Williams, Arizona: 12 Best Things to Do in the Gateway to Grand Canyon

Just 59 miles south of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Williams, Arizona wears two hats with equal pride. This mountain town of 3,627 residents serves as both the last vestige of historic Route 66 and the premier launching point for Grand Canyon adventures. Perched at 6,770 feet in the Kaibab National Forest, Williams combines genuine Western charm with world-class access to one of the planet’s natural wonders.

While roughly 5 million travelers pass through Williams annually en route to the canyon, those who pause discover a town that rewards curiosity. Historic Route 66 runs straight through downtown, where restored storefronts house quirky museums, family-owned restaurants, and one-of-a-kind attractions. From the legendary Grand Canyon Railway to the world’s only dinosaur poop museum, Williams punches well above its weight in memorable experiences.

Why Visit Williams, Arizona?

Williams earned its “Gateway to the Grand Canyon” title honestly. Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway has carried millions of passengers to the canyon rim. When Interstate 40 bypassed Williams on October 13, 1984—making it the last town on Route 66 to be circumvented—residents doubled down on preserving their heritage while embracing their Grand Canyon gateway role.

The result is a town where you can photograph the world’s largest Route 66 shield sign before boarding a vintage train to the Grand Canyon, then return for craft cocktails in a prohibition-era speakeasy. Williams offers authentic small-town atmosphere with attractions substantial enough to anchor a multi-day stay. At nearly 7,000 feet elevation, summers here are refreshingly cooler than the desert below.

12 Best Things to Do in Williams

1. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway isn’t just Williams’ flagship attraction—it’s living American history carrying passengers to the canyon since 1901. This authentic train route made the Grand Canyon accessible decades before paved roads reached the rim.

Your journey begins at the restored Williams Depot with a staged Wild West gunfight. Board vintage rail cars from Coach Class to luxury Observation Dome seating for the 65-mile, 2-hour-15-minute journey through ponderosa pine forests to the canyon.

Musicians stroll through cars sharing Western ballads while the train marshal spins railroad tales. Coach Class tickets start at $70 for adults and $40 for children, while First Class runs $140 for adults and $110 for children. During Polar Express season (November 7-December 30, 2025), the railway celebrates its 25th anniversary of bringing this beloved story to life.

2. Explore Bearizona Wildlife Park

Bearizona flips the traditional zoo concept—you drive through 160 acres where North American wildlife roam in natural habitats. Your vehicle becomes the enclosure as you navigate 3+ miles of terrain, getting remarkably close to bears, wolves, bison, and bighorn sheep.

What elevates Bearizona above typical roadside attractions is its conservation mission. More than 50% of the animals are rescues that couldn’t survive in the wild. After the drive-through (opens daily at 8 AM), explore Fort Bearizona’s walk-through area featuring smaller animals and birds of prey demonstrations. At approximately $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 4-12, it’s one of Williams’ best values.

3. Conquer the Canyon Coaster Adventure Park

Arizona’s first mountain coaster opened in Williams in 2022, sending you twisting and plunging through forested mountainside on 6,500 feet of track. You control the speed—push the hand brake forward for maximum velocity or pull back to cruise. Each rider controls their own cart, perfect for families with varying thrill tolerances.

Beyond the signature coaster, the park offers the Skybike (pedaling along an elevated rail system), Euro Bungy trampolines, and climbing walls. It captures that sweet spot of excitement without extreme adventure, making it accessible to most ages.

4. Stroll Historic Route 66 Downtown

Williams holds the distinction of being the last town bypassed by Interstate 40 in 1984. Rather than fading, Williams transformed downtown into a beautifully preserved corridor of Americana along the Mother Road.

Walking downtown feels like stepping into a time capsule with excellent coffee shops and craft breweries. Historic storefronts house Route 66 memorabilia shops, Western wear boutiques, and locally-owned restaurants. The crown jewel is the World’s Largest Route 66 Shield Sign at Circle K—an Instagram-worthy pilgrimage site. The Art Deco building in the Historic District offers equally striking architectural details from America’s road-tripping heyday.

Summer evenings bring locals and visitors to sidewalks and outdoor patios. It’s authentic small-town America with just enough polish to be thoroughly enjoyable.

5. Visit the Poozeum (Yes, Really)

Williams’ quirkiest attraction might be its most unforgettable. The Poozeum, which opened in May 2024, is the world’s only museum dedicated to coprolites—fossilized poop. And yes, it’s free.

What could have been a gimmick is surprisingly educational, curated by paleontologist George Frandsen, who holds the Guinness World Record for the largest coprolite collection. Hundreds of specimens span millions of years, from tiny prehistoric rodent droppings to massive dinosaur deposits revealing ancient diets and ecosystems.

Kids absolutely love it. But adults find themselves surprisingly engaged too. Where else can you examine fossilized Tyrannosaurus rex feces and actually learn something? It captures Williams’ quirky personality perfectly.

6. Meet the Animals at Grand Canyon Deer Farm

Since 1969, the Grand Canyon Deer Farm has been one of Williams’ most beloved family attractions. This interactive petting zoo expanded beyond deer to include miniature donkeys, wallabies, reindeer, talking parrots, and everything from miniature horses to towering camels.

Armed with feed cups, kids interact directly with animals in this traditional roadside attraction run by the same family for generations. In an era of screen time, watching children light up while feeding a gentle deer feels refreshingly simple. The farm operates seasonally (typically spring through fall), so check ahead during shoulder seasons.

