Stop by the Visitor Centers, Museums, and Historic Buildings

The Grand Canyon boasts a number of visitor centers, museums and historic buildings, each with unique perspective on this special place. Highlights include a 3-D map at the National Park’s main visitor center, Yavapai Geology Museum, the Kolb Brothers’ photography studio and more.

Grand Rim Adventure: Explore With Us

During this fun-sized learning excursion, a Field Institute instructor will weave the canyon's story on a 3.75 mile (6 km) guided walk on paved trails along the largely flat forested South Rim.

Spend the Day in Desert View

Visit the Desert View area with its iconic, Native American-inspired watchtower, Indian ruins and museum dedicated to the ancient Pueblo Indians.

Papillon Air Tours

Spend a day touring the Grand Canyon by air and get a unique perspective on this amazing natural wonder. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters have been flying guests on daily tours since 1965, and with three exclusive landing sites on the floor of the canyon, the immersive experience they offer is unrivaled.

Take the Shuttle Bus Around the Rim

There are free shuttle buses operating on various routes, which allow you to get on and off at different overlooks, museums and more. The shuttle buses also provide access to a number of hiking trails and cycling routes.

Walk the Trail of Time

This special section of the rim trail (between Yavapai Geology Museum and Verkamps Visitor Center) puts the Grand Canyon’s history and geology in perspective with trail markers representing the canyon’s history, rock samples from each layer and more.

Take a Bike Tour

If you’re looking for a pleasant way to see the sights and get some exercise while you’re at it, this is it. You even get the opportunity to explore parts of the park that are closed to cars. Bicycles can be rented or you are welcome to bring your own bikes to use on the Greenway Trail and other designated bike paths.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Neal

Take a One-Day Hike

Rim Trail, Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail are great places to start if you’re looking for a one-day hike. Hermit Trail and Grandview Trail offer more challenging hikes. Be sure to read up on hiking tips and ways to "hike smart" before you begin your hike.

Photo Ops From Sunrise to Sunset

Sunrise and Sunset are two of the most beautiful photo opportunities at the Grand Canyon. But that’s just the beginning. The Grand Canyon is a photographer’s paradise, whether you’re using a professional-grade camera or just taking selfies near the rim.