Williams in Arizona is essentially the gateway to the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon Railway is located here and attracts tourists from all over the world.
Apart from that, Williams is also home to scenic spots like the Sycamore Canyon and the Kaibab National Forest.
The historic Route 66 also runs through the city.
To experience all of it, you need to plan a vacation here.
Here are the best things to do in Williams, Arizona:
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Williams’ top attraction is the one and only Grand Canyon Railway.
The best thing about this railroad is that it takes you through Arizona’s beautiful countryside en route to your final destination: the one and only Grand Canyon.
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It takes almost two and a half hours to get there, and the train leaves every morning.
The train is reminiscent of the 19th century, and you can learn about its history while you are on board.
You might even spot an elk or a mule while on the train.
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Apart from the Grand Canyon, Williams is accessible to another wonder of a canyon.
It also happens to be the second-largest one in the Red Rock Country.
Apart from boasting vibrantly colored rocks, the Sycamore Canyon has some of the best flora and fauna.
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There are no proper roads through the canyon, which attracts the adrenaline junkies more.
You can go camping here and spend more time exploring.
There are no lights in Sycamore, so the night views are more blissful.
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Route 66 is one of the most historical places in Williams.
You need to walk through this iconic street at least once when you’re in the city.
The route runs through prime parts of Williams, so the location is quite excellent, and you will find a lot of crowds, too.
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Running through downtown, Route 66 has some of the best shops and eateries.
If you are looking to shop for souvenirs, this place is home to many boutiques and gift shops.
There are also a lot of restaurants where you can enjoy a good meal.
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The nightlife is fantastic here as well.
When you stroll around the area, you will see a lot of buildings that resemble the old historical ones.
Many old buildings have been renovated and now form the quirky shops that you’ll see.
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Route 66 used to be one of the most famous highways, and at Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum, they love to relive the old days.
Want to learn more about the history of Route 66?
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Head inside.
The museum has some vintage cars and pieces of equipment used to fix cars back in the day.
There’s also a gift shop where you can shop for souvenirs.
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While you are on Route 66, there is something else for you to check out.
It’s a cute and quirky place.
The Grand Canyon Deer Farm has been around for ages, and people love this spot.
It’s one of the best spots to visit with the whole family.
Besides deer, you’ll also see another famous creature: Mozart the cockatoo!
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Bearizona Wildlife Park is home to black bears, mountain goats, and wolves.
You can see them from a close distance.
You have to take a car while you drive through the park.
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Alternatively, you can join one of the shuttle bus trips provided by the park.
On these trips, they take you around the park and show you the best sights there are to see.
They also tell you stories about the wildlife.
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Williams Depot is a must-visit on your trip to Williams.
Did you know this is one of the oldest stations in the States?
In 1882, a train departed from this station for the very first time.
There is a lot of history attached to the station.
Nowadays, this station only serves as the depot from where the Grand Canyon rail operates, but in the old days, this place was the primary means of communication.
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The Kaibab National Forest is a great place to learn about the history of the old inhabitants of Williams.
When these inhabitants lived here, the city was not yet established.
Though they resided here 1,000 years ago, the Kaibab National Forest contains remnants of these people.
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The languages in which they talked have been engraved in different places throughout the forest, and you can see all of them even today.
People mainly explore Kaibab National Forest to learn more and see some historical spots.
History buffs especially love this place.
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While you are in the Kaibab National Forest, you should head over and look at the Beale Wagon Road Historic Trail.
It’s 1,240 miles long.
The trail is open to hikers of all skill levels.
This beautiful trail has a lot of lovely views for you throughout its length.
There are a lot of photogenic spots here, so don’t forget to bring your cameras.
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If you’ve heard stories about the Wild West, have you always imagined it to be something excessively cool and quirky?
The Wild West Junction has worked to keep this image alive.
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Many locals and tourists gather here to get the essence of the past as things here still work the way they used to.
The entire place is decorated like an old town.
You can even find an old pretend jail and a town hall.
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The Planes of Fame Air Museum is another exciting destination in Williams.
It houses some of the best collections of aircraft.
Some of them can fly even to this day.
