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If you want to ensure a memorable vacation, I recommend booking a room in one of the best hotels in the Grand Canyon. With a diverse array of accommodation options, from cabins to lodges, glamping resorts, 5-star luxury hotels, and more, there’s something for every taste and travel style.
To find the nicest hotel in the Grand Canyon, you need to answer a few questions first. For instance, consider how much money you plan to spend, what type of accommodation you prefer, and, more importantly, which Grand Canyon Rim is best suited to your preferences.
After visiting the national park several times, I have compiled the top hotels in the Grand Canyon, based on their location, amenities, and accessibility. You can also check out our guide on tips for visiting the Grand Canyon for more insights to help plan your trip.
1. Bright Angel Lodge, one of the best hotels in Grand Canyon National Park
♦ Grand Canyon Village – from $126/night
The Bright Angel Lodge is one of the best hotels at the Grand Canyon, situated right on the canyon’s edge. Its strategic location by the trailhead of the Bright Angel Trail makes it the perfect choice for avid hikers and anyone who wants to explore the beauty of the South Rim.
As one of the best luxury hotels in the Grand Canyon, this lodge offers a variety of accommodation options. It has 90 lodging units ranging from standard rooms to historic cabins like the Buckey O’Neill Cabin and Red Horse Cabin, two of the best cabins in the Grand Canyon. Most rooms comfortably accommodate 2 to 3 individuals, with some boasting partial canyon views. While most standard rooms and cabins don’t have AC, they feature fans to help regulate the temperature.
Being one of the closest hotels to the Grand Canyon, Bright Angel Lodge offers easy access to attractions via shuttle buses. Additionally, you can unwind by the fireplace in the lobby after a day of hiking and exploring the South Rim.
Dining options include the Arizona Steakhouse, recognized as one of the best restaurants in the Grand Canyon South Rim, Bright Angel Restaurant, and Bright Angel Fountain. If you crave a cold drink after your hike, the Bright Angel Bar awaits with a relaxing atmosphere.
While it comes with a higher price tag compared to other hotels at the Grand Canyon, the professional and friendly staff, superb location, and breathtaking views make this lodge a worthwhile investment.
2. El Tovar Hotel, another nice hotel in the Grand Canyon
♦ Grand Canyon Village – from $286/night
El Tovar Hotel, located directly on the canyon rim, is one of the best hotels by the Grand Canyon, with a history spanning more than a century. This hotel features 78 rooms, each with a unique design and structure, capable of accommodating 4 to 6 guests. Some suites even include a nice porch or balcony, which makes it one of the best hotels overlooking the Grand Canyon.
As the oldest operating hotel at the Grand Canyon, El Tovar has hosted many notable figures, including Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, Bill Clinton, Paul McCartney, and Oprah Winfrey, who chose this historic establishment as an ideal base to discover the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Moreover, the El Tovar Dining Room is one of the best restaurants in the Grand Canyon. There’s also a cozy coffee shop and a bar in the hotel, offering a relaxing space to enjoy a drink. Finally, you can purchase souvenirs at the gift shop to commemorate your visit to the Grand Canyon.
However, what we liked the most was its hospitable environment and staff. The property goes the extra mile by providing wheelchair-friendly facilities – something you won’t find at some of the nearby hotels. Plus, its excellent location by several attractions makes it one of the best Grand Canyon South Rim hotels. Be sure to check out the Matrimony “Heart” Rock, just 5 minutes away, and the Grand Canyon Railway, which is just out front.
3. Kachina Lodge, the best hotel at Grand Canyon Village
♦ Grand Canyon Village – from $299/night
If you are looking for a more modern accommodation in the South Rim, Kachina Lodge is your best bet. As one of the closest hotels to the Grand Canyon, it provides easy access to many must-visit attractions and some of the best hikes in the Grand Canyon South Rim.
This lodge consists of 49 rooms, featuring either two queen beds or one king bed. Each room boasts a contemporary and comfortable setting, complemented by excellent facilities to ensure a memorable stay at one of the top hotels in the Grand Canyon. I highly recommend booking a room with captivating rim-side views.
With an unrivaled location at the heart of the historic district, just between El Tovar and Bright Angel Lodge, Kachina Lodge is close to many restaurants and gift shops inside Grand Canyon Village. We decided to stay here after hiking the Rim-to-Rim Trail, and we were thoroughly impressed by the convenience and comfort Kachina Lodge offered.
Despite being one of the closest hotels to the Grand Canyon, Kachina Lodge is one of the most budget-friendly options inside the Village.
4. Maswik Lodge, one of the top hotels at the Grand Canyon South Rim
♦ Grand Canyon Village – from $233/night
Maswik Lodge is another fantastic Grand Canyon hotel located in a ponderosa pine forest about a mile from the canyon’s edge. It’s a particular favorite among nature lovers as it allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of Grand Canyon National Park. Maswik Lodge consists of a north and south lodge, with a main building where you can find the registration desk and a gift shop.
