The Grand Canyon National Park hosts nearly five million visitors annually. Although there are seven lodges that offer accommodation in the park, they typically fill up months in advance. Getting a reservation can be difficult. An alternative option is The Grand Hotel–located in Tusayan, within minutes of the South Rim entrance to the Grand Canyon.
A Feel of the Southwest
The sprawling lobby is impressive with a massive flagstone fireplace, Southwestern decor and comfortable leather chairs for relaxing. The lobby flows over into the cafe (where you'll find the only Starbucks coffee being served in the Grand Canyon), the souvenir shop, game room, and the Canyon Star Saloon and restaurant.
Wining and Dining Cowboy-Style
The spacious Canyon Star restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features nightly entertainment such as a singing cowboy or Native American dancers. For breakfast a buffet and menu are offered. The dinner menu specialties include steak, fish and ribs. Warning: The chili is REALLY hot. For a casual cocktail and large screen sports, visit the Canyon Star Saloon.
Outdoor Activities Abound
The hotel does have a concierge that is very knowledgeable of the area and is happy to books tours for guests, whether it be a rafting trip on the Colorado River, hiking in the park or enjoying a horseback ride. If outdoor exercise is not enough, the hotel has a fitness center and heated indoor pool with jacuzzi.
Get a Room
Unfortunately the notable ambiance of the lobby does not carry over to the rooms. All rooms are smoke free. There are various sizes available, but the standard rooms are small and the amenities are basic.
- Shampoo, no conditioner
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Coffee pot
- No refrigerator or microwave
- Pet friendly
Depending on the season and availability, rates can range from $159 to $289. AAA and AARP discounts available. There is one suite in the hotel.
Family Fun
The following amenities will appeal to families:
- Indoor heated pool
- Cribs available
- Laundry service
This hotel does allow pets. The idea is that the guest has to sign a waiver not to leave the pet alone in the room–so as not to disturb other guests with barking dogs. Great in theory.
Bonus Amenities
- Free wireless Internet access
- Starbucks coffee
- On-site restaurant
- Pool and jacuzzi
Word to the Wise
- Bath towels can be scratchy, not soft.
- There is no bathmat in the tub and it tends to be slippery.
- The room TV advertises Pay Per View movies, but the service is not available in most rooms (at the time of publication).
- For those who are not animal lovers, request a quiet room away from those who have pets.
- The "balcony" rooms are about $20 extra–balconies on the ground floor have a view of a stone wall.
Contact Information
The Grand Hotel
State Hwy 64
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
888-634-7263
http://www.grandcanyongrandhotel.com
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