Williams, Arizona: A Historic Route 66 Gateway to the Grand Canyon

Just 60 miles from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Williams, Arizona is more than a pit stop, it’s a nostalgic journey into the heart of the American West.

Nestled along Historic Route 66 and just off Interstate 40, Williams blends Old West roots, vintage Americana, and high-country mountain charm. At over 6,700 feet in elevation and surrounded by the Kaibab National Forest, it offers cooler temperatures, walkable streets, and a welcoming small-town energy.

Distance Snapshot:
Flagstaff to Williams: ~34 miles (35 minutes)
Williams to Grand Canyon South Rim: ~60 miles (1 hour)

Why Williams, Arizona Is Becoming a Destination

Once known simply as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” Williams is now a destination travelers intentionally choose for its charm, location, and experiences.

Route 66 Nostalgia: One of the best-preserved towns along historic Route 66
Grand Canyon Railway: A scenic train ride directly to the South Rim
Family-Friendly Attractions: Wildlife parks, petting zoos, and interactive experiences
Cooler Climate: Mountain elevation provides relief from Arizona heat
Walkable Downtown: Shops, dining, and entertainment all in one area

Ride the Grand Canyon Railway

Board the Grand Canyon Railway in downtown Williams for a scenic 65-mile ride through the Arizona high desert and pine forests. Departing daily from the historic depot, the journey includes live entertainment and Western flair.

After your trip, return to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel for a stay that blends rustic elegance with classic Western charm.

Step Back in Time on Route 66

Downtown Williams is a living postcard of Route 66 Americana. Walk past neon-lit diners, classic cars, vintage motels, and locally owned shops across six vibrant blocks.

Founded in 1876 by mountain man William “Old Bill” Williams, the town’s historic Saloon Row once served miners and railroaders. Today, those same buildings house cozy inns, restaurants, boutiques, and ghost tours.

Top Things to Do in Williams, Arizona

Bearizona Wildlife Park: Drive-through wildlife park with bears, bison, wolves and more
Grand Canyon Deer Farm: Family-friendly petting zoo and animal encounters
Canyon Coaster Adventure Park: Arizona’s only mountain coaster
Planes of Fame Air Museum: Historic aircraft and aviation exhibits
Elephant Rocks Golf Course: Scenic 18-hole course surrounded by pine forest
Saloon Row Ghost Tours: Evening walking tours of historic and haunted sites

Explore Nearby National Monuments

Walnut Canyon National Monument (44 miles): Cliff dwellings in dramatic canyon walls
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument (54 miles): Lava flows and volcanic landscapes
Wupatki National Monument (61 miles): Ancient pueblos and sweeping desert views

Where to Stay in Williams, AZ

Williams offers a range of accommodations that balance charm, comfort, and value.

Grand Canyon Railway Hotel: Ideal for train travelers and families
Route 66 Motels: Classic roadside lodging with nostalgic character
Cabins & Vacation Rentals: Quiet forest settings
RV Parks & Campgrounds: Convenient and budget-friendly options

Compared to lodging inside Grand Canyon National Park or Tusayan, Williams is often more affordable while offering more variety.

Why Stay in Williams for Your Grand Canyon Trip?

Williams, AZ blends historic charm, Route 66 nostalgia, and modern comfort all within an hour of the Grand Canyon.

Ride the Grand Canyon Railway from downtown Williams
Enjoy Route 66 attractions, dining, and nightlife
Stay in unique historic or nature-based accommodations
Take day trips to Flagstaff and nearby national monuments

Williams doesn't have to be just where you pass through on your way to the Grand Canyon. It’s where you take the time to explore that seemingly random town and becomes part of the experience.

A blend of railroad history, Route 66 nostalgia, and outdoor adventure, Williams, Arizona has become one of Northern Arizona’s most enjoyable destinations in its own right.