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There are even a lot of fighter jets present in this collection of aircraft.
Among the many displays, one that captures quite a lot of attention happens to be the 475th Fighter Group collection.
You can even find models like a Curtiss Warhawk P-40N or a Douglas Skyraider AD-4N.
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Valle Travel Stop is located where Arizona State Route 64 meets US Route 180.
The shop might look like a typical one, but you will find a plethora of products to choose from when you look inside.
They sell a variety of gift items that make for great souvenirs.
You can also drop by this place after exploring the Grand Canyon National Park, as it is close to the entrance.
This shop is also attached to the Grand Canyon Inn, so you can eat there if you are feeling hungry.
Do you want to get an inside view of the Grand Canyon?
Most tourists witness the canyon from above, but you can also see how it looks from the opposite side.
The Inner Canyon Tour allows you to get to the bottom of the canyon.
They provide cars or buses that take you along Route 66, through the outskirts, and down along the winding roads of the canyon.
Grand Canyon Brewing Company has both a brewery and distillery in one place.
There is also a tasting room with beers on taps where you can taste samples.
Did you know that Grand Canyon Brewing Company’s craft beer is so good that it’s exported all the way to Korea?
What was once just a family-owned brewery in Arizona now has multiple branches in Nevada.
So, what are you waiting for?
Get here and try some of their best brews.
Their Grand Canyon Expeditions Wheat Ale is a local favorite!
There are many hiking options in Williams, and the trails around the Grand Canyon are some of the best.
You can either have a guide let you know which trails are accessible and would be best for the day, or you could do a little homework and find out which one is most appropriate for your preference and skill set.
The most renowned trails include the Bixler Saddle Trail and the Dogtown Lake Trail.
Almost every adventure lover enjoys those two particular trails on trips to Williams.
If you are looking for something with more length and good views, the Kendrick Mountain Trail comes highly recommended.
This trail also has some of the best views, too.
This visitor center is located immediately off of Historic Route 66.
Friendly and expert staff are available to assist travelers and help them get the most out of their Northern Arizona vacations.
As a former railway station turned educational resource center, this location offers much more than the typical information center fare.
The facility has a concierge service that makes appointments for tourists and gives thorough information on tours.
One of the main attractions at this facility is the Grand Canyon and its neighboring villages in northern Arizona.
The City of Williams owns this 18-hole course, a fantastic destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.
When you think of romantic activities in Williams for couples, a golf course may not be the first location that springs to mind.
It may be a romantic experience unlike any other because of the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
As a bonus, it’s a great chance to get to know one other and play a sport together.
Learn to play or perfect your swing at this nearby golf course.
You may also have refreshments and yummy treats in the clubhouse.
There are more than 4 miles of thrilling twists and turns on this family-friendly circuit.
Located on the Circle Pines property, this outdoor go-kart track will add a dash of excitement and thrills to your vacation.
Of course, the facility has food and refreshments available for those who need a pick-me-up.
You and your friends or family may race each other at this park.
Try the chicharrones and sopapillas as well!
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The Route 66 Zipline is an exhilarating adventure that takes thrill-seekers right off the historic Route 66.
Attractions such as the zip line initially launched in June 2013 and have been a popular draw since.
Zip lining is an excellent option for a good time with family or friends.
Sometimes, people’s screams can be heard throughout the city as they fly over Williams.
The zip lines are unusual because riders will be sliding down the lines in side-by-side seats instead of harnesses.
Because of this, more minor children may enjoy the zip lines just as much as their older counterparts.
There is no better place to sample the local wine than at the Grand Canyon Wine Company’s tasting room.
A unique distinction is their ability to brew craft beer while simultaneously producing award-winning wine in Arizona.
You may sample local artisan beer and wine in a relaxed atmosphere while having a good time with your significant other.
This family-owned and run winery is devoted to making locally created wine using only the best ingredients available.
For those who want a more refined experience, the winery’s tasting area is adorned with earth-tone hues, bistro-style tables, blackboard menus, and an L-shaped bar.
This charming mountain village is a must-see for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
Save this Williams, Arizona travel guide for future reference, and start planning your visit now!
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