold on, and the water splashes around them, creating an exciting and dynamic scene. — © whitewaterexcitement

Explore the Grand Canyon from below through a whitewater rafting trip. The Hualapai River Runners comes with a 1-day whitewater rafting trip of the Colorado River. While rafting, you can enjoy lunch along river banks, hike to the Travertine Cavern Falls & spot local wildlife.

Rates

One-day rafting: Starts from $429
Two-day rafting: One-day rafting: Starts from $799

10. Scenic Drives

A winding coastal highway hugs the edge of a steep cliff with the ocean stretching out beside it. The sun is setting in the background, casting a golden glow over the sea and cliffs. A car is visible driving along the road, and waves crash against the rocky shore. — © theculturetrip

Hermit Road and Desert View Drive offer stunning views and multiple viewpoints along the South Rim. It’s one of the best cheap things to do at the Grand Canyon. The North Rim has its scenic drives, including the Cape Royal Road.

Other Scenic Drives

Kaibab Plateau
East Rim
Sothern Rim

11. Star Gazing

A silhouette of an adult and a child stands next to a telescope under a clear night sky filled with stars and the Milky Way galaxy. The adult points towards the sky while the child looks through the telescope. — © arhe-events.timepad

A trip to Grand Canyon National Park is incomplete without exploring the canyon on a moonlit. The Grand Canyon’s dark skies make it an ideal place to stay and enjoy stargazing. During stargazing peak season, ranger programs are also being offered to visitors.

Upcoming Night Sky Events Dates

30^th & 31^st August 2024
1^st September 2024
6^th September 2024

12. Camping

A scenic campsite with several colorful tents is set up under a canopy of lush green trees. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting dappled shadows on the grassy ground. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting. — © sharevillage

Camping is one of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon. There are various campgrounds within the park, including Mather Campground on the South Rim and North Rim Campground. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit.

Tips

Book your reservations in advance.
Reservations should be made 6 months prior.
Make your booking online.

Educational and Cultural Experiences

13. Grand Canyon Visitor Center

The image shows visitors inside a large, well-lit visitor center with high wooden beams. Some people are at a reception desk on the right, while others are walking or looking at displays on the left. The center features decorative elements and large informational signs. — © flickr

It’s one of the best place to get all information about park in terms of trails, park history & weather conditions. There are a total of 3 Grand Canyon Visitor Centers, out of which 2 located on the south rim & 1 on the north rim. Easily accessible by foot or through a free bus ride.

Opening Days & Hours

Daily: 8 am to 3 pm.

14. Ranger Programs

A park ranger wearing a wide-brimmed hat and uniform speaks, pointing with her left hand. She is equipped with a headset microphone for amplification. The background is blurred, with trees indicated in the setting. — © commons.wikimedia

Ranger Programs are free of cost so don’t skip the opportunity to get free access led by park rangers. With these programs, you can get valuable insights into the park’s natural and cultural history. If you are with your kids, you go for Junior Rangers Program.

Covered Things

Grand Canyon’s geology
Fossils
Native American cultures
Educational tours

15. Grand Canyon Museum

a group of people on a bridge over a canyon — © Pinterest

Located near the South Rim, offering exhibits on the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. Grand Canyon Museum was completed back in 1999 to provide study & research facts. The staff museum is friendly & will guide you regarding artifacts, exhibits & history.

Address

2 Albright Ave, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Phone

(928) 638-7769

16. Native American Ruins

A cliff dwelling with multiple stone structures and circular kivas built into the side of a sandstone cliff, surrounded by greenery at the base. This ancient Puebloan village is a well-preserved archaeological site with terraced levels and rectangular towers. — © pinterest

If you want to explore Native American history, must-visit sites are Tusayan Ruin and Museum, and the Grand Canyon Village. Tusayan Ruin is a more than 500-year-old Pueblo Indian site located within the park and considered as major Archaeological sites in Arizona.

Address

Grand Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Phone

(928) 638-7888

Final Thoughts!

With these 15+ things to do and see in Grand Canyon National Park, you can experience the full majesty and diversity of Grand Canyon National Park. Also, you can go for different adventurous & cultural experiences that you can’t forget ever. Always plan ahead, stay safe, and respect the park’s natural and cultural resources.

FAQs:

What not to miss around Grand Canyon?

When visiting Grand Canyon, not to miss activities are:
Hike Bright Angel Trail
Sunset from Cape Royal
See Ooh Aah Point
Sunrise at Point Imperial

What is the most beautiful part of the Grand Canyon?

The South Rim is the most beautiful & most visited part of the Grand Canyon so must visit this place.

What is the most interesting thing about the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon is famous for its geological formations as it contains ancient & old layers of stones.

What is one thing to keep in mind when visiting the Grand Canyon?

When visiting the Grand Canyon, keep in mind that there’s no way to cross the canyon by car & you have to drive the whole way.

What is the best way to see the Grand Canyon?

The best way to see the magical beauty of the Grand Canyon is to see the Canyon from the South & North rim. Also, you can take an aerial tour or enjoy a boat ride along Colorado.

15+ Cool Things to Do and See in Grand Canyon National Park

15+ Things to Do and See in Grand Canyon National Park