Family-Friendly Adventures in Grand Canyon Village, AZ!

Desert View Drive

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking family adventure along Desert View Drive, a scenic route that offers some of the most stunning vistas of the Grand Canyon. This 25-mile journey along the South Rim is accessible by car, making it an ideal way for families to explore at their own pace.

Start: Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Begin your journey at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Here, you can grab a park map and learn about the day’s ranger-led programs—perfect for curious kids. There’s ample parking, and it’s a great spot to have a picnic lunch while enjoying expansive views.

Stop 1: Yaki Point

Accessible via the free Kaibab Rim Route Shuttle (no private vehicles allowed), Yaki Point offers spectacular sunrise views. It’s less crowded, allowing your family to enjoy a peaceful look at the canyon"s vastness and the Colorado River twisting below.

Stop 2: Grandview Point

Drive to Grandview Point, the highest overlook on Desert View Drive. It provides a dramatic panoramic of the canyon. The area was once a mining site, and the history can be an exciting tale for the kids. Take caution as the edges are steep and not all areas are railed.

Stop 3: Tusayan Museum and Ruin

Midway along Desert View Drive, stop at the Tusayan Museum and Ruin to provide an educational twist to your trip. This small museum showcases the history and culture of the Indigenous tribes that lived in the area. The adjacent ruin offers a glimpse into an 800-year-old Puebloan village, great for sparking kids" imaginations.

Final Stop: Desert View Watchtower

Conclude your tour at Desert View Watchtower, a 70-foot high stone building offering one of the finest overlooks of the Grand Canyon. Climb the tower to see murals inside and enjoy panoramic views from the top. The watchtower, designed by architect Mary Colter, was inspired by the architecture of the ancestral Puebloan people, adding a touch of history to its grandeur.

Each stop offers picnic areas and restroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day for the whole family. Remember to bring water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera to capture the unforgettable memories.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Eagle Point

Why Visit?

Family Fun Itinerary in Eagle Point, Oregon

Day 1: Outdoor Adventure at Eagle Point National Park

- Morning: Start your Eagle Point adventure with a morning hike at Eagle Point National Park. From downtown Eagle Point, take a 15-minute drive via Royal Ave and Alta Vista Rd to reach the park. Trails like the Ridgeview Trail offer easy routes perfect for kids, featuring scenic overlooks of the valley.

- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the park’s designated picnic area, where tables and grills are available.

- Afternoon: Visit the nearby Fish Lake, just a 20-minute drive north, offering fishing, canoeing, and swimming. Rent equipment from the Fish Lake Resort.

Day 2: Local Culture and History

- Morning: Head to the Butte Creek Mill, a 5-minute drive from central Eagle Point. Rebuilt after a fire, this historic mill dates back to 1872 and provides a fascinating look at old milling techniques with interactive exhibits perfect for kids.

- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at the Mill’s bakery, known for its fresh bread made using the mill’s own flour.

- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at the Eagle Point Museum, an easy walk from the mill. Dive into local history through artifacts and stories that paint a vivid picture of the area’s past.

Day 3: Relax and Explore Downtown

- Morning: Stroll through downtown Eagle Point. Start at the Eagle Point Library for a morning of storytelling sessions (check schedule).

- Lunch: Grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant like Bobbio’s Pizza, known for its fun atmosphere and delicious, kid-approved menu.

- Afternoon: Conclude your visit with a leisurely afternoon at Chamberlain Park. Just a 10-minute walk from downtown, this park offers a playground, open green spaces, and a safe environment for children to play.

This itinerary balances nature, history, and relaxation to ensure your family experiences the best of Eagle Point!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Desert View Watchtower

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to the Desert View Watchtower, a captivating 70-foot high stone building located at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. This unique cultural landmark, designed by architect Mary Colter in 1932, offers breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into the rich history and art of the Native American tribes associated with the Grand Canyon.

Getting There

Desert View Watchtower is about a 25-minute drive (22 miles) east of Grand Canyon Village along the Desert View Drive (State Route 64). The route is scenic, so have your camera ready to capture the stunning landscapes and occasional wildlife.

