Where to stay in Grand Canyon National Park?

Hello, it’s Laura again, back as a guest on the blog to tell you about my trip through the American West—and, more specifically, the legendary Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is the most visited national park in the United States. Today, I’m answering one of the most frequently asked questions: where should you stay at the Grand Canyon?

In this article, I’ll share my opinion along with a selection of accommodations that may suit your trip. For your American road trip, I can assure you that the Grand Canyon is well worth including in your itinerary. Its viewpoints, hiking trails, desert landscapes, and natural arches are truly impressive. In my opinion, it’s one of the wonders of Arizona! I also recommend reading our article dedicated to Grand Canyon National Park to learn more about this landscape, carved by the Colorado River over billions of years. Of course, the Grand Canyon isn’t the only place worth seeing; there are also Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion Park and Antelope Park.

The aim of this article is to help you find the right place to stay, whether inside the Grand Canyon area or near one of the surrounding national parks. That way, you can make the most of your visit.

I’ve included several types of accommodation: campgrounds, mid-range hotels, luxury hotels, lodges, motels and, last but not least, scenic or unusual places to stay! You’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

First, I’d like to share my honest opinion on lodging inside and around the Grand Canyon.

I spent four days at the Grand Canyon. This gave me plenty of time to hike and explore the viewpoints overlooking the colorful desert and dramatic cliffs. Those four days also gave me the chance to stay both inside the Grand Canyon area and close to the national park. As I’ve already mentioned in the dedicated article, if you want to stay inside the national park, you can only do so at campsites on the South Rim or North Rim.

In my opinion, spending one or two nights at a campground is well worth considering for the full Grand Canyon experience. Waking up in a Wild West setting—just like in the movies, haha—is a truly memorable experience. The only downside is that if you are uncomfortable around wildlife, you might come across a few (such as elk).

For the rest of my stay, I chose a hotel for a little more comfort, especially after a day of hiking the rocky trails between the canyon walls of the Grand Canyon. I highly recommend combining camping with a hotel stay for your stay. You’ll have an experience that’s both immersive and comfortable. Having access to a spa, a comfortable bed, and a private shower after a long hike is also a real treat.

That is simply my opinion, of course; the best option depends on the kind of Grand Canyon experience you want. To begin, let’s look at the accommodations available inside and around the national park.

The South Rim is located on the southern side of the Grand Canyon. It is one of the park’s main highlights, as it offers some of the best views anywhere in the national park.

Since I was lucky enough to spend two nights there, I wanted to start with Mather Campground. I have very fond memories of sitting around a campfire in the middle of nature, surrounded by rocks and forest. The campground is very well equipped, and I would happily recommend it.

Trailer Village is the only campground designed for RVs. For anyone traveling through the American West in an RV, I’ve heard nothing but good things about this campground, so it is definitely worth considering!

As the name suggests, Desert View Campground is located in a peaceful desert setting and has 49 sites. Just a word of warning: reservations are required (unlike at the previous two campgrounds) as it is very popular and open from April to October.

Bright Angel Lodge is one of the best lodges in the Grand Canyon National Park area. As the name suggests, it is located very close to the famous Bright Angel Trail and offers everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay!

The name of Hualapai Lodge in Peach Springs refers directly to the Hualapai Indian people, as it is located in the western part of Grand Canyon National Park. This is a remote desert area that belongs to the Native American people. What’s more, the staff’s warm welcome and friendliness are among the lodge’s main strengths of this lodge! Facilities include modern rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a very good restaurant!

North Rim is the other main rim of the Grand Canyon, and unlike the South Rim, it is quieter, less developed, and more secluded. You may have the opportunity to visit it during your trip. The main thing to keep in mind is that it is often closed during winter.

Although the choice is limited, Demotte Campground is the only campground on the North Rim. That said, however, that reviews of the campground are generally very positive. It’s well-equipped, surrounded by a remote forest, and perfect for getting away from it all!

Grand Canyon Lodge is a large hotel complex made up of several types of cabins with breathtaking views of the rocky desert landscape of the Grand Canyon. One piece of advice: the lodge is open from April to October and is almost always full, so book early!

A road trip through the United States often goes hand in hand with a motel stay. I didn’t have the opportunity (or the time) to stay in a motel near the Grand Canyon. Motels remain a very popular accommodation option in the area.

