Grand Canyon south rim - 2024 thanksgiving

Question

We are really excited to be visiting the grand canyon south rim after 14 years, this time with 2 kids (13 and 7 yrs). We will get there from Las Vegas by late afternoon of 28th (thu-thanksgiving) and are staying at Yavapai village...will hopefully get there well before sunset. Is Yavapai point the best option for sunset views? Anything else we could plan that evening?

We will be there the whole of next day (29th) and leaving for SoCAL the 30th morning. Any suggestions on what we could do the full day we have. At this point just had a high level thought of doing the sunrise (of course!), the rim trail and then take the shuttle to a few points. We also wanted to do the video at the visitor center (but thought we might do it the evening before just to get a good start and info for the kids). Is the geology museum inside the visitor center? Look forward to any inputs.

Answer

Visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim over Thanksgiving with kids can be an incredible experience! Since you’ll be arriving late afternoon on the 28th and staying at Yavapai Lodge, you’ll have just enough time to catch the sunset and get oriented.

For sunset on Thanksgiving evening:

Yavapai Point: This is indeed one of the most popular sunset spots due to its panoramic views of the canyon and good vantage over the Colorado River. It’s an excellent choice for your first evening, especially with kids as it’s easily accessible.
Mather Point: Very close to Yavapai Point and the Visitor Center, it can get crowded but offers sweeping canyon views. If time allows, you could quickly stop here as well.
Hopi Point: Accessible via the park shuttle or by car, this spot is renowned for dramatic sunsets with long shadows and colorful rock formations. It’s a bit further west along the Rim Trail but worth it if you’re not too tired.

Additional evening options:

Take a brief walk along the Rim Trail near Yavapai or Mather points—short and easy for the kids.
Visit the Yavapai Geology Museum (open until late afternoon, so check closing time) to get a preview of canyon geology—this could help the kids understand what they’re seeing at sunset.

For the full day on the 29th:

Sunrise: Catch the sunrise at Yaki Point or Mather Point. Yaki Point tends to be less crowded but requires shuttle access in high season, so plan accordingly.
Rim Trail: Ideal for easy, scenic walks along the edge of the canyon. Sections near Yavapai and Mather Points are paved and stroller/kid-friendly. You can pick up and drop off along shuttle stops.
Shuttle Stops: Consider visiting Hopi Point, Mohave Point, and Grandview Point using the free park shuttle system. Each offers unique views and short walking opportunities.
Visitor Center: Great for a stop with kids. The geology museum is located inside the Yavapai Geology Museum, which is separate from the Visitor Center building. Both provide educational exhibits and videos—doing the video the evening before is smart to engage the kids early.
Junior Ranger Program: Check in at the Visitor Center; kids can complete activities and earn badges. It’s fun and educational.

Other tips:

Dress in layers; late November can be cold, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Bring snacks and water, especially for the kids, since restaurants may be crowded on Thanksgiving.
Arrive at popular viewpoints early to avoid peak crowds and ensure good photo spots.

With this plan, you’ll get a balance of scenic vistas, educational stops, and kid-friendly activities without rushing, making for a memorable Grand Canyon visit.

Grand Canyon south rim - 2024 thanksgiving

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