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VISITOR HELPPage, Arizona

Carl Hayden Visitor Center

4.6 (2,183 Google reviews)

Perched atop Glen Canyon Dam, the Carl Hayden Visitor Center pairs sweeping views of Lake Powell with interactive exhibits on Colorado River water, power, and history—an ideal first stop when exploring Page and the eastern Grand Canyon region.

Fully accessible (ADA-compliant restrooms, ramps, tactile exhibits)

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Trip Snapshot

Best Time to Visit
Mar–May & Sep–Oct; arrive before 10 am or after 3 pm for easier parking and softer light on the dam
Open
Open now · 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price Range
Free
Time Needed
Allow 45–60 minutes for exhibits and the overlook
Parking
Free lot for cars, RVs & buses; fills midday in summer
Ideal For
Interactive water-management exhibits, gift/book store, ranger information desk
Reviews from Google
4.6

(2,183 reviews)

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Why Visit Carl Hayden Visitor Center

Perched atop Glen Canyon Dam, the Carl Hayden Visitor Center pairs sweeping views of Lake Powell with interactive exhibits on Colorado River water, power, and history—an ideal first stop when exploring Page and the eastern Grand Canyon region.

Highlights

Glass-wall Overlook – Gaze 710 ft/216 m straight down to the Colorado River.
3-D Relief Map – A 40-ft model of the entire Colorado Plateau.
Ranger Desk & Junior Ranger Program – Get trip planning help and free kids’ activity booklets.

Description

Named for longtime Arizona senator Carl Hayden, the visitor center crowns the west rim of Glen Canyon Dam, two miles north of Page. Inside, multimedia exhibits explain dam construction, regional geology, and the critical role of the Colorado River in the Southwest. A floor-to-ceiling glass wall and outdoor terrace provide postcard views of Lake Powell, while a short film and interactive displays explore water management challenges. Rangers staff an information desk, issue National Park Passport stamps, and lead Junior Ranger activities. Optional guided dam tours start here and descend 528 ft by elevator to the powerplant floor.

History

1956
Construction of Glen Canyon Dam begins.
1963
Colorado River is diverted; dam crest completed.
1966
First Lady Lady Bird Johnson dedicates Glen Canyon Dam.
1968
Interior Secretary Stewart Udall dedicated the Carl Hayden Visitor Center.
1993
Exhibits updated for the dam’s 30th anniversary.
2017
Visitor center reopens after a major security and exhibit renovation.
2020
New interactive water-conservation displays installed.

Features

Glass-wall overlook of dam & river
3-D topographic relief map
12-minute orientation film theater
Interactive water-management exhibits
Ranger information desk & Passport stamp
Junior Ranger program
Gift/book store (Glen Canyon Conservancy)
Accessible restrooms & baby-changing stations
Water-bottle filling station & drinking fountains
Free Wi-Fi (lobby)
Outdoor picnic tables & shaded seating
Free parking for cars, RVs, buses, and boat trailers

Getting There

By Car: Follow US-89; signage for ‘Glen Canyon Dam / Visitor Center’ directs you to the free parking lot. By Tour Bus: Most Page-based sightseeing tours include a photo stop here. By Air: Page Municipal Airport (PGA) is 3 mi/4.8 km south; rental cars and taxis available. By Bicycle/Foot: A shared-use path crosses Glen Canyon Bridge from Page.

Insider Tips

Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.

01Good to know

Arrive before 10 am for the best chance at shaded parking.

02Be prepared

Bring a light jacket

indoor exhibits are air-conditioned year-round.

03Local tip

Photography is welcome; tripods not allowed on dam tours.

04Save time

Service animals only inside; pets may wait in shaded outdoor areas.

05Stay connected

The center observes Arizona MST year-round (no Daylight Saving Time).

06Good to know

Cell coverage is strong; free Wi-Fi available in the lobby.

07Be prepared

Pick up a Lake Powell boating permit and area maps at the desk.

08Local tip

Combine your stop with a short walk across Glen Canyon Bridge for more views.

Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.

View Planning Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the visitor center inside Grand Canyon National Park?

No. It sits at Glen Canyon Dam near Page, about 120 mi from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

Do I need a ticket to enter?

No—exhibits and the overlook are free.

Is parking RV-friendly?

Yes. The lot has oversized spaces for RVs and tour buses.

Are pets allowed inside?

Only certified service animals are permitted indoors.

What’s the elevation here?

About 3,700 ft (1,128 m) above sea level.

Does the center follow Daylight Saving Time?

No. Like the rest of Arizona (except Navajo Nation), it stays on Mountain Standard Time all year.

Can I get a National Parks Passport stamp?

Yes—ask at the ranger information desk.

Quick Information

Hours

Open9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Monday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Saturday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may change. Please call ahead to confirm before you visit.

Best Time to VisitMar–May & Sep–Oct; arrive before 10 am or after 3 pm for easier parking and softer light on the dam

Recommended DurationAllow 45–60 minutes for exhibits and the overlook

ParkingFree lot for cars, RVs & buses; fills midday in summer

FacilitiesInteractive water-management exhibits, gift/book store, ranger information desk

What to BringLight jacket for indoor exhibits, camera for photography

What to WearComfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities
Contact Information
US-89, Page, AZ 86040 (2 mi/3.2 km north of downtown Page)
You are hereUS-89 at Glen Canyon Dam, Page, Arizona

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