Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon? Stay in Tusayan, Arizona! Just minutes from the South Rim entrance, Tusayan is the closest town to Grand Canyon National Park. You'll find it perfectly situated to some of the best views on the planet.
I know you're excited to go outdoors, but don't miss the show at the Grand Canyon IMAX Theater. Stock up on snacks at the Tusayan General Store before heading into the park. I like to visit in the spring and fall but winter is also magical in its own way. Tusayan is located on Highway 64, just 7 miles south of the South Rim entrance. It’s about 1.5 hours from Flagstaff and 4 hours from Phoenix.
If you would like to explore with a guide, there are many great tours to choose from.
Where to Stay in Tusayan, AZ
- Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon offers family-friendly rooms
- Red Feather Lodgeis close to restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Tusayan, AZ
1. Canyon View Information Center
My first stop was the Canyon View Information Center at the South Entrance Station.
You can get to the nearby Mather Point for spectacular views by riding the free Park-and-Ride shuttle bus.
Check out an array of exhibits, including a sizeable video-enabled relief map of the canyon.
You can see historic artifacts.
Pick up some souvenirs at the gift shop. Between March and October, bicycle rentals are available.
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023, Phone: 928-638-7888
2. Grand Canyon Imax Theater
Don't skip the Grand Canyon Imax Theater, an enormous six-story high by 82-foot-wide movie screen that shows a documentary on the Grand Canyon titled Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder.
The movie is visually stunning and takes you on a virtual reality experience through the Grand Canyon.
450 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, Phone: 928-638-2203
3. Hermit Trail
If you feel like hiking, the Hermit Trail is a favorite hiking trail in the Grand Canyon National Park.
The trail wanders 1.5 miles through ancient rock formations to the Colorado River. You can access it by shuttle bus from the Grand Canyon Village.
You can camp overnight at the Park Service campsite.
All-Star Grand Canyon Tours Inc. ®, 2420 N. 3rd st. Suite D, Flagstaff, AZ, 86001, Phone: 928-814-8887
4. Pink Jeep Tours Grand Canyon
If you prefer to explore with an experienced guide, check out Pink Jeep Tours Grand Canyon.
Tours are conducted in open-air Pink® Jeeps® and led by professional guides. You will get access to unique insights and experiences which provide expert knowledge about each stop.
450 State Route 64 Tusayan, AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, Phone: 844-239-7465
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
Where to Eat in Tusayan, AZ
- Canyon Star Steakhouse & Saloon – Southwestern fare and live music in a rustic-chic atmosphere.
- Plaza Bonita – Mexican restaurant offering fajitas, margaritas, and generous portions near most hotels.
- We Cook Pizza & Pasta – Casual eatery with pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches great for families and hikers.
If you are interested in local events:
- Grand Canyon Star Party (June) – Weeklong stargazing event hosted at the South Rim, with telescope viewings and astronomy talks.
- National Park Week (April) – Celebrate with ranger programs, fee-free days, and special events in the park.
- Native American Heritage Days (Varies) – Cultural demonstrations, art, and performances held seasonally at the park.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Tusayan, Arizona:
- Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor Center (10 min) – Begin your park visit with maps, exhibits, and shuttle info.
- Desert View Watchtower (30 min) – Iconic stone tower with murals and panoramic canyon views to the east.
- Grandview Point (25 min) – One of the highest viewpoints on the South Rim with sweeping vistas and trail access.
- Grand Canyon Village (15 min) – Historic area with El Tovar Hotel, Hopi House, and Bright Angel Trailhead.
- Tusayan Ranger District of Kaibab National Forest (10–15 min) – Hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing in peaceful pine forests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Tusayan located?
- Situated at the doorstep of one of the seven wonders of the natural world and Arizona’s grandest attraction – the magnificent Grand Canyon, Tusayan is the gateway to the Canyon’s South Rim.
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What makes Tusayan a popular destination?
- Located high in the Kaibab Forest just outside the national park entrance, Tusayan is home to the Grand Canyon National Airport.
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What tours are available from Tusayan?
- Several helicopter and airplane tours depart daily from the Grand Canyon National Airport, offering breathtaking views of the canyon.
Plan Your Trip