How to Get to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas - All You Need to Know | 2024
The Grand Canyon is a perfect destination for any US road trip. This magnificent geological formation spans over 277 miles and attracts millions of visitors each year.
While the Grand Canyon National Park can be accessed from different locations, getting there from Las Vegas is a popular choice for many tourists.
However, planning a visit to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas can be overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the transportation options and routes available.
So, read this quick guide to get some clarity on how to get to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.
Most Recommended Thing to Do
Visit the Bellagio Fountains.
Top Choice Hotel
The Venetian Resort is a top choice hotel in Las Vegas, United States of America.
Our Top Choice Restaurant
Joël Robuchon
Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife
XS
Best Time to Visit
Avoid extreme heat in summer, visit in spring/fall.
Average Temperature
Hot. Desert. Dry. Scorching. Summers. Mild. Winters.
Transportation Options
Taxi, bus, monorail, rideshare, rental car, walking, biking.
Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)
$$
My Top Recommendation
If you're looking to make the most of your time here, I highly recommend exploring the famous Las Vegas Strip, where you can immerse yourself in a sea of dazzling lights, iconic resorts, and endless entertainment venues.
Then head to the Fremont Street Experience, where you can witness the nostalgic charm of old Las Vegas while enjoying live music, street performers, and an incredible array of dining options. Whether you're strolling down the Strip or diving into the lively atmosphere of Fremont Street, Las Vegas is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience that you'll cherish for years to come.
What You'll Need to Bring
- Valid identification (such as a passport or driver's license)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight clothing for the warm weather
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Some cash and a credit/debit card
- A camera or smartphone to capture the sights
- Any necessary prescription medications
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Entertainment for long flights or road trips
- An open mind and sense of adventure
What Not to Miss
- The iconic Las Vegas Strip
- Fremont Street Experience
- High Roller Observation Wheel
- Bellagio Fountains
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- Neon Museum
- The Mob Museum
- Hoover Dam
- Stratosphere Tower
- The Downtown Arts District
What to Avoid
- Overlooking Fremont Street
- Ignoring the local dining scene
- Overspending on shows
- Playing at high-risk casinos
- Underestimating the desert climate
- Failing to explore beyond the Strip
- Disregarding personal safety
Table of Contents
Getting to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon South Rim or Grand Canyon West Rim? That is the question when planning a trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.
The Grand Canyon is located about 270 miles east of Las Vegas. There are two main areas of the Grand Canyon that visitors typically go to: the South Rim and the West Rim.
The South Rim is located within the Grand Canyon National Park, while the West Rim is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. Now let's see some more about the south rim and we will cover the west rim later.
Grand Canyon South Rim
The Grand Canyon South Rim is the most popular and accessible part of the Grand Canyon. It is a 6-and-a-half-hour drive __from Las Vegas. To get there, you can take a rental car, a shuttle bus, or book a tour.
If you're driving, take Highway 93 South to Highway 40 East, then follow the signs to the Grand Canyon. The entrance to the park is located in the town of Tusayan, just outside the park's boundaries.
Fun Facts About the Grand Canyon's South Rim
The Grand Canyon's South Rim is home to the Desert View Watchtower, a historic 70-foot stone tower that was designed to resemble an ancient Puebloan watchtower.
The tower offers stunning panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and the surrounding landscape, and its interior features beautiful murals and intricate designs inspired by Native American art.
The tower on the south rim was built in 1932 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a popular spot for visitors to take in the beauty of the Grand Canyon and learn about the history and culture of the region.
Grand Canyon West Rim
The Grand Canyon's West Rim is about a 2-and-a-half-hour drive from Las Vegas.
To get there, you can take a rental car or book a tour. If you're driving, take Highway 93 south to the Diamond Bar Road exit, then follow the signs to the Grand Canyon West Rim.
Note that the Grand Canyon's West Rim is not part of the Grand Canyon National Park and requires a separate admission fee.
Fun Facts about the Grand Canyon's West Rim
The Grand Canyon West Rim is home to the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass-bottomed bridge that extends 70 feet out over the canyon's edge.
You need separate tickets to go on the Skywalk, so be sure to book those before you arrive if you want to try this out.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is 4,000 feet above the floor of the canyon and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The glass-bottomed surface allows visitors to see the canyon floor below them, which can be an exhilarating and unique experience.
From here, you can visit Guano Point viewpoint for unparalleled views of the canyon.
Grand Canyon Tours from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon tours are the perfect way to visit the Grand Canyon and experience the wonder of this incredible natural landmark. There are a variety of tours available to suit every budget and preference.
Whether you want to explore the Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim, or the Grand Canyon West Rim, or take a bus tour through the park, there's something for everyone.
One of the most popular tours is the Grand Canyon bus tour, which offers visitors a comfortable and informative way to see the park's many stunning vistas.