The North rooms, situated in twelve two-story buildings, provide comfortable and affordable lodging with rooms for 4 to 6 guests. On the other hand, Maswik South has 90 eco-friendly guest rooms, 30 of which have kitchenettes. These rooms also feature amenities not always available in older lodges, such as air conditioning, satellite TV, a private patio, and roll-in showers.
You can also explore the Maswik Food Court, just a short walk away. It has four food stations and offers a variety of breakfast selections, home-style lunches, and dinner entrees. However, for those times when nothing beats a hot, delicious pizza, make sure to check out the Maswik Lodge Pizza Pub.
Although not situated directly at the rim like the previously recommended options, Maswik Lodge is still close to the best hikes in the Grand Canyon, and you can always use the shuttle to get to your favorite viewpoints. Moreover, it’s considered a popular hotel in the Grand Canyon South Rim in terms of value for money, so check it out if you’re traveling on a budget.
5. Thunderbird Lodge, one of the best budget-friendly hotels in the Grand Canyon
♦ Grand Canyon Village – from $263/night
Thunderbird Lodge is another one of the closest hotels to the Grand Canyon, constructed in the 1960s in Grand Canyon Village. While offering a contemporary setting, this charming lodge retains its connection to the natural beauty of its surroundings. As one of the cheapest hotels in the Grand Canyon, this lodge is also a popular choice for families and budget-conscious travelers.
It has 55 well-appointed, clean, and spacious rooms. Some boast scenic canyon views, while others offer glimpses of the charming Historic Village. Most rooms accommodate 4 to 6 guests, with rollaway/extra beds available for a surcharge and free cribs provided for families traveling with children. Notable amenities include a business center, a meeting room, and a nice and cozy picnic area.
The lodge has an on-site cafeteria-style restaurant serving Native American dishes and continental cuisine. Exploring the dining hall itself is an adventure where you can find impressive examples of Navajo Rugs and artwork on the walls, some even available for sale. You may also notice a vault-like room in the middle of the dining hall, which was once a jail for the trading post that used to be here. The restaurant is an excellent spot to grab a coffee or a quick bite before visiting the mesmerizing viewpoints in the Grand Canyon South Rim.
6. Yavapai Lodge, one of the top Grand Canyon hotels for traveling with pets
♦ Grand Canyon Village – from $133/night
Yavapai Lodge located at the South Rim, stands out as one of the best hotels at the Grand Canyon. It is recognized as the biggest facility inside Grand Canyon National Park, offering contemporary, refurbished rooms with an array of amenities within walking distance.
Yavapai Lodge is divided into two main areas. The East area comprises six separate two-story buildings, while the West area offers ten single-story Mid-Century Modern buildings. The 358 rooms that comprise this lodge are impeccably clean and well-lit, accommodating 3 to 5 guests each. Plus, good news for pet owners! Yavapai Lodge is one of the top pet-friendly hotels in the Grand Canyon, allowing your four-legged friends to have an equally enjoyable experience.
As for dining options, you can enjoy delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Yavapai Dining Hall, which offers buffet-style service and a self-serve salad bar. It’s a popular dining spot in Grand Canyon Village, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. And if you’re in the mood for a cold drink or a hot cup of coffee, you can visit the Yavapai Café on the opposite side of the building.
We decided to stay here for a night, and I can assure you that it is the best hotel near the Grand Canyon South Rim. With clean facilities, helpful staff, and a pleasant atmosphere, it offers all you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, it’s close to Desert View Drive, which leads to some of the best viewpoints in the Grand Canyon.
7. Grand Canyon Lodge, one of the best hotels at the Grand Canyon North Rim
♦ Grand Canyon North Rim – from $187/night
If you’re planning a North Rim adventure, there’s no better place to stay than the Grand Canyon Lodge. As one of the best hotels on the Grand Canyon North Rim, it offers a wide array of accommodations ranging from cabanas and cabins to standard rooms.
The lodge’s clean and comfy rooms accommodate 2 to 6 guests, and rollaway beds are available for an additional $15. While there is no AC, there are ceiling fans and heaters in the bathroom and living area.
Modern amenities like TV and Internet access are extremely limited here, but that’s the point! Unwind on the porch rocking chair and fully embrace the raw beauty, seclusion, and stunning vistas of the North Rim. At mealtimes, enjoy the historic dining room, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views.
The lodge’s excellent location allows you to enjoy various attractions at the North Rim. If you want to experience one of the best views of the Grand Canyon, the famous Bright Angel Point is just a short walk away. Behind the complex, you’ll find the Transept Trail, one of the best hiking routes in the North Rim offering breathtaking views of Bright Angel Point and Bright Angel Canyon.
