The Grand Canyon is probably the greatest tourist attraction in the world. It usually tops all those lists of places to see before you die. Over five million people a year do go and gaze at the world's greatest natural attraction. But there is limited accommodation at the most popular viewpoint, the South Rim. If you want to get the most out of a visit to the Grand Canyon, you need to decide on your dates and book your accommodation well in advance.
Grand Canyon hotels do sometimes have last-minute vacancies, though few last-minute bargains. You might pick up a good room rate if you wait till the very last minute, and the hotel faces a vacant room. But most Grand Canyon visitors can't do that. They come from all over the world, often in large groups. If you consider that the hotel with the best location right on the South Rim, the El Tovar Hotel, has only 70 rooms and 8 suites – they don't go far among those five million annual visitors.
Another factor is that all of the lodgings are owned by the same company, so there's no competition to produce bargains or lower prices.
You might only see the Grand Canyon once in your life, so make the most of it. Try the hotel booking websites, try pricing a package and then try the hotel's website/phone for a direct price before committing. But remember – he who hesitates is lost.
Some of your options are:
Bright Angel Lodge: Rustic 1930s lodge, sits on the rim and blends in beautifully. Much cheaper than El Tovar (see below) but much simpler. 24 rooms with private bath, 6 rooms with shared bath, 42 cabins, bar, coffee shop and restaurant (dinner only). Great choice if you book well ahead and get a good room.
El Tovar Hotel: National Historic Landmark built in 1905 and retaining that traditional old rustic feel. 70 rooms, 8 suites. Its wonderful restaurant makes it the most comfortable option, but book several months in advance.
Kochina Lodge: Also on the rim, so pay extra for a Canyon view and hope it's a good one. Less expensive than El Tovar, more motel than hotel. 50 rooms. No dining but only a short walk to El Tovar and Bright Angel Lodge.
Maswik Lodge: A short walk from the rim with 250 simple rooms and 28 cabins spread among the trees. Cafeteria for simple dining, sports bar and some entertainment for families
Thunderbird Lodge: Also by rim but less good views. 55 rooms. Popular with families.
Yavapai Lodge: Biggest option with 358 motel-type rooms, short walk from rim in rurral setting near the Grand Canyon RV park. Cafeteria.
