Staying in Tusayan

Why Tusayan?

If you’re lookin’ for a base camp just outside the gates of Grand Canyon National Park, Tusayan is the spot to hitch yer wagon. This tiny town sits a stone’s throw from the park’s South Rim entrance, makin’ it the closest you can get without bein’ inside the park itself. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time explorin’ the canyon without sacrificin’ modern conveniences. With plenty of lodgin', vittles, and a dash of entertainment, Tusayan’s got what ya need to rest up and fuel your adventure.

Gettin' There

Tusayan might be small, but it’s easy as pie to get to. For folks flyin’ in, your best bets are Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Flagstaff. Las Vegas and Phoenix airports are bigger than a steer’s ego, givin’ you plenty of flight options. From there, it’s a scenic drive through the desert landscapes—about 4.5 hours from Vegas and 3.5 hours from Phoenix.

Flagstaff, on the other hand, is a shorter drive—just an hour and a half—and offers a cozy regional airport. If you’re feelin’ extra adventurous, hop off the plane and drive through Sedona or Williams for a little added charm before reachin' Tusayan.

Where to Stay

Tusayan’s got beds for every type of traveler, whether you’re seekin’ the cushy comforts of a hotel, the charm of a vacation rental, or the simplicity of an RV or campin' setup. Hotels like the Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and the Grand Hotel provide plenty of options with modern amenities.

Prefer somethin’ more unique? There are a handful of vacation rentals nearby, perfect for folks wantin’ a little privacy and a kitchen to whip up their own grub. For the RV crowd, there’s campgrounds and RV parks ready to welcome you with open spaces. No matter how you like to bunk down, Tusayan’s got you covered.

Tusayan Hotels & VRBO

Recommended Restaurants

A cowboy can’t wander the canyon on an empty stomach, and Tusayan’s got enough grub to keep ya satisfied. For some mighty fine Mexican cuisine, mosey on over to Plaza Bonita—it’s my personal favorite! Cravin’ steak? Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse serves up hearty cuts that'll make ya holler "Yeehaw!"

For somethin’ fun, head to the Squire Pub and Social at the Best Western, where you can chow down, knock over some pins at the bowlin’ alley, or play video games in the arcade. Coffee connoisseurs will wanna stop by Foodie Club for a fresh cup to fuel their day. Whatever tickles yer taste buds, Tusayan’s got plenty to choose from.

Want more info on the top 3 spots in Tusayan for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (9 spots total) check out our Half-Day, Full-Day, and Multi-Day Grand Canyon Itineraries.

Grand Canyon Itineraries

The beauty of stayin’ in Tusayan is that you’re just minutes from the South Rim entrance. Roll outta bed, grab some coffee, and you’ll be starin’ at the canyon before ya know it. This close proximity means you can spend as much time in the park as your heart desires, whether it’s a quick half-day jaunt or a multi-day escapade.

Since it’s so easy to pop into the park, we don’t have specific Tusayan itineraries. Instead, we recommend checkin’ out our Grand Canyon Half-Day, Full-Day, or Multi-Day travel guides to plan your perfect adventure.

Shop Itineraries

Now, if you’re takin’ to the skies to get out this way, you’d best be pickin’ yourself a solid home base to fly into and out of, partner! And I’m talkin’ ‘bout Las Vegas, Phoenix, Flagstaff, or even Page, AZ. Those are the gateways to your Grand Canyon adventure!

Pick a Home Base

Tours

If yer lookin’ to saddle up for some unforgettable Grand Canyon tours, Tusayan’s got you covered! Most of the South Rim tour companies call this town home, so whether you’re hankerin’ for a scenic van tour, a heart-thumpin’ helicopter ride, or a guided hike, you’ll find it all right here.

Heck, most outfits’ll even pick you up right from your hotel—talk about service! Now, that there button below takes you to a page for folks wanting tours who are staying in the park, but don’t fret none, those same tours pretty much start and end in Tusayan anyway. Click the button below to mosey on over to our tour page for in-park travelers—it’s the same great tours, just startin’ from Tusayan, like everything else. Adventure’s waitin’, partner!

South Rim (Tusayan) Tours

Other Things To Do

Tusayan ain’t exactly bustling with activities, but it’s got a couple of gems to keep ya entertained. The IMAX movie theater offers a larger-than-life film experience about the canyon, perfect for gettin’ inspired before or after your visit. And don’t forget the hidden bowling alley in the Best Western—great for a little fun after supper. All bowlers welcome, even if you're not bunking there for the night.

Buy IMAX Tickets Now!

A quick note about Valle, AZ

20 miles south of Tusayan you've got some more options.

Now, if you don’t mind drivin’ an extra 20 minutes, you might find yourself in the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Valle, AZ. Valle ain’t got much, but it’s a place to lay your head, grab a bite, and maybe pick up a trinket or two. There’s a decent restaurant, a small hotel, and an RV park—but what really stands out is the abandoned Flintstones amusement park. It’s a peculiar sight, to say the least, and worth a quick look if you’re feelin' curious. Aside from that there are some decent vacation rentals and unique "Glamping" options in the area.

Valle Hotels & Rentals

But heed there ain't no tours comin' and going to and fro Valle. Best to drive into Tusayan and hitch a ride from there.

South Rim (Tusayan) Tours

Let's Wrap This Up!

Tusayan is the perfect base for Grand Canyon explorers who wanna stay close to the action without sacrificin’ modern comforts. With plenty of lodgin’, tasty eats, and easy access to the South Rim, it’s a no-brainer for folks lookin’ to make the most of their canyon adventure. Whether you’re restin’ up or hittin’ the trail, Tusayan’s got just what ya need to make your trip unforgettable. So, saddle up and let Tusayan be your gateway to the Grand Canyon!