Are you looking for the best things to do in Williams? You will feel like you went back in time…
Williams, Arizona is a small city with a population of around 3,000 people in Northern Arizona. Williams is a 20-minute drive to Kaibab National Forest, 60 miles from Grand Canyon, 40 minutes to Flagstaff, and an hour and 15 minutes to Sedona or Prescott.
It is known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon and Route 66.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Williams, Arizona like checking out the historic buildings, shopping at the Valle Travel Stop, exploring downtown Williams, taking a train ride, eating at local restaurants, visiting local museums or you can spend time exploring natural trails through the mountainside.
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Where to Stay
Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
There are many hotels in the Williams if you want to spend the night. The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is a lovely historic hotel with character and charm.
The Lodge Motel
If this isn’t your style, there’s also The Lodge Motel, a cute boutique motel where that offer complimentary breakfast.
Where to Eat in Williams, AZ
Williams has some delicious local restaurants that you don’t want to miss out on! They have everything from barbecue ribs at High Desert Barbecue Company to fabulous Italian food at Station 66 Italian Bistro. There really is something for everyone in Williams, so make sure you’re hungry when you visit!
Here are some more dining choices.
- Grand Canyon Brewing Company
- South Rims Wine & Beer Garage
- Pine Country Restaurant
- Goldie’s Route 66 Diner
Getting Around Town
The best way to learn about the town and its history is by going on a walking tour of historic buildings and train stations. There are so many places to stop at and take pictures.
Here’s a list of things to do in Williams, AZ.
Grand Canyon Railway
The Grand Canyon Railway is a heritage railway that connects Williams, Arizona with the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad’s 64-mile (103-kilometer) track was finished on September 17, 1901.
Enjoy a full-day rail journey. Travel along the same routes that early explorers to the Grand Canyon took.
The train departs from the Williams depot every day at 9:30 a.m. in Arizona Mountain Standard time (except during November/December, when it leaves at 8:30 a.m.). The train reaches the South Rim of the Grand Canyon at 11:45 a.m., one hour later than last year’s timetable.
You can choose your car, schedule, and route when you reserve your ticket.
Canyon Coaster Adventure Park on Route 66
The Route 66 Action Park in Williams, Arizona is a new family-fun park scheduled to open in November 2021. It has a variety of activities for all ages all year. This style of ride is also exclusive to Arizona. Canyon Coaster at Williams is the first and only mountain roller coaster in Arizona!
Kaibab National Forest
The Kaibab National Forest has something for everyone, with activities ranging from canyoneering to horseback riding and everything in between. You won’t want to miss the chance to see us if you’re anywhere near Northern Arizona! The Kaibab National Forest has levels of opportunity for peace, tranquility, and discovery that span from cany
Planes of Fame Air Museum
Every day, at Planes of Fame Air Museum, you may witness history both as an observer and a participant. When one of our planes takes flight, it is a remarkable experience for most people. For over 60 years, Planes of Fame Air Museum has maintained a fleet of flyable historic aircraft! The museum has maintained these kinds of aircraft for longer than
Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum
The historical old-school gas station has been converted into a private museum with old vehicles on display.
Bearizona Wildlife Park
Prepare to be astonished as you get up close and personal with black bears, wolves, jaguars, and pythons in their natural habitat at a conservation park.
The Bearizona Wildlife Park is a one-of-a-kind safari park home located in Williams, an hour south of the Grand Canyon National Park. It’s home to indigenous North American animals that will wow your kids, from the safety of your car.
Get Your Kicks on Route 66 (the historic route)
The name “Route 66” evokes images of historic times, soda fountains, neon lights, vintage vehicles, and pleasure!
Only in Williams, Arizona, will you find a stretch of Route 66 with shopping opportunities, dining choices, lodging options, and cowboy action for the whole family.
Bars and Saloons in Williams, Arizona
Canyon Cocktail Lounge
Canyon Cocktail Lounge is a cute dive bar on historic Route 66. It has pool tables shuffleboard and Karaoke on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. There are also HD flat screens and an outside patio.
The Long Horn Saloon
Step into the Long Horn Saloon for the coldest drinks and the friendliest bartenders in town. Enjoy Old West Hospitality while enjoying a savory bite from the menu.
Shopping
- Route 66 Museum and Gift Shop
- Grand Canyon Railway Gift Shops
- Copper Canyon Trading
- The Gallery in Williams, Inc.
- Buck’s Place
- Native America Shop
Native America Gallery and Gift Shop sell genuine Native American jewelry, Navajo rugs,
basketry, and artifacts. The wares are generally from the Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni Tribes, although they
have samplings of Apache, Pima, Nutka Macaw, Anaszi, and more! You can get some old and buy some new!
Cars of the Mother Road
Cars of the Mother Road has Mini Guided Tours In vintage Cars/Souvenirs & Gift Shops. You may also see Cowboy Reenactments!
Coffee Shops
Brewed Awakenings Coffee Co.
Not only does Brewed Awakening serve locally roasted hot or cold coffee beverages, sweet drinks, and teas, but they offer breakfast and lunch menus that are filled with healthy options. Also offers free wifi and frozen yogurt!
Grand Canyon Coffee and Cafe
Grand Depot Café
Ice Cream Shop
Oh, Sweetie is a cute, retro ice cream shop where they make their own homemade ice cream right in the shop. They also have a variety of homemade candies, fudge, and chocolates.
So, when are you going to Williams, Arizona? I want to hear all about it!
Other Places to Travel in Arizona
Top 5 Things to Do in the Grand Canyon
Things to do in Winslow, Arizona; A Fun Stop on Route 66
Family-Friendly Things to do at Camp Verde