These tours from Las Vegas obviously depart from Sin City and include stops at the Grand Canyon Village, Mather Point, and other key locations within the park.
Visitors can also choose to take a helicopter or airplane tour to get a bird's-eye view of the canyon.
If you're interested in visiting the Grand Canyon West Rim, consider taking a guided tour that includes a stop at the Skywalk Glass Bridge or Eagle Point. These tours provide a unique perspective on the canyon and its surrounding landscape.
Transportation Options
There are many transportation options to get to the Grand Canyon. According to the National Park Service, around 6 million people visit the Grand Canyon annually, and you can be one of them.
Consider all the options and decide which one suits you and your budget the best.
Rental Cars
Renting a car is a convenient way to get to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. You can rent a car from various rental companies in Las Vegas and drive to the Grand Canyon at your own pace.
However, note that parking at the Grand Canyon can be limited, especially during peak season. Make sure to book your parking spot in advance.
The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. The most common route is to take US-93 South to I-40 East, and then exit at Highway 64 North to the Grand Canyon.
Here are some concise driving instructions:
- From Las Vegas, take US-93 S towards Boulder City.
- In Boulder City, merge onto US-93 S/US-95 S towards Kingman, Arizona.
- Continue on US-93 S for approximately 70 miles.
- Turn left onto Pierce Ferry Rd and continue for about 28 miles.
- Turn right onto Diamond Bar Rd and continue for approximately 22 miles.
- Follow signs to the Grand Canyon West entrance.
Bus Tours
Taking a bus tour is a popular way to get to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.
The bus also tends to be the cheapest way to explore Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, and everything in between. There are several bus tour companies that offer day trips from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon South Rim and the West Rim.
These tours typically include transportation, admission to the park, and lunch. Some tours also offer additional activities, such as helicopter or boat tours.
Check with your hotel or local tour operator for options. Typically, the bus will pick you up from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Las Vegas.
The bus will then travel to the Grand Canyon, usually taking around 3 hours to reach the destination. Once at the Grand Canyon, the bus will make stops at different viewpoints within the park.
Helicopter Tours
Taking a helicopter Grand Canyon tour is a unique and exciting way to see the Grand Canyon from above.
Helicopter tours depart from Las Vegas and fly over the Grand Canyon's most spectacular sights, including the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Grand Canyon South Rim.
A helicopter tour can be expensive, but they offer an unforgettable experience. Depending on the tour, prices can range from $200 to $500 per person.
During the ride, you'll get an incredible bird's-eye view of the canyon's unique rock formations, the Colorado River, and the surrounding forests.
The ride typically lasts around 30 minutes to an hour and provides an unforgettable experience that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Note that helicopter rides can be very noisy so if you have any issues with that talk about it with the agency before you schedule the ride.
Airplane Tours
Taking an airplane tour is another option for those who want to see the Grand Canyon from above.
Airplane canyon tours depart from Las Vegas and fly over the Grand Canyon South Rim, the Grand Canyon North Rim, the West Rim, and Hoover Dam, on the Black Canyon.
These tours are more affordable than helicopter tours but offer a less intimate experience and you will be able to get the most amazing pictures of the fire state park.
Trains to the Canyon
Taking a train to the Grand Canyon is a unique and scenic option for travelers.
The Grand Canyon Railway offers a historic train ride from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. So, you will have to get to Williams from Vegas.
The train departs daily from Williams and arrives at the Grand Canyon Depot, which is just a short walk from the entrance to the national park. You could stay overnight at the Railway Hotel next to the train depot to break up your journey.
The train ride is an experience in itself, with vintage train cars and an old-fashioned steam engine that chugs through the beautiful Arizona landscape. Along the way, passengers can enjoy live music, Old West cowboy entertainment, and even a staged train robbery.
There are __several classes of service available, from coach to luxury parlor cars, and prices vary depending on the class and time of year.
The train ride takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, and passengers have a few hours to explore the South Rim before the return trip to Williams.
Overall, taking the train to the Grand Canyon offers a fun and unique way to travel and is a great option for those who want to experience the charm of an old-fashioned train ride while enjoying the stunning views of the Grand Canyon.
Note that the Grand Canyon is only 60 miles from Williams, AZ on the historic Route 66. So, you can also drive this route to experience part of this iconic road trip. Stop off at the Grand Canyon Caverns on Route 66 during your day trip.
The Best Time to Visit Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon can be visited all year round, but the best time to do a day trip depends on your preferences.
The peak season is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the park can be crowded during this time, and prices for tours and accommodations can be higher.
The off-season is from October to April when the weather is cooler, and the park is less crowded. It will be easier to spend a few days during that time and to stay overnight if that is what you wish.
Once you land at the West Rim and visit Eagle Point you will be able to get the best pictures so what are you waiting for? This state park is a must-see destination for everybody.