Remember, the North Rim is closed during winter, so the lodge is only open from mid-May to mid-October. If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon in winter, I recommend one of the other options in this guide.
8. Cabins at Grand Canyon West, another one of the best hotels near the Grand Canyon
♦ Grand Canyon West Rim – from $219/night
Cabins at Grand Canyon West is a lovely hotel with a view of the Grand Canyon. Located just 5 minutes from the West Rim, this accommodation is the best option if you’re planning to visit the Grand Canyon Skywalk.
Each cabin boasts a private bathroom equipped with a shower, air conditioning, as well as all the essentials needed for a comfortable visit. Most units can accommodate up to 6 guests, with a larger suite available for 8, making it one of the best hotels near the Grand Canyon West Rim for group tours and family trips.
As one of the best hotels in the Grand Canyon West Rim, the property offers a wealth of amenities, including a picnic area, outdoor furniture, and a patio where you can relax. The nearby Hualapai Ranch Dining Hall is the best dining option in the area, serving local cuisine and traditional American BBQ, complemented by musical entertainment. Additionally, you can stop by the Root Beer Saloon, located just five minutes from the cabins, for a cold beverage and assorted snack options.
What I loved about this place, aside from its breathtaking setting, was the plethora of activities available, from campfire evenings and live shows to zip-lining and white-water rafting. If you want a more exhilarating experience, I recommend taking one of the top Grand Canyon West Rim helicopter tours. Moreover, booking this hotel comes with an extra perk – you will receive two complimentary general admission tickets to Grand Canyon West.
9. Grand Canyon Western Ranch, one of the top hotels at the Grand Canyon West Rim
♦ Grand Canyon West Rim – from $179/night
Grand Canyon Western Ranch is one of the best hotels by the Grand Canyon, located in a historic ranch dating back to the early 1900s. Situated 15 minutes from the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, it offers a unique Old West-style experience reminiscent of Western Hollywood movies. The property is positioned just two hours from Las Vegas, making it the perfect destination for those taking a road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.
Each cabin features a porch, a fireplace or a wood-burning stove, and en-suite bathrooms equipped with showers or antique claw-foot tubs. Additionally, if you want to experience camping in the Grand Canyon, the Ranch offers glamping tents adorned with Western-style decor. It’s no wonder why this place is considered one of the nicest hotels in the Grand Canyon.
And there’s more to the excitement! As the sun sets, you can enjoy nightly campfires featuring live music, delightful wagon rides, and a Western gun range for that true Wild West feel. The on-site restaurant at the Ranch takes the culinary experience up a notch with a diverse menu offering generous portions, kid-friendly options, and a well-stocked bar.
Whether it’s the comfort of a cowboy cabin, the unique vibe of a glamping tent, or the thrill of the Overnight Cowboy Camp Out, you are guaranteed an unforgettable Wild West adventure at the Grand Canyon West Rim.
10. The Grand Hotel, one of the nicest hotels near the Grand Canyon
♦ Tusayan – from $120/night
The Grand Hotel is one of the best hotels in Tusayan, offering luxurious amenities and top-notch services. It’s an excellent alternative for when all the hotels inside the park are fully booked, as Tusayan is the closest town to the South Rim, just 7 miles away.
The Grand Hotel provides four types of rooms accommodating 3 to 9 guests. All units are equipped with private bathrooms and showers, air conditioning, comfortable beds, and all the essential amenities. The warm and welcoming atmosphere invites visitors to experience the utmost comfort at one of the best hotels near the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
The hotel features a fine dining restaurant, the Canyon Star Steakhouse, as well as the Canyon Star Saloon, one of the most charming bars in Arizona. You’ll notice that some of the barstools were made from the original saddles used by mule runners in the old days.
As one of the top hotels in the Grand Canyon, The Grand Hotel ensures guests have access to everything they need for an enjoyable visit. The lobby boasts a cozy fireplace where you can unwind, and there’s an indoor swimming pool and hot tub for relaxing. The well-stocked gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, apparel, arts, crafts, and jewelry. Additional amenities include the Grand Fitness Center, the Grand Business Center, and the Parlor Room.
And that concludes our guide on the best hotels at the Grand Canyon. These accommodations ensure an enjoyable stay while exploring all the exciting things to do in the Grand Canyon. For more options, make sure to check out our guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon.
Below, you’ll find a map of the top Grand Canyon hotels so you can find them without any problems. I also suggest consulting our Grand Canyon map to navigate the area more easily and our guide to camping in the Grand Canyon if you’re up for a more adventurous stay.
If you have any questions or wish to share your experiences while staying at one of the best Grand Canyon hotels, leave a comment below. I’d be happy to hear from you.
Enjoy your time at the Grand Canyon!