If you’re coming to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas (and there is a good chance you will be!), part of your route will be along the legendary Route 66. You can stop off at this motel, which is very popular with travelers. The exterior and interior of this motel make it a typical American establishment, straight out of a movie.

One of the motel’s main advantages is its excellent value for money. You can choose between two standard rooms: the first one can accommodate two guests and the second one can accommodate up to four guests with two queen-size beds. You can also opt for the Deluxe Suite, which is very comfortable and cozy, which also has two queen-size beds but includes upgraded facilities.

The motel does not have a restaurant, but there is a café and restaurants nearby with excellent reviews. In short, the Historic Route 66 Motel is a good choice for a short stay if you’re looking for a quintessentially American experience.

Book your stay at Historic Route 66 Motel

The 3-star El Rancho Motel is conveniently located on Route 66. You can take a short trip to the BeArizona Wildlife Park, 2.6 km away, to observe wildlife: bison, bears, wolves and elk in the heart of pine forests (typical of the Arizona landscape). Like the previous property hotel, it offers excellent value for money. For a little background, this hotel has been in operation since 1937 and is a National Historic Landmark, having hosted many well-known stars of the era.

Meals require a little planning as there are no restaurants in the motel, but each room is equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a kettle. There’s also an outdoor grill (great for barbecuing!).

In conclusion, El Rancho Motel is a very good choice if you’re looking for a motel that’s well located, reasonably priced, and, above all, quiet and pleasant.

Enjoy your stay at El Rancho Motel

I had the opportunity to spend two nights at this hotel in Tusayan (about 10 km from the south entrance of the Grand Canyon). I really enjoyed my stay at this 3-star hotel! The rooms are modern, comfortable and spacious enough to make you feel at home.

I also enjoyed some of the hotel’s amenities, such as the spa and outdoor hot tub. (I can assure you that after two nights of camping and days of hiking, it felt really good).

When it comes to dining, JJK’s serves classic American food and the food is very good (especially the barbecue and hamburgers). The Wagon Wheel Saloon and the Bourbon Lounge offer good cocktails. They are both good options for a relaxed start to the evening.

Overall, the Grand Canyon Plaza Hôtel offers very good value! In my opinion, the prices are reasonable given the quality of the service, so I would recommend it without hesitation.

Pamper yourself at Grand Canyon Plaza Hôtel

Like the previous property, this 3-star hotel is located in Tusayan. The location is ideal for early morning or late afternoon Grand Canyon hikes and watching the sunrise and sunset. The rooms are equipped with all the comforts you need for your stay (double bed, flat-screen TV, air conditioning, coffee maker).

When it comes to amenities, you can enjoy an indoor swimming pool (handy in winter) and a hot tub, making this hotel one of the best mid-range establishments near the Grand Canyon.

As for breakfast, the complimentary breakfast buffet is generous. Don’t forget to plan your own lunch and dinner – there’s a microwave and refrigerator in your room if you need it!

The Grand Canyon Hotel & Suites is a great choice if you’re looking for a hotel with simple, comfortable rooms.

Book a few nights at Grand Canyon Hotel & Suites

To be honest, there are very few resort hotels near the Grand Canyon. However, there are a number of upscale hotels that offer outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spas and hot tubs.

This four-star resort is ideally located. It is a 10-minute drive from the entrance to the national park and the visitor center. All rooms are well-appointed (king-size bed, coffee maker, air conditioning, balcony) with daily maid service. The staff is well known for making you feel welcome and advising on how to explore and discover the Grand Canyon and surrounding Arizona area.

When it comes to dining, you have a choice of 4 high-quality restaurants, especially the Coronado Room, which serves typical Arizona cuisine. When it comes to services, there is plenty to do! There’s bowling, a game room, two swimming pools and a gym to keep you in shape.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a four-star hotel with high-quality amenities and above all, as close to the Grand Canyon as possible, the Holiday Inn Resort The Squire is a strong option.

Book my stay at Holiday Inn Resort The Squire

For a luxurious Grand Canyon experience, this five-star hotel is a strong option! Its modern, luxurious rooms are family-friendly. (You can request a crib at the front desk!) You will appreciate the comfort and quality of the rooms: a king-size bed, ideal for resting before another day of hiking!