HOTELS & THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS

Grand Canyon Railway

Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation … More

WHAT GUESTS LIKE ABOUT THIS PLACE »

Family-Friendly | Leaves from Williams

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9.9

Backland Luxury Camping

Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fire in our glass-walled restaurant, relax with a massage in our tented spa, marvel at the grandeur of the universe through our complimentary telescopes, and take advantage of miles of nearby hiking trails.

Features:

Complimentary Breakfast
Onsite Glass Walled Restaurant
Onsite and nearby hiking trails
Close to the Grand Canyon and dozens of local attractions
Pond with sand beach, fishing, and kayaking
Snowshoes and sledding onsite when it snows

Tents feature:

Panoramic windows
Huge stargazing skylights over the beds (Skyview tents only)
Automatic climate control, fully insulated, and energy-efficient
King-sized beds
Full en-suite bathroom with showers
Luxury linens
Electricity in tents
Tentside parking + electric vehicle charging at reception
Private Outdoor patios
Coffee makers + mini-fridges
Ecological toiletries + water conservation fixtures

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Bearizona Wildlife Park

Welcome to Bearizona Wildlife Park. We are a Wildlife adventure, open year-round. Located on 160 acres in the city of Williams Az. We are right off Route 66 on the way to the Grand Canyon, just a short drive from Sedona and Flagstaff. The park consists of a 3-mile drive-thru and Fort Bearizona. In the drive-thru, you will take your own vehicle or our Wild Ride Bus through pristine Natural habitats for many North American Species. In these free-roaming areas, you will see wolves, bears, bison, and many other large species that can come right up to your car. Where the drive-thru ends Fort Bearizona begins. Park your car and come on in. This is where you will find our smaller animals like river otters and bobcats. The barnyard, which is our petting zoo and fun for all ages. The Raptor Free Flight program, where birds of prey fly right over your head. All Shows which include animal meet-n-greets and training presentations. Big Bear Gift shop, over 8,000 sq feet of treasures and also housing Arizona's largest model train, a historically accurate replica of the railroad from Williams depot to the grand canyon. For dining options, we have the Bearizona Grill for a quick snack or our themed Canyonlands restaurant where you can sit and have a hot meal and a cold beverage overlooking our remarkable jaguar enclosure. You can Hop on our website for all current show times and we hope you can come visit us soon. Not only will you learn about lots of Awesome North American animals but you will also have an amazing time while you're doing it.

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Family-Friendly

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Grand Canyon UTV Tours

YOU DRIVE one of our UTVs as you follow one of our expert guides taking you on an adventure of a lifetime. Our cross country leading to Grand Canyon is a full-day ride and our Verde River Tour is a 4-hour ride. All of our rides are radio-dispatched with check-in points to assure your safety and well-being. Don’t worry about getting lost, you’ll be following one of our expert guides leading the way. Don’t worry about breaking down, we have staff standing by to come to the rescue. What we are trying to say is just don’t worry as you enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, and we’ll see ya on the trail.

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Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Leaves from Williams | Professionally Guided

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Sheridan House Inn - Williams

Besides luxurious rooms, forested peacefulness, gourmet breakfasts, & intimate dinners, what sets the Sheridan House apart is the award-winning exceptional hospitality you will receive from the moment you book until the moment you leave. Travel, & life, is stressful, so nothing is better than knowing this intimate oasis awaits where passion to make memories for guests is evident in every aspect of your stay. Whatever the occasion, or just because, you deserve to be cared for and celebrated.

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9.8

Fun 66 Tours

Your unforgettable Route 66 adventure begins in Williams, AZ, known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon. This charming town was once a bustling stop on the Mother Road before I-40 bypassed it, leaving the town to find new ways to survive. This unique story of small-town resilience is part of what makes your journey so special, and along the way, you’ll learn all about the real-life inspiration for the Disney movie Cars. Meet the beloved Tow Mater for a fun photo op and see where the magic of Radiator Springs was born. Still more you’ll See Grand Canyon Caverns, learn of the Natives still living in Grand Canyon and much more!