Williams between Route 66 and history

Williams offers several distinct points of interest for planning a trip: the Grand Canyon Railway to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, Route 66 connections and historic sites in town, and seasonal recreational offerings. If you’re looking for a hotel in Williams, you can first consider which themes will shape your plans: a train ride, the town’s history, or outdoor activities. The following places and offerings vary by type and season—from a route through town to a trip to the South Rim and summer activities.

Train Ride and Getting Oriented

The Grand Canyon Railway runs daily from Williams to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Since departure times may change, check the schedule before your trip.

To get oriented in town, the official Williams Visitor Center at 200 W. Railroad Avenue offers a map for a historic walking tour. The center’s exhibits cover the history of Williams.

Route 66 and Historic Sites

The Historic Downtown District spans six blocks. The Williams Historic Business District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The Williams Depot and the original Fray Marcos Hotel are also listed on the National Register.

The Route 66 Museum and Gift Shop displays vintage Texaco clocks and classic Route 66 signs, along with authentic Native American art and geodes. The exhibits therefore bring roadside themes together with art and minerals—a different way to explore the area’s history than its districts and historic buildings.

You can explore a two-mile loop of Route 66 by car in the town of Williams. By contrast, the Grand Canyon Railway travels to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The modes of transport and destinations therefore differ: a driving loop in town or a train ride to the South Rim. Bearizona is in Williams at the intersection of I-40 and US Hwy 64 (Historic Route 66).

Recreational Offerings and Seasonal Planning

Buckskinner Park is open for day use in summer; seasonal operations may change. Its lake is regularly stocked with fish by Arizona Game and Fish. The park also has a trailhead for several trails maintained by the Forest Service.

The Williams Aquatic Center offers seasonal recreational swimming; schedules may change. Check the current schedule if swimming is part of your trip. For seasonal planning, it is also useful to distinguish between the activities specifically associated with summer—day use at Buckskinner Park and mountain tubing—and seasonal swimming at the Aquatic Center.

At Canyon Coaster Adventure Park, the Canyon Coaster runs along a one-mile track. Riders control their own speed. The park’s summer offerings also include mountain tubing.

If you’d like to hike, you can hike Bill Williams Mountain. The Williams area also has four lakes in Kaibab National Forest. This lets you include a mountain hike and the lakes as distinct outdoor themes in your trip planning.

Discover more destinations: Bellemont, Grand Canyon Village, Tusayan, Sedona, Tuba City, Page, Flagstaff

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