Its amenities are designed to help you relax during your stay: you can enjoy a hot tub, an indoor pool (which is fairly unusual in the American West) and a well-equipped gym.

What makes this hotel even more unique is its wood decor, which gives it a cozy, warm feel while offering high-end amenities.

In conclusion, for a luxurious, comfortable, modern hotel in a great location (near the Grand Canyon), The Grand Hotel at The Grand Canyon is an appealing option for a comfortable upscale stay.

Treat yourself at The Grand Hotel at The Grand Canyon

Wander Camp Grand Canyon offers comfortable tipis in the middle of cliffs and desert landscapes! The property combines comfort with a natural setting. There is also an outdoor campfire area to enjoy. The teepees have comfortable beds.

It is ideal for nature lovers who do not want to give up all their comforts. The inside of the tipis is clean and well equipped. The tipis are also spaced well apart. You’ll be able to enjoy your own peaceful space in a wonderful setting.

The sunsets around the campfire are a distinctive and memorable experience that makes a change from hotels and creates wonderful memories! The only downside is that, as this is glamping, as you might expect, the toilets and showers are shared.

In short, if you’re looking for an unusual experience in the heart of a desert landscape, Wander Camp Grand Canyon is a great choice!

Book a few nights at Wander Camp Grand Canyon

Staying on a ranch near the Grand Canyon may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But it’s an experience that’s both quintessentially American and quite unusual for us!

The reviews of this ranch are unanimous: its rustic, authentic decor, reminiscent of the Old West, and its view of the cliffs make this a unique place to stay! That said, although the furnishings are rustic, the rooms have all the comforts you need (heating, air conditioning, fireplace and a private bathroom).

When it comes to dining, the Ranch House is just as decorated in the same authentic style and serves classic Western-style dishes, so making it a pleasant place for a meal! The best thing about this accommodation is its location: the Skywalk is only 20 minutes away!

If you’re looking for an immersive and authentic Old West-style stay, the Grand Canyon Western Ranch is a strong option!

Check availability and book a few nights at Grand Canyon Western Ranch

At first glance, you might think this tiny house is just another well-appointed vacation rental. What makes it so magical and unique is its location. You are close to the Grand Canyon while still feeling completely removed from everything: immersed in nature, with mountain views, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and a clear view of the starry sky – it’s a dream, isn’t it? As I write this, I am seriously considering trying this tiny house for myself. I’ll keep it in mind for my next trip to the Grand Canyon!

In terms of facilities, the cabin has two bedrooms, a kitchenette, private parking, Wi-Fi access, air conditioning and all the comforts you need for an excellent stay.

As you can see, if you’re looking for accommodation with a great view, this tiny house is a very appealing option!

Book my stay at Grand Canyon Hideaway Tiny home

The Cheerful Kathys Cabin is a cozy, welcoming cabin nestled in the heart of Arizona’s pine forests with stunning mountain views. The reviews are unanimous: it seems like the kind of place where you can immediately relax! One small tip: in winter, in the middle of snow-covered pine forests, the setting is even more magical!

This cabin offers a host of exceptional facilities including a spa tub, hot tub, king-size bed, private terrace, balcony overlooking the mountains and walk-in shower. And don’t forget that this accommodation is located in Flagstaff, close to some magnificent hiking trails!

As you can see, this cabin has many advantages (location, stunning views, exceptional surroundings, modern, high-quality amenities with a cozy, warm touch). If you choose this cabin, it is well worth considering!

Treat yourself to the Cheerful Kathys Cabin

I’ve come to the end of this article on lodging inside or near the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most famous natural landmarks in the United States. Now you have all the information you need about accommodation in and around the Grand Canyon. I hope this list of accommodations will help you prepare for your stay. As you’ve probably noticed, there’s something for every budget and taste! All that remains is to choose!

If you’re particularly fond of the national parks in the United States, I suggest you read Sylvain and Mélanie’s articles on Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks. Their articles certainly made me want to visit!

Feel free to share your experiences and opinions in the comments if you have already stayed in one of the accommodations mentioned in the article.

Written by Laura CALLES

I had the chance to visit the USA twice. I simply adored the country, especially the American west! I have lots of lovely memories and wonderful discoveries!

Despite our care, a mistake may have slipped into this article. If you find any, please don't hesitate to let us know so we can correct it as soon as possible and keep our information up-to-date!

See you soon for another trip to the United States.