7. Browse Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum

Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum offers free entertainment celebrating the golden age of American automobile travel. Owner Pete Thelander has amassed vintage gas pumps, neon signs, road maps, and memorabilia transporting visitors to the 1950s, when attendants pumped your gas and cleaned your windshield.

What makes this museum charming is its informality. Pete or his staff share stories behind various items, explaining connections to Route 66 history. You’re browsing a passionate collector’s treasure trove, not walking through roped-off displays. It’s a quick stop (20-30 minutes) that adds delightful context to your Route 66 experience.

8. Hike to Sycamore Falls

When you need to escape the tourist corridor, the hike to Sycamore Falls delivers spectacular rewards. This approximately 11-mile round trip descends into Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, revealing towering red rock walls, riparian vegetation, and rare solitude. When flowing (typically spring through early summer), water cascades over red rock cliffs in an oasis-like setting.

This isn’t a casual family stroll—bring proper hiking boots, plenty of water, and reasonable fitness. But for genuine wilderness within striking distance of Williams, it offers an alternative to more developed Grand Canyon trails. Spring is your best window; the falls run dry later in summer.

9. Experience Wild West Junction

Wild West Junction combines Old West theming with family-friendly entertainment through an Old West town replica, mining exhibits, and interactive frontier experiences. The attraction appeals to families with younger children who love exploring replica buildings and imagining frontier Arizona life.

It works best as part of a day hopping between Williams’ family attractions—plan to spend an hour or two letting kids burn energy while appreciating nostalgic frontier recreation.

10. Soar on the Route 66 Zipline

For aerial thrills without leaving town, the Route 66 Zipline offers quick bursts of adrenaline against ponderosa pine forest backdrops. Multiple lines of varying lengths and heights allow progressive confidence building, with professional guides handling all safety equipment and instruction.

At Williams’ 6,770-foot elevation, the crisp air and forest views make it an achievable outdoor adventure within an hour or two—perfect for adding variety to your itinerary.

11. Fish and Explore Kaibab and Dogtown Lakes

Williams sits surrounded by Kaibab National Forest, where two nearby lakes offer peaceful escapes into ponderosa pine country. Kaibab Lake and Dogtown Lake provide trout fishing, picnicking, camping, and easy hiking showcasing northern Arizona’s high-country beauty.

These lakes shine during summer when Williams’ elevation provides relief from Arizona’s desert heat. Pine-shaded picnic tables, shoreline trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities (watch for elk and deer) create a refreshing counterpoint to tourist attractions. It’s where locals relax—a window into authentic Williams beyond Route 66.

12. Catch the Nightly Cowboy Shootout

During summer months, downtown Williams comes alive each evening with a staged Wild West shootout that’s become a town tradition. Local actors portray outlaws and lawmen in scripted gunfights complete with period costumes and plenty of (blank) gunfire.

Is it touristy? Absolutely. Is it also genuinely entertaining? You bet. Kids are thrilled by the action while adults appreciate the lighthearted theatrics. The shootout typically takes place around 7 PM on the main Route 66 thoroughfare—free entertainment adding festive energy to summer evenings, pairing perfectly with dinner at nearby restaurants.

3 Local Insider Tips

Escape the Crowds at Bill Williams Mountain Trail: While tourists crowd Bearizona and the Railway, locals seeking solitude head to Bill Williams Mountain Trail. This challenging 7.9-mile hike climbs to 9,256 feet, offering panoramic views across northern Arizona. The trail’s infamous “dirty dozen” switchbacks test even experienced hikers, but summit views make it worthwhile. Start early during summer—afternoon thunderstorms are common in high country.

Discover Williams’ Hidden Restaurant Gems: Beyond the Route 66 corridor, Williams hides authentic dining experiences locals cherish. Dara Thai Twisters combines Thai cuisine with 1950s American diner aesthetics in a fusion that shouldn’t work but does. Nanys Tacos serves authentic Mexican food beyond Tex-Mex. Pine Country Restaurant has been serving homemade pies for generations—arrive early because popular varieties sell out.

Capture Iconic Photos Beyond the Obvious: Everyone photographs the World’s Largest Route 66 Shield Sign at Circle K, but locals know the Art Deco building in the Historic District offers equally Instagram-worthy architectural details, especially during golden hour when warm light illuminates its 1920s period features.

Where to Stay in Williams

Williams offers lodging from historic railroad hotels to budget-friendly chains. The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel provides the most atmospheric option, with depot proximity and Western-themed elegance capturing Williams’ dual identity as Grand Canyon gateway and Route 66 town.

Budget-conscious travelers will find national chain motels along Route 66 and near Interstate 40 exits, plus historic motor court-style properties with modern amenities. Book ahead during peak summer months and especially Polar Express season when the Railway Hotel fills months in advance.

Where to Eat in Williams

Williams’ dining scene delivers surprising variety for its small-town scale. Route 66 restaurants range from classic diners serving massive breakfasts to upscale establishments offering elk steaks and craft cocktails. The Sultana Bar, housed in a 1912 building with prohibition-era tunnels, combines craft beverages with legitimate history.

Cafes along the main drag serve excellent coffee and pastries perfect for fueling up before Grand Canyon adventures. Evening options span pizza joints, steakhouses, and those hidden local gems mentioned earlier, most within easy walking distance of downtown hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Williams, Arizona proves that gateway towns don’t have to be forgettable highway stops. With genuine history, family-friendly attractions, and enough quirky personality to stand on its own merits, Williams rewards travelers who look beyond the interstate exits. Whether you’re boarding the historic train to the Grand Canyon or discovering the world’s only fossilized poop museum, Williams delivers experiences you won’t find anywhere else—and isn’t that what travel should be about?