Grand Canyon's Gateway Towns

• Stay in Sedona
• 2 Hours to Grand Canyon

• Stay in Flagstaff
• 1.5 Hours to Grand Canyon

• Stay in Williams
• 45 Minutes to Grand Canyon

• Stay at Grand Canyon

With great scenery and tourist attractions, Sedona is the high-end "Aspen, Colorado" of Arizona. Of the gateway cities, Sedona is farthest from Grand Canyon, about two hours. However, it is truly among the most beautiful cities in America. There is epic scenery and hiking, world-class shopping, great resorts and restaurants, and comparatively warmer temperature.

Flagstaff is our largest nearby city, with a University, NAU. Amenities are correspondingly diverse, including
many hotels, restaurants, cultural activities and outdoor opportunities. Flagstaff is about 1.5 hours from Grand Canyon. A beautiful city surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, many trails, and the highest mountain in Arizona.

Williams is tiny and has beautiful lakes and cheaper (but very nice) hotels and BnB's. There are a few good restaurants, too. It is about 45 minutes from the Canyon. You will enjoy the many small-town events, like the funny cowboy shoot-outs each summer evening. Williams is a famous old Route 66 stop. Bearizona is a wonderful wildlife drive-thru park with many animals.

Grand Canyon has limited hotel space both inside and outside the park. Inside hotels are all run by Xanterra, the Grand Canyon consessionaire, accustomed to huge, busy crowds, rustic hotels, and spotty service. Outside hotels are in Tusayan, 15 minutes from the rim and more modern. Book six months to a year in advance. Book El Tovar hotel a year in advance.