Top 8 Attractions & Things to Do at the Grand Canyon, South Rim

Obviously, the Grand Canyon is large. Starting off on the South Rim with these spots is a good idea.

Grand Canyon National Park's SOUTH RIM (open all year) is located 60 miles north of Williams, Arizona (via route 64 from Interstate 40) and 80 miles northwest of Flagstaff (via route 180). The Grand Canyon lies entirely within the state of Arizona. Airlines: Commercial airlines serve Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Las Vegas.

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The Grand Canyon in Arizona is a natural marvel that attracts tourists from all over the world. The South Rim is one of the most popular sites for viewing the canyon, as it provides spectacular views with little effort.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is a frequently seen landmark in travel brochures. Tourists are also familiar with Antelope Canyon, which is another iconic Arizona landmark.

At an elevation of 7000 feet, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon makes any traveler feel like they're on top of the world!

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon attracts more tourists than its other sides because it is a perfect place for first-time visitors. The rest of the three sides are more suitable for those who have visited before and want to experience something new.

This side of the island is also perfect for families due to the availability of stores, accommodations, and eateries in the area. This popular tourist destination is so massive, there are so many activities to enjoy.

When traveling to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, travelers can look forward to:

1. Hermit Road

Hermit Road is a popular tourist attraction that stretches for 7 miles (or 11 km) between the Grand Canyon Historic Village and Hermit's Rest. Travelers can enjoy views of the canyon along Hermit Road, but they must drive there during the winter months since it is closed to private vehicles from March to November.

However, the road remains accessible by hiking, biking, and a free shuttle bus service on the Grand Canyon. Visitors can take the Hermit Road shuttle, which can drop off and pick up passengers at 4 stops along the road.

2. Desert View

The small settlement of Desert View is located on the east side of the Grand Canyon. It can be reached via Arizona State Route 64 from Grand Canyon Village. Once there, tourists may use the restrooms, grab a bite to eat at the deli, buy gifts at the trading post, or stretch their legs.

Desert View is a great place to visit for the views and for the variety of things you can do. Mary Colter’s Desert View Watchtower offers the highest view in all of South Rim. Constructed in 1932, the design of this 70-ft watchtower was designed by Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, a local architect. Since then, it has been a landmark for the South View of the Grand Canyon. It offers a panoramic view of the South View where landmarks like Vermilion Cliffs and the Painted Desert are clearly visible.

3. Desert View Drive

As travelers journey to Desert View from Grand Canyon Village, they can admire the picturesque landscape of Arizona State Route 64. This road is also known as the Desert View Drive.

While driving through the canyon, visitors can stop at a number of viewpoints, picnic areas, and museums. For instance, Yavapai Point is popular for its views of the Colorado River and Bright Angel Canyon. Other lookouts include Yaki Point, Moran Point, and Lipan Point.

4. Yavapai Museum Of Geology

Rocks are more than a motionless object of nature (in fact, some rock formations can be beautiful). Located near Yavapai Point, tourists visiting the Yavapai Museum of Geology can learn about the different layers of rock that make up the Grand Canyon.

Geology enthusiasts can learn about the Grand Canyon's geological history and how this natural marvel formed over millions of years. The Yavapai Museum of Geology also offers an incredible window view of South Rim, which is one of the park's best scenic points. Visitors can also buy souvenirs to take home at the museum's gift shop.

5. South Rim Trail

The South Rim Trail is a relatively flat, paved hiking trail. It is less challenging than the other trails in the park because it is easy to walk on and tourists can access it from Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

The South Rim Trail is a 13-mile (or 21 km) walk along the Grand Canyon. The trail passes through the village, and tourists can also access Yavapai Point and the Yavapai Museum of Geology.

6. Mary Colter's Lookout Studio

Mary’s Lookout Studio offers visitors to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon one of the best views at this lookout point. The Lookout Studio was built in 1914 and is made from natural stone that has been carved into a stylish yet functional lookout point at Grand Canyon Historic Village, which also houses a gift shop.

7. Grand Canyon Visitor Center

The Grand Canyon Visitor Center should be your first stop when visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time.

The visitor center is equipped to handle any questions tourists may have about visiting South Rim while offering information about the Grand Canyon. The center offers accommodations, tour services, recommendations, and more. The visitor center even has an Imax theatre for those who'd like to witness the majesty of the Grand Canyon in a comfortable seat!

8. Grand Canyon Village

Grand Canyon Village is the first stop for many visitors to the South Rim. This village has several eateries, gift shops, and accommodations. History buffs will also love the historic sites in the village, which were built around the 19th century. Tourists should first stop by Verkamp's Visitor Center to check out a museum about the Grand Canyon.

Next, visitors can grab a map of the village and explore local historic buildings in the village. Tourists can visit the Hopi House, Bright Angel Lodge, Kolb Studio, and Lookout Studio. Afterward, tourists can snap some pretty photos of the Grand Canyon at Lookout Studio. The entrance to various walking trails is also accessible through the village.

Some Interesting facts about the Grand Canyon

• The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long. It is estimated that the Colorado River has been at work for 5 to 6 million years, carving out the canyon.
• The Grand Canyon officially became a national park on Feb 24, 1919.
• The Grand Canyon is the second most visited park in the US. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park comes in first place, with 12.5 million visitors in 2019 (compared to only 6 million for the Grand Canyon).

Public Transportation to the South Rim

Grand Canyon National Park's SOUTH RIM is located 60 miles north of Williams, Arizona and 80 miles northwest of Flagstaff. The Grand Canyon lies entirely within the state of Arizona.

Airlines: Commercial airlines serve Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Las Vegas.

Why is the Grand Canyon famous?

Geological activity and erosion by the Colorado River created the Grand Canyon as we know it today. It is one of the most studied landscapes in the world, with extensive fossil records, a multitude of geologic features and rich archeological history.

What 4 States is the Grand Canyon in?

Attractions at the Four Corners area - where Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico meet - including many national parks and monuments.

Is the Grand Canyon expensive?

The average price of a 7-day trip to Grand Canyon is $2,169 for a solo traveler, $3,896 for a couple, and $7,303 for a family of 4. Grand Canyon hotels range from $95 to $433 per night with an average of $168, while most vacation rentals will cost $440 to $500 per night for the entire home.