Morning - Explore the Watchtower

Start your visit early in the morning to enjoy the watchtower in the soft, warm light. Climb the tower to observe the Colorado River and the canyon"s vast expanses. Inside, marvel at the beautifully restored murals by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie, showcasing Hopi mythology and culture. The interior also features rustic, Pueblo-inspired architecture, making it a great educational spot for kids to learn about Native American history and art.

Midday - Picnic at Desert View Point

Adjacent to the watchtower, find a perfect picnic spot at Desert View Point. Enjoy a family picnic with spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. There are several picnic tables and ample space for kids to play.

Afternoon - Visit the Desert View Visitor Center

Conclude your tour at the nearby visitor center. It offers educational exhibits about the geological formations of the canyon and the cultural history of the area. Kids will enjoy the interactive displays, and the whole family can benefit from talks by Park Rangers.

Fun Fact

The watchtower is not only a National Historic Landover but was also built to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, appearing as a part of the Grand Canyon skyline.

Remember to check the weather, carry water, wear sun protection, and have a memorable visit to the Desert View Watchtower!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Cameron Trading Post

Why Visit?

Nestled near the eastern edge of the Grand Canyon on the Navajo Nation, Cameron Trading Post offers a fascinating blend of Native American culture and stunning Southwest landscapes, perfect for a family-friendly adventure.

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Start your day early by driving to Cameron, Arizona. It"s accessible via Highway 89, about a 30-minute drive from the East entrance of the Grand Canyon or an hour from Flagstaff. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Native American arts and crafts at the trading post. Established in 1916, this historic site offers a unique opportunity to see authentic Navajo rugs, Hopi kachinas, and Zuni silverwork. The Gallery showcases exquisite artwork and often features live demonstrations.

Lunch: Taste of the Southwest

Enjoy lunch at the Cameron Trading Post restaurant. Don"t miss trying the Navajo taco on homemade frybread—a local favorite! The dining area provides views of the beautiful surroundings, adding to the serene dining experience.

Afternoon: Little Colorado River Gorge

Post-lunch, take a short 15-minute drive north on Highway 89 to the Little Colorado River Gorge. Here, you can marvel at the dramatic vistas and learn about the geological and cultural history of the area. The gorge offers several lookout points that are safe for children, providing perfect photo opportunities against the backdrop of the expansive canyon.

Evening: Sunset & Souvenirs

Return to the trading post to catch the sunset from the nearby suspension bridge, offering panoramic views of the Colorado River. As the day winds down, browse the gift shop for souvenirs—pottery, jewelry, and crafts make wonderful keepsakes and gifts.

By spending a day at Cameron Trading Post and its surrounding attractions, your family can enjoy an enriching experience that combines education, culture, and natural beauty in one of Arizona’s most picturesque settings.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival at Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Start your adventure at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, easily accessible from major nearby cities like Las Vegas or Phoenix by car or shuttle. Upon arrival, check into one of the family-friendly lodges or campsites inside the park. Spend your afternoon exploring the visitor center, where interactive exhibits introduce the canyon"s geology, ecology, and history. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring film at the Grand Canyon Theater, offering a great overview and stunning visuals of the area.

Day 2: Exploring the South Rim

Begin your day early with a short drive or shuttle ride to Mather Point, a perfect spot for sunrise viewing. The point offers panoramic views of the canyon and is just a short walk from the visitor center. After sunrise, hike part of the Rim Trail, a relatively flat path ideal for families, providing numerous magnificent viewpoints and photo opportunities. Stop at Yavapai Geology Museum, where kids can learn about the canyon’s ancient rock formations through interactive displays.

In the afternoon, take the free shuttle bus to explore other scenic points like Hopi Point, known for its expansive views of the inner canyon and the Colorado River. Make sure to participate in a Ranger Program, where you can learn about local wildlife and geology in an engaging way tailored for all ages.

Day 3: Fun at Bright Angel Trailhead

Dedicate your third day to exploring the Bright Angel Trail. Start at the Bright Angel Trailhead near the Grand Canyon Village. Enjoy a guided mule trip down the trail - a safe and exciting way for the family to experience steep parts of the canyon without the hike. For a shorter journey, walk just to the 1.5-mile resthouse and back, which is manageable for kids and offers incredible views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Each evening, wind down by attending a stargroup program or a Native American storytelling session, creating a perfect end to your Grand Canyon family adventure.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.