Decent hotel near South Rim?

Question

I have looked at the hotels and lodges inside the Grand Canyon but it seems that they are either overpriced, outdated or dirty.

I have looked a few hotels in nearby Tusayan but again a lot of mixed reviews. A lot are being scored under 4 out of 5 stars.

Are there any good hotels or hidden gems that I have missed which score higher within close proximity to the South Rim?

Will be coming from Scottsdale in a hire car but was hoping to stay close to the South Rim for 2 nights to see a sunset and a sunrise.

Answer

Finding a good hotel near the Grand Canyon’s South Rim that is both affordable and comfortable can be tricky, especially with the high demand and mixed reviews for many places. If you’re looking to stay within close proximity to the South Rim for sunset and sunrise views, there are a few options that might meet your needs without the hefty price tag of the in-park accommodations. Here are some suggestions for hotels that could be worth checking out:

1. Hotels Inside Grand Canyon Village:

While you mentioned that the hotels inside the park are often overpriced, there are a few options that may still be worth considering, depending on availability. These accommodations are closest to the canyon, offering easy access to sunrise and sunset views:

El Tovar Hotel: This is one of the most famous historic hotels within the park. Though it tends to be on the pricier side, it is often considered the best option for its location and historic charm. If you can snag a reservation at a slightly lower rate, it could be a great choice for being so close to the rim.
Bright Angel Lodge: Another in-park option with more affordable rates than El Tovar. It offers rooms and rustic cabins. It is located near the Bright Angel Trailhead, which is perfect for those wanting quick access to trails or canyon viewpoints. The historic charm is similar to El Tovar, but it’s less expensive.

2. Hotels in Tusayan (Outside the South Rim):

If you're looking for options outside the park, Tusayan is the nearest town, located just 7 miles from the South Rim entrance. While some hotels have mixed reviews, there are a few that stand out for their quality and proximity to the park entrance:

The Grand Hotel: This is one of the higher-rated hotels in Tusayan. It’s an upscale, modern hotel with amenities like an indoor pool and a great restaurant. The rooms are spacious, clean, and relatively modern. Many guests have praised the hotel for its comfortable stay and proximity to the South Rim, making it a solid choice for families or couples.
Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn: Another solid choice in Tusayan. It offers a range of rooms, an indoor pool, and a restaurant. The hotel is known for being family-friendly and is just a short drive from the South Rim. Although some reviews mention it could use some updates, it generally gets good marks for cleanliness and comfort.
Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon: This is a more budget-friendly option in Tusayan, offering a free breakfast, clean rooms, and basic amenities. It’s a good choice for those who want a reliable hotel with fewer frills. It’s also just a few minutes from the park entrance, making it convenient for early morning and late evening trips to the South Rim.

3. Hidden Gems and Alternative Options:

If you're open to other options beyond the standard hotels, here are a couple of "hidden gems" you might consider:

Red Feather Lodge: Located just outside Tusayan, this lodge offers a quieter, more relaxed stay with rustic charm. It has solid reviews, particularly for its peaceful atmosphere and spacious rooms. It's a short drive from the South Rim and could offer a bit more privacy and quiet compared to some of the larger hotels.
Canyon Plaza Resort: While this option is in Tusayan and has mixed reviews, many guests have mentioned it offers good value for money, clean rooms, and a short distance to the park entrance. The amenities are standard, but it’s a decent choice for those not looking for luxury but still wanting a comfortable stay close to the park.

Additional Tips for Your Stay:

Book Early: Grand Canyon accommodations, especially those close to the South Rim, fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times in summer. If you haven’t already, booking as early as possible will give you more options and better prices.
Consider a Sunrise/Sunset Shuttle: If you're concerned about parking, you can also use the Grand Canyon shuttle service. It’s free, and there are several routes that go to the main viewpoints, including Sunrise and Sunset Points. The shuttle service can save time, especially when the parking lots near the South Rim get crowded.

In conclusion, for a comfortable stay close to the South Rim, consider The Grand Hotel or Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn in Tusayan for a balance of comfort, quality, and proximity to the park. If you're looking for more budget-friendly options, the Holiday Inn Express or Red Feather Lodge are both great choices. If you can snag a spot at Bright Angel Lodge or El Tovar, those offer unbeatable convenience for early morning and sunset viewing right from the park. Regardless of where you stay, be sure to plan ahead, as the Grand Canyon attracts a lot of visitors, especially in June.

Decent hotel near South Rim?

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