El Tovar
Even if you can't afford to stay at El Tovar, you should at least try to visit the lobby or eat in the dining room. Located on the South Rim and built in 1905, El Tovar is a Registered National Historic Landmark. Its guests have included western author Zane Grey, Theodore Roosevelt and Albert Einstein. Although its 78 rooms have modern amenities such as cable television, air conditioning and telephones, El Tovar has retained its historic integrity. The lobby is characterized by its cozy fireplaces and enormous windows, which boast spectacular views of the Grand Canyon.
El Tovar Hotel
West Rim Drive
Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86052
(928) 638-2961
www.grandcanyonlodges.com
Grand Canyon Lodge
The Grand Canyon Lodge is the only lodging venue on the less-visited North Rim of the Canyon. If you dislike crowds, the North Rim is an excellent option. Staying in the North Rim keeps you in close proximity to a number of hiking trails, which include the easy, half-mile Bright Angel Point Trail, the five mile Uncle Jim Trail and the strenuous, 9.4 mile North Kaibab Trail.
Grand Canyon Lodge
Highway.67, North Rim
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ, 86052
(928) 638-2611
www.grandcanyonlodgenorth.com
Bright Angel
The Bright Angel Lodge is located in close proximity to the Grand Canyon Rim; it's within walking distance of the check-in point for the Grand Canyon mule rides. This South Rim lodge was designed in 1935 by architect Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter. It is a is a Registered National Historic Landmark. The old-fashioned ice cream parlor--which is open during the summer months--is the lodge's claim to fame. The casual, family-style restaurant makes this a viable choice for families with children. The lodge also has a history room; it provides a fun learning experience. Rates are low compared to the rest of the canyon.
Bright Angel Canyon Lodge
Highway 64, South Rim,
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ 86023
(928) 638-2611
www.grandcanyonlodges.com/bright-angel-lodge-408.html
Article Written By Lisa Mercer
In 1999, Lisa Mercer’s fitness, travel and skiing expertise inspired a writing career. Her books include "Open Your Heart with Winter Fitness" and "101 Women's Fitness Tips." Her articles have appeared in "Aspen Magazine," "HerSports," "32 Degrees," "Pregnancy Magazine" and "Wired." Mercer has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the City College of New York.
