Explore Williams, AZ - Route 66 Gateway to the Grand Canyon
A Historic Route 66 Gateway to the Grand Canyon just 60 miles from the South Rim, Williams 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, Arizona is a charming town known for its Old West roots, vintage Americana flair, and easy access to the Grand Canyon. Whether you're riding the rails or exploring nearby national monuments, Williams is a vibrant hub for travelers in Northern Arizona.
Ride the Grand Canyon Railway
Board the Grand Canyon Railway in downtown Williams for a scenic 65-mile ride through the Arizona high desert. Departing daily from the historic depot, the train offers a relaxing and entertaining journey to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
After your adventure, return to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel for an overnight stay full of rustic elegance and Western nostalgia.
Step Back in Time on Route 66
Downtown Williams is a living postcard of Route 66 Americana. Walk past neon-lit diners, classic cars, and vintage motels as you explore a town rich with history and character.
Founded in 1876 by mountain man William “Old Bill” Williams, the town's Saloon Row once served rowdy miners and railroaders with bars, gambling halls, and brothels. Today, those same buildings host cozy B&Bs, coffee shops, boutiques, and ghost tours that celebrate Williams’ colorful past.
Top Things to Do in Williams, AZ
- Bearizona Wildlife Park – Drive-thru zoo with bears, bison, wolves & more
- Grand Canyon Deer Farm – Family-friendly petting zoo & animal encounters
- Elephant Rocks Golf Course – Scenic 18-hole public course in pine forest
- Planes of Fame Air Museum – Historic military aircraft & aviation history
- Canyon Coaster Adventure Park – The first and only mountain coaster in Arizona! Enjoy this scenic thrill ride, a must-do.
- Saloon Row Ghost Tours – Evening walking tours of haunted historic sites
Explore Nearby National Monuments
Williams is also a fantastic base for exploring Northern Arizona’s geological wonders and Native American heritage sites:
- Walnut Canyon National Monument (44 mi): Ancient cliff dwellings in scenic canyons
- Sunset Crater Volcano (54 mi): Dormant cinder cone with lava flows and trails
- Wupatki National Monument (61 mi): Prehistoric pueblos and sweeping desert views
Book Your Stay in Williams
Why Stay in Williams for Your Grand Canyon Trip?
Williams, AZ blends historic charm, Route 66 nostalgia, and modern comfort — all within an hour’s drive of the Grand Canyon. There are plenty of fun things to do for the family, and it's close proximity to the Canyon makes it an ideal basecamp for your northern AZ adventures.
- Ride the Grand Canyon Railway from the heart of town
- Enjoy Route 66 attractions, Old West saloons, and local dining
- Choose from historic motels, luxury resorts, and rustic lodges
- Plan day trips to national monuments, Flagstaff, and more
HOTELS & THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS
Sheridan House Inn - Williams
No Children Accommodated | Romantic | Award Winning | Custom Options Available | Breakfast Included | Optional Intimate Personal Chef Cooked Dinners | Private Porch or Balcony | Hot Tub | Perfect for Special Occasions
Grand Canyon Railway
Family-Friendly | Leaves from Williams
Fun 66 Tours
Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Leaves from Williams | Professionally Guided
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 fir … More
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.
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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
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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
Pet-Friendly | Outdoor Fireplace/Pit | Family-Friendly | Outdoor Fireplace/Pit | Outdoor Rental Equipment Available | Games Provided | Hot Drinks Provided | Spa | Eco-Friendly | On-site Restaurant | Breakfast Included
Bearizona Wildlife Park
Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Leaves from Williams | Professionally Guided