Trailborn Grand Canyon Blog
Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon Without the Crowds
June 23, 2025
By Trailborn Hotels
The Challenge with Grand Canyon hotels
As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is always capturing global attention–and rightfully so. This massive canyon, which looks incredible in pictures, is humbling and breathtaking in person. However, finding the perfect hotel to call basecamp can be daunting…especially a hotel that does not require reservations years in advance or is too expensive for mediocre accommodations.
Why Avoid the Main Tourist Areas?
Everyone wants to experience the Grand Canyon, but no one wants the packed parking lots, crowded trails, or the stress of finding a decent place to stay right in the park. Especially during peak season, Grand Canyon Village can feel more like an amusement park than a natural wonder.
Meet Williams: Your Gateway to the Grand Canyon
Located just 60 miles south of the South Rim, Williams, Arizona is a charming mountain town that offers scenic beauty, historic character, and easy access to the canyon without the chaos. With direct access to the Grand Canyon Railway and Highway 64, getting to the park is as easy as it is awe-inspiring. Chock full of Americana and whimsy, Williams is the perfect home base for your Grand Canyon Adventure.
What Makes Williams, AZ the Perfect Base?
Access to South Rim in Under an Hour
Whether you drive or take the Grand Canyon Railway, you’ll arrive at the South Rim in under 60 minutes. No crowds, no hassle.
Dining and Culture Without the Crowds
Williams offers retrocafes, whimsical Route 66 diners, incredible restaurants such as Miss Kitty’s, art galleries, and local Western boutiques without the long lines and inflated tourist prices of Grand Canyon Village.
Nearby Trails and Outdoor Spots
Adventures abound nearby at Kaibab National Forest, Sycamore Canyon, or while simply stargazing under the starlit skies of this certified Dark Sky Community.
A Design-Forward Hotel Worth the Detour
Trailborn Grand Canyon in Williams offers more than a place to sleep: it’s a retreat with thoughtful design, local character, and creature comforts. Right next door to the Canyon Coaster with a pool, hot tub, bocce courts, corn hole, and areas for play and relaxation, there’s something for everyone after you’ve explored the Grand Canyon. Whether traveling solo, with family, or on a romantic getaway, Trailborn Grand Canyon’s rooms and surroundings are a peaceful counterpoint to the buzz of Grand Canyon tourism.
