Ten Fun Family Things to Do at the Grand Canyon
Arizona Travel Guide lists ten fun family things to do at the Grand Canyon including trail hikes, mule rides and IMAX movies.
1. Scenic Rim Trail Walk
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the South Rim’s paved Rim Trail, offering breathtaking canyon views suitable for all ages. Stretching from Grand Canyon Village to Hermit’s Rest, this flat, easy path has multiple lookout points and benches for breaks. Kids will love spotting wildlife like squirrels and ravens while parents soak in the stunning vistas.
Phone: (928) 638-7888
Address: South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Website: nps.gov/grca
2. Grand Canyon Visitor Center & IMAX Movie
Start your trip at the Visitor Center, where rangers provide maps and kid-friendly programs. Then, watch the IMAX film Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets on a six-story screen, offering an immersive look at the canyon’s history and geology.
Phone: (928) 638-2468
Address: 450 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Website: explorethecanyon.com
3. Junior Ranger Program
Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge by completing fun, educational activities like scavenger hunts and geology lessons. Pick up a booklet at the Visitor Center, complete the tasks, and receive a badge from a park ranger.
Phone: (928) 638-7888
Address: Grand Canyon Visitor Center, South Rim
Website: nps.gov/kids
4. Bike Rental & Hermit Road Ride
Rent bikes from Bright Angel Bicycles and cruise along the car-free Hermit Road (March–November). The 7-mile round-trip ride offers stunning viewpoints like Hopi Point, perfect for family photos. Trailers and kids’ bikes are available.
Phone: (928) 814-8704
Address: 10 S. Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ
Website: bikegrandcanyon.com
5. Mule Ride Along the Rim
Kids aged 7+ can join a one-hour mule ride along the rim with Canyon Vistas Mule Tours. A gentle introduction to Grand Canyon riding, this experience offers fun and unique views without steep drop-offs.
Phone: (928) 638-9875
Address: Grand Canyon South Rim Mule Barn
Website: grandcanyonlodges.com
6. Desert View Watchtower Visit
Climb the historic 70-foot Desert View Watchtower for panoramic views of the canyon and Colorado River. Designed by Mary Colter, this tower features Native American art and a cool gift shop.
Phone: (928) 638-7888
Address: Desert View Dr, Grand Canyon, AZ
Website: nps.gov/grca
7. Ranger-Led Star Gazing
Join park rangers for an evening of stargazing—Grand Canyon has some of the darkest skies in the U.S.! Telescopes are provided, and kids can learn about constellations. Check schedules for special meteor shower events.
Phone: (928) 638-7888
Address: Grand Canyon Visitor Center (meeting point)
Website: nps.gov/grca
8. Grand Canyon Railway Adventure
Ride a historic train from Williams, AZ, to the South Rim, complete with cowboy characters and scenic views. The round-trip journey includes entertainment, making it a fun family outing.
Phone: (800) 843-8724
Address: 233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046
Website: thetrain.com
9. Picnic at Shoshone Point
Hike the easy 1-mile trail to Shoshone Point, a secluded picnic spot with stunning canyon views. Pack a lunch and enjoy a peaceful family meal away from crowds (accessible by dirt road).
Phone: (928) 638-7888
Address: Shoshone Point Trailhead, South Rim
10. Yavapai Geology Museum
Learn how the canyon formed through interactive exhibits and scale models. The museum’s large windows provide a “live” view of the canyon, perfect for young geologists.
Phone: (928) 638-7888
Address: 1 Geology Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ
Website: nps.gov/grca
Moon 2024 Guide to Arizona and the Grand Canyon
Vast open spaces, dreamy canyons, and colorful culture: experience it all with Moon Arizona & the Grand Canyon. Inside you’ll find:
- Flexible itineraries from a Grand Canyon adventure to two weeks exploring the whole state
- The best road trips in Arizona, including historic Route 66 and scenic byways.
