Where Route 66 meets untamed wilderness and ancient traditions, Williams, Arizona stands as more than just the Gateway to the Grand Canyon. This historic frontier town weaves together thrilling adventures, time-honored traditions, and rich Indigenous heritage into one unforgettable destination.
Looking for a destination that combines history, adventure, and cultural enrichment? Williams, Arizona—known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon—offers an unforgettable journey through time, nature, and Native American heritage. Here are three reasons why Williams should be the next stop on your journey west.
This story was created in partnership with Visit USA Parks.
You Can Time Travel
Williams captures the golden age of American road trips unlike anywhere else, preserving the old school vibes of the Mother Road, Route 66. Start your journey at the Route 66 Museum, where the history of America’s most famous highway comes alive. Stroll down Main Street, where old-timey service stations, vintage cars, and classic diners gleam under the glow of retro neon signs, transporting you straight to the heyday of the great American road trip.
Go back even further in time at the Wild West Junction, where cowboys put their frontier showmanship on full display. Complete with spurs, saddles, and plenty of 10-gallon hats, the performances feel more like re-enactments than entertainment.
New Ways to See The Grand Canyon
Forget the typical tourist visit to the Grand Canyon standing on a crowded overlook waiting for people to get out of the way so you can get a stranger-free photo. Sounds lame, right? It kind of is. Luckily, Williams offers gateway access to one of America’s most famous natural wonders in ways you’ve never imagined, getting you away from the masses and providing rare views of Mother Nature’s masterpiece.
See the canyon from the saddle on a horseback riding tour, the same way Indigenous tribes and Western pioneers would have experienced this rugged landscape. Or, board the historic Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic journey through the high country.
Take to the skies with helicopter tours and skydiving adventures for a bird’s-eye view of this magnificent landscape. For those who prefer to stay closer to ground level, Bright Angel Bicycles offers mountain biking adventures through the area while Grand Canyon UTV tours explore hidden trails and rough terrain.
Immersive Indigenous Education & Experiences
Perhaps one of the most enlightening aspects of visiting Williams is the opportunity to experience Indigenous culture and history. Many sites or near Williams or just a short day trip away, like the Desert View Watchtower. Though constructed less than 100 years ago, the tower draws design inspiration from the Ancestral Puebloan people of the Colorado Plateau and the Hovenweep and Round Tower structures located in Mesa Verde. Spring through fall, Desert View also hosts cultural demonstrations.
In nearby Tuba City, the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum features a stunning example of a traditional Navajo hogan, or home. Another highlight of the museum is the Navajo Code Talkers exhibit, sharing the story and powerful impact of Navajo people and their crucial role in World War II. See memorabilia from the era, including gear, tools, and transcripts, while considering that without the Navajo Code Talkers, many believe the United States Marines would have lost at Iwo Jima.
Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer, Williams, Arizona, offers a unique blend of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. From the nostalgic charm of Route 66 to the majestic Grand Canyon and rich Indigenous heritage, this gateway to the American Southwest promises an authentic journey through time, nature, and culture.
