Ahhhhh-mazing, Beautiful, Spiritual. If you can find your way to the Grand Canyon, SEE IT. It Is Breathtaking!-Happy Girl 🧚♀️
Trip Snapshot
Best Time to Visit
Sunrise & late afternoon; October–April for cooler temps
Open
MON–SUN 00:00–24:00
Price Range
Free
Time Needed
10–15 minutes
Parking
Limited curbside pull‑outs; free business lots 0.1 mi south
If you’re looking for a family adventure that feels like stepping into a giant painting, the Grand Canyon is it. It’s absolutely massive — like, your brain will need a second to catch up once you’re standing there.Safety tip: Hold your kids’ hands like you’re in a parking lot made of cliffs. Some areas have railings, but not everywhere, and the drop-offs are no joke. Also, don’t underestimate how dry the air is — pack twice the water you think you need.
Just prior to arriving at the South Entrance, there will be an exit road on the east side of AZ Route 64, which leads to a good size parking lot. There is also several restrooms with large trash bins at the north end of the parking lot. This is the perfect place for that group photo around the Grand Canyon National Park sign.
I love this place nothing better than being out in nature and seeing one of the seven wonders of the world, especially when you only live about 3 1/2 hours away from it. And also for people who come and visit the state it’s a wonderful attraction as well. I’m sure it could be pretty crowded especially during the summer times or maybe even the cooler months.
Great Day at the Siuth Rim Area. A little busy as it was Sunday. Nice weather for photos of the views.
Why Visit Tusayan Sign
Large stone-and‑timber sign reading “Tusayan – Gateway to Grand Canyon” sits in the town’s northern roundabout, offering a quick, free photo‑op just before the South Rim entrance.
Highlights
Iconic welcome marker at the last town before Grand Canyon South Rim
360° roundabout island provides unobstructed photo angles amid ponderosa pines
Walkable from Tusayan hotels, restaurants and the seasonal Purple Route shuttle
Description
Installed in 2012 during Arizona Department of Transportation’s SR‑64 beautification project, the Tusayan Sign greets more than four million travelers annually. Crafted from local sandstone, weathered steel and rough‑hewn timber, it mirrors Grand Canyon National Park’s rustic architecture while proclaiming Tusayan as the “Gateway to the South Rim.” Illuminated after dark and ringed by paved sidewalks, the landmark has become a must‑shoot selfie spot for road‑trippers, cyclists and shuttle passengers. Visitors should use the marked crosswalks around the roundabout and avoid stopping vehicles on the traffic circle itself.
History
2010
Tusayan incorporates as Arizona’s newest municipality.
2011
ADOT announces $15 million SR‑64 widening and roundabout project.
Jun 2012
Construction of northern roundabout and decorative sign begins.
Oct 2012
“Tusayan – Gateway to the South Rim” sign officially unveiled.
2016
LED uplighting added for nighttime visibility.
2020
Sidewalks and crosswalks upgraded for ADA compliance.
Features
Illuminated welcome sign
Paved sidewalks & marked crosswalks
Interpretive plaque on town history
Nearby restrooms, dining and lodging (≤ 0.2 mi)
Access to free Tusayan–Grand Canyon shuttle (seasonal)
Getting There
Car: 80 mi (≈ 1 h 20 min) north of Flagstaff via US‑180 & SR‑64. Shuttle: Seasonal Purple Route (Tusayan Route) stops at IMAX Theater, 0.1 mi south. Air: Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN) is 1.5 mi south; taxi or shuttle to sign. Bike/Foot: Shared‑use path parallels SR‑64 through town.
Insider Tips
Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.
01Good to know
Use the crosswalk push‑buttons; traffic circles can be busy in summer.
02Be prepared
For night shots, bring a tripod
the LED uplighting gives the sign a warm glow.
03Local tip
Pair the stop with the National Geographic Visitor Center for restrooms and trip planning.
What to Expect
- A busy traffic circle with pedestrians and vehicles.
- A photo opportunity with the illuminated sign.
Photography Opportunities
- Best during sunrise or late afternoon for softer light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking right at the sign?
No. Park in nearby lots or curbside pull‑outs and walk via the sidewalk.
Do I need a Grand Canyon park pass to visit?
No. The sign is outside the park boundary and completely free.
Is the sign lit at night?
Yes, energy‑efficient LEDs illuminate it from dusk to dawn.
Can tour buses stop here?
Large vehicles should use the IMAX Theater bus bay to avoid blocking traffic.
Are pets allowed?
Leashed pets are welcome on the sidewalks surrounding the roundabout.
