Do you have a bucket list of places you want to visit? Our family has several, and the Grand Canyon is high on our list.
At first, we thought the Grand Canyon might not be a good choice for families with young children. However, after doing some research, we quickly changed our minds. There are plenty of family-friendly activities for children of all ages.
Whether your family enjoys nature, history, shopping, or fun attractions, you can find something to enjoy. The KidFriendlyVenue app can also help you find family-friendly places in the area.
What Matters Most to Your Family?
Before planning a Grand Canyon trip, think about what your family enjoys most. This question helped us narrow down our choices.
Families often choose between two main areas. You can stay near Las Vegas, Nevada, and visit the Grand Canyon’s West or South Rim areas. Alternatively, you can stay near the South Rim in Arizona.
The South Rim offers a quieter and more relaxed experience. It also has many natural, scientific, and historic attractions. Las Vegas, on the other hand, offers more entertainment and city activities.
For our family, the South Rim is the better choice. We are most interested in the area’s natural beauty and history.
Stay Near the South Rim
After choosing the South Rim, we had another decision to make. Should we stay inside the national park or outside it?
Several hotels and historic lodges are located inside Grand Canyon National Park. They are popular, but our family prefers modern accommodations and a swimming pool.
Because of this, we plan to stay in Flagstaff, Arizona. It is a short drive from the Grand Canyon and also puts us close to other attractions.
Ride the Grand Canyon Railway
Williams, Arizona, is another place we want to visit. From there, families can ride the Grand Canyon Railway into the national park.
The train offers entertainment and live music during the journey. You can also sit back and enjoy views of the western countryside.
At the end of the day, you can take the train back to Williams and return to your hotel. It makes for a long day, but the experience can be worth it.
Williams is also part of historic Route 66. Families can explore local shops, take photos, and enjoy the town’s classic roadside feel.
For younger children, Bearizona Wildlife Park is another fun option. This drive-through wildlife park lets families see different animals from the comfort of their vehicle.
Explore Flagstaff
Families with older children may enjoy a visit to Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. The observatory was founded in 1894 and is famous for its role in the discovery of Pluto in 1930.
There are other exciting ways to explore the Grand Canyon area, too. Depending on your family’s interests, you might consider a helicopter tour or a guided donkey ride.
Discover the Grand Canyon
Of course, the Grand Canyon itself is the main attraction.
The park offers programs that help children learn about nature and the canyon. Start your visit at the visitor center to learn about available activities for kids.
Young visitors may be able to take part in ranger programs and activities that encourage them to look for plants and animals. These programs can make learning about the canyon fun.
During the day, families can also enjoy hiking and biking. Bright Angel Bicycles offers bike rentals in the Grand Canyon area.
For a family hike, consider easier trails such as the Rim Trail. Yavapai Point is another popular place to enjoy the views.
Don’t Forget the Night Sky
The Grand Canyon is beautiful during the day, but the experience does not have to end when the sun goes down.
At night, the sky becomes the main attraction. On a clear evening, families can see countless stars and parts of the Milky Way.
Even children who are not interested in hiking may enjoy looking at the night sky. Just remember to bring warm layers and check the weather before heading outside.
Visiting With Babies and Toddlers
You may wonder if a Grand Canyon trip is possible with babies or toddlers. The answer is yes, but it takes some planning.
A baby carrier can make it easier to explore trails with a small child. Families should choose activities that match their children’s ages and abilities.
Before your trip, check trail conditions and safety information. You can also use the KFV app to find family-friendly activities and services nearby.
Start Planning Your Bucket List Trip
Our family does not have a date set for our Grand Canyon adventure yet. Still, we are excited to make it happen.
In the meantime, we will keep researching, dreaming, and finding new ideas for our family bucket list. With so many things to see and do, the Grand Canyon looks like a destination the whole family can enjoy.
