We would have loved to stay at El Tovar Hotel inside the canyon but since we went there during the holiday weekend there was no more availability by the time we were booking. This hotel is a few steps away from one of the canyon rims with a nice porch and a few rocking chairs to take in the view. We explored the lobby with plenty of stuffed animal heads hanging to entertain the kids and ample seating to relax. So, if you want to stay within the canyon, do book early.
The South Rim lodging inside the park is run by Xanterra resorts and offer a variety of lodging choices ranging from rustic to elegant. All kids under 16 stay free in the rooms with paying adults.
Camping – The most economical way to visit the canyon. There are plenty of options for campers. Here are a couple of links with thorough information:
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – Tusayan, AZ
We stayed at this hotel for one night while exploring the Grand Canyon. It is only a few miles to the entrance of the Grand Canyon South Rim. There were two buildings to the hotel. We were on the main 3- story building while the other building was behind it. The parking area seemed a little crowded and this may be due to tourist buses parked on the same lots. Our room was clean and functional with no mini-refrigerator or microwave. It could probably use a few upgrades and décor updates.
The hotel did have a good complimentary breakfast with eggs, bacon, bagels, cinnamon rolls, biscuits with gravy and assortment of cereal, juices, muffin, and yogurt. This was a pleasant surprise since we’ve gotten used to the Hampton Inn’s sub-par complimentary breakfast. The dining area is not very big so it gets pretty crowded.
Contact: 1.888.465.4329 (1.888.HOLIDAY) Address: Highway 64, PO Box 3245, Tusayan, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 86023
Springhill Suites by Marriott – Kingman, AZ
We stayed here to break off our drive between San Diego and the Grand Canyon. This was about a 3-hour drive from the Grand Canyon. It was right off the highway and was a fairly new hotel that opened in 20. The rooms were nicely decorated with modern furniture and crisp, clean linens in xx hues.
There was a separate section in the front with a desk and a small couch. The room is a good size for a family. A complimentary breakfast was served with adequate food selection. There are various stores nearby including a Super Wal-mart to stock up on items before the long drive and stay at the Grand Canyon.
Contact: 928.753.8766 Address: 3101 East Andy Devine Avenue, Kingman, Arizona 86401
Aquarius Casino Resort – Laughlin, NV
We stayed in Laughlin, NV to break up our drive from the Grand Canyon to Southern California. This hotel was right in the middle of the downtown strip and the Colorado River boardwalk. It is also right across from a factory outlet mall. There was plenty of parking.
Our room was pretty spacious and we were given a corner room with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the river. It was nicely decorated with modern furnishings and was clean. We slept comfortably in their soft beds with plenty of pillows. There is an Outback steakhouse and their buffet restaurant on the premises for dining. Hotel staff we encountered were all hospitable and welcoming. For reservations, visit their website.
Contact: 1.800.662.LUCK (5825) Address: 1900 S. Casino Dr. Laughlin, NV
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