The Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its landscapes, scenic rock formations, and dramatic viewpoints. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, here are 5 things to do at the South Rim that will make your trip unforgettable.
My family and I recently had the incredible opportunity to hike from the rim to the river and back, staying overnight at Phantom Ranch. It was a true bucket-list adventure. But even if you’re not tackling such an ambitious hike, there are plenty of amazing things to do at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
1. Take in the Views from Iconic Overlooks
The South Rim boasts some of the most spectacular viewpoints in the world. Each offers a different perspective of the canyon’s vastness and will take your breath away. While the Grand Canyon is awe-inspiring from any angle, certain overlooks provide particularly stunning panoramic views.
Mather Point
One of the most popular viewpoints, especially for first-time visitors. It’s just a short walk from the Visitor Center and offers a great introduction to the canyon.
Yavapai Point
Home to the Yavapai Geology Museum, this overlook provides one of the best places to learn about the canyon’s rock layers while admiring the landscape.
Hopi Point
Located along Hermit Road, this viewpoint is famous for its incredible sunrise and sunset views. It’s also one of the few places where you can see the Colorado River from the rim.
Desert View Watchtower
About 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village, this historic site offers a unique perspective of the canyon and the Painted Desert beyond.
Winter visitors might even catch the canyon covered in a dusting of snow, adding a surreal contrast to the red and orange hues of the rock formations.
2. Hike the South Rim Trails
If you’re not up for a full rim-to-river hike, don’t worry. I actually don’t recommend it, unless you have trained for months. It’s certainly a real challenge and is only suitable for experienced hikers. There are plenty of shorter hikes along the South Rim that provide incredible views without the intense elevation changes.
Rim Trail
This mostly flat trail runs for about 13 miles along the edge of the canyon, offering numerous viewpoints along the way. You can walk as much or as little as you like, and the free shuttle buses make it easy to hop on and off at different points.
Bright Angel Trail (to 1.5-Mile or 3-Mile Rest Stop)
While the full descent to the river is a major undertaking, hiking to one of the rest areas along the trail offers a taste of the inner canyon experience without committing to a multi-day trek. Remember that going down is easy, but coming back up is much harder! Take more water than you think you’ll need, wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of snacks.
South Kaibab Trail (to Ooh Aah Point or Cedar Ridge)
If you want a short but steep hike with jaw-dropping views, head to South Kaibab Trail. Ooh Aah Point is 0.9 miles down and provides one of the best viewpoints in the park.
All hikers should check the weather conditions. Be prepared for extreme heat in the summer. In winter, wear layers, and use traction devices (like microspikes) if there’s ice on the trails.
3. Visit Phantom Ranch (If You Can Get a Reservation!)
For those looking for the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure, an overnight stay at Phantom Ranch is an unforgettable experience. I have done this twice, and even though it seems to take forever to get a reservation, the wait is well worth it! At the bottom of the canyon along the Colorado River, Phantom Ranch is the only lodging below the rim.
Getting there requires either a strenuous hike (via Bright Angel or South Kaibab Trail) or a mule ride. If you manage to grab one of the highly coveted reservations, you’ll be rewarded with a cute, rustic cabin, amazing hearty meals, and the chance to experience the canyon from a whole new perspective.
During my family’s most recent trip, we stayed at Phantom Ranch and loved every moment of it. Waking up in the quiet solitude of the inner canyon, away from the crowds of the rim, was truly magical. If you plan to hike down and back, again, be sure to train beforehand. It’s not for the faint of heart!
4. Explore Grand Canyon Village and Its Historic Landmarks
Grand Canyon Village is more than just a place to grab a meal or a souvenir. It’s a historic destination, filled with fascinating buildings and stories from the past.
El Tovar Hotel
This scenic lodge, built in 1905, has hosted presidents, celebrities, and adventurers. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth stopping by for a meal or a drink at the bar. We did!
Hopi House
Designed by architect Mary Colter, this historic building showcases Native American arts and crafts. It’s a great place to purchase fun souvenirs.
Bright Angel Lodge
Another Colter-designed building, this lodge features a cozy atmosphere, a history room, and one of the best places to grab a casual meal at the rim. Make sure you try the breakfast burrito, especially after a tough hike!
Kolb Studio
Once home to pioneering photographers the Kolb brothers, this museum used to be their studio. It tells the story of early adventurers who documented their dangerous river runs through photography.
Spending time in Grand Canyon Village is a great way to learn about the park’s long history and cultural significance.
5. Experience a Grand Canyon Sunrise or Sunset
One of the most magical moments at the Grand Canyon is watching the sun rise or set over the vast landscape. The changing light transforms the canyon’s colors, like a rainbow slideshow against the sheer rock walls.
Best Places for Sunrise:
Yaki Point
A quieter spot with expansive eastern views.
Mather Point
Convenient and easily accessible from the Visitor Center.
Desert View Watchtower
Perfect for a more remote and peaceful sunrise experience.
Best Places for Sunset:
Hopi Point
One of the most popular sunset spots, with a wide-open view of the horizon.
Mohave Point
Less crowded than Hopi but just as stunning.
Pima Point
Offers a spectacular view of the Colorado River in the distance.
Final Thoughts: Grand Canyon South Rim – 5 Things to Do
Visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience, no matter the season. Whether you’re admiring the views from overlooks, hiking trails, exploring historic sites, or witnessing a terrific sunrise or sunset, there’s no shortage of things to do.
If you’re lucky enough to stay at Phantom Ranch and hike rim to river (or even the famed rim to rim, R2R), you’ll gain an even deeper appreciation for this natural wonder. But even if you stick to the rim, the Grand Canyon’s beauty and grandeur will leave you in awe. It changes me, every single time I visit.
No matter how you choose to experience it, one thing is certain. The Grand Canyon is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left.
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Where to stay on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon:
To stay within the park, book through Grand Canyon National Parks Lodges by clicking here.
For more affordable options just outside the entrance to the South Rim, stay at one of the many options in Tusayan, Arizona. Click this link to discover lodging offers through Booking.com.
How to Get to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is located in Arizona. The most convenient airport is Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Search for good flights to Phoenix by clicking this link.
Some travelers choose to fly to Las Vegas, Nevada. This option is closer to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Flying in and out of Las Vegas is a good idea if you are choosing to see both rims of the Grand Canyon, or just the North Rim. Click here for flight options through Las Vegas.
Getting Around
The easiest way to travel to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is by car. There are many rental car options from Phoenix or Flagstaff. Clicking this link will help you explore the many rental car options for your Grand Canyon vacation.
However you get there, the Grand Canyon will amaze you. Take the time to enjoy this wonderful natural marvel.