Major Attractions on the Trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
The Las Vegas to Grand Canyon route is rich in amazing sights and attractions. As you make your way toward the Grand Canyon, there are several noteworthy stops that you should consider visiting.
1. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
One of the first stops along the way is the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This massive reservoir, created by the Hoover Dam, offers a wide range of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
The park is also home to several hiking trails and scenic overlooks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Boulder City and Boulder Dam
As you continue on your journey, you may also want to stop in the town of Boulder City. This charming community is located just outside of Las Vegas and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.
Boulder City is also home to the historic Boulder Dam Hotel, which offers a glimpse into the town's past as a hub for dam workers.
3. Kingman Railroad Museum
Another major attraction along the way to the Grand Canyon is the Railroad Museum. This fascinating museum showcases the history of the railroad in the American West and features a collection of vintage trains, locomotives, and other artifacts.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum, learn about the railroad's impact on the region, and even climb aboard a restored train for a ride.
4. Kaibab National Forest
As you make your way through the scenic route toward the Grand Canyon, you will come across the Kaibab National Forest.
This beautiful forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers visitors the opportunity to hike, fish, and camp in the great outdoors.
The forest is also home to several scenic drives, including the Jacob Lake Scenic Byway and the North Rim Parkway, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Zion National Park
Another must-see attraction along the way to the Grand Canyon is Zion National Park. This stunning park is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the American West, including towering red rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and pristine canyons.
Visitors can hike one of the park's many trails, take a scenic drive through the park, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. If you love national parks, you can also check out Bryce Canyon while you are in the area.
6. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
As you make your way closer to the Grand Canyon, you will come across the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. This beautiful park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and offers visitors the opportunity to hike, camp, and explore the desert landscape.
The park is also home to several unique geological formations, including the famous Wave rock formation, which draws visitors from around the world.
7. Eagle Point, Colorado River, and Grand Canyon Village
Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon, there are several major attractions to explore. Eagle Point is one of the most popular destinations within the Grand Canyon, offering visitors stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding canyon walls.
Visitors can also take a guided tour of the canyon, explore the Grand Canyon Village, or even take a helicopter ride over the canyon.
8. Antelope Canyon
If you're looking for a unique and memorable experience during your Grand Canyon trip, consider visiting Antelope Canyon.
This stunning slot canyon is located just outside of Page, Arizona, and is known for its beautiful red rock formations, narrow passageways, and otherworldly beauty.
Visitors can take a tour of the canyon, or simply explore on their own.
9. Bearizona Wildlife Park
Another major attraction near the Grand Canyon is this Wildlife Park. This unique park is home to a variety of North American wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison, and elk.
Visitors can drive through the park and observe the animals in their natural habitat, or take a tour of the park's many exhibits.
The Visitor Center
The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a must-visit location for anyone traveling to the Grand Canyon. Located near the South Rim entrance of the Grand Canyon National Park, the center provides a wealth of information about the park and its history.
Inside the center, visitors can find interactive exhibits, informative displays, and educational programs about the Grand Canyon's geology, ecology, and human history. There are also helpful park rangers on hand to answer any questions and provide guidance for visitors.
In addition to the exhibits and programs, the center is also home to a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to the Grand Canyon.
Overall, the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the park and learn more about its natural wonders and fascinating history.
FAQs About Trips From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
Let's answer some commonly asked questions when planning to take a trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.
Are airplane tours of the Grand Canyon expensive?
Airplane tours from Vegas to Grand Canyon are actually cheaper than helicopter tours. These tours will still cost considerably more than the bus tours, however, so you should consider taking a coach to the Canyon.
If you want to see the canyon and Hoover Dam from above, the price may be worth it for you.
Can I take a tour of the Grand Canyon from my Las Vegas hotel?
Yes, there are Grand Canyon tours from Vegas that do hotel pick-up and drop-off services. Many tours to the Grand Canyon South and West rims will start from the Las Vegas Strip, and the likelihood is that your hotel is also located on the Las Vegas Strip.
Many tours also incorporate a stop at Hoover Dam.
When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon's West Rim?
The best time to visit the Grand Canyon West Rim is during the months of March through May or September through November, when the temperatures are milder and the crowds are smaller.
Grand Canyon tours are also smaller so you will get more one-on-one time with your guide.
What should I bring on my Grand Canyon trip?
Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and dress in layers for your South Rim, North Rim, or West Rim canyon tour. The Grand Canyon is a vast and hot place, and you will need to stay hydrated on the many hiking trails.
Summing Up: How to Get to The Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
In sum, visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas is an unforgettable experience that offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
From hiking along the many trails to taking exhilarating adventure tours, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a group, tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon provide a convenient way to explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
So, if you find yourself in Las Vegas, make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon and create memories that will last a lifetime.
