She created Wander In Arizona to share first-hand information about traveling to the many fantastic cities, trails, national parks, monuments and more as she continues to explore.
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There are plenty of awesome things to do in Williams AZ with something in store for every type of traveler.
Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”, Williams, located in the northernmost part of the Coconino National Forest, lies on the iconic Route 66 in northern Arizona.
Williams is a charming town where culture meets history meets outdoors, and it is the perfect destination if you are looking to go beyond the crowded places in Arizona.
Hidden in the heart of the Kaibab National Forest at 6,770 feet, Williams is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
You can spend a week or more easily, exploring the outdoors, enjoying hiking, biking, kayaking, climbing, and boating.
It is one of the most underrated AZ small towns as most people only stop overnight or use the town as a base to explore the magnificent Grand Canyon National Park.
Plus, despite its splendid location tucked away amidst the wilderness, you can easily extend your trip to nearby cities like Flagstaff, or plan a road trip to Sedona.
I was guilty of doing this as well.
In my plans to visit Grand Canyon during different seasons including spending a week in winter in the Grand Canyon, it had not occurred to me to check out this small town until after a few trips.
Well, also, being home to under 5000 residents only, Williams AZ does not advertise itself as a typical tourist town too.
I am glad I did spend a weekend in Williams AZ finally.
It was one of the most memorable experiences for me walking down the memory lanes and checking out the history of the Old Wild West.
Williams Arizona is the perfect small town to get transported back in time to witness the remains of the Old West, amidst lush conifer trees, rugged canyons and buttes.
If you’re planning to visit the Grand Canyon, a road trip drive across Route 66, or just fancy exploring a unique small town, check out this guide to the fantastic things to do in Williams AZ.
If you need a quick escape to the outdoor areas, check out these 5 Prettiest Lakes In Williams, Arizona.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS
VISIT GRAND CANYON RAILWAY
One of the top 10 things to do in Williams AZ is the Grand Canyon Railway.
Since 1901, this journey by Grand Canyon Railway has taken visitors through Arizona’s countryside, departing from the historic Williams Depot.
Among the top attractions in Northern Arizona, this train ride is one of the epic journeys to go back in time.
As the vintage railcars of the Grand Canyon Railway take you to one of America’s most treasured landmarks, you feel transported back in time in the ancient coaches, especially the Pullman Class carriage from 1923.
The 2-hour-and-15-minute train ride takes you past the cattle ranches and you will learn about the Old West through live music by musicians wearing cowboy attire.
Recommended tour – Grand Canyon Railway Adventure Package, – Journey across the Northern Arizona countryside on a full-day journey aboard the Grand Canyon Railway.
Hear folklore and stories from the crew and witness authentic characters and musicians who bring the Old West to life on this scenic adventure. Book the tour here.
Admire the stunning views as the landscapes change magnificently out your window, listening to the tales and munching snacks.
It is one of the most fun day trips you can plan.
Once the train arrives on the South Rim of the canyon, take a guided tour along the rim trails and overlooks.
After hopping on board the train back to Williams, you might encounter an old-fashioned and family-friendly train robbery.
The returning train leaves the Grand Canyon in the afternoon and arrives at the Williams Depot before dinnertime.
You can also jump aboard classic and modern trains heading to the Grand Canyon.
Williams is one of the best Arizona Christmas towns, particularly popular for the “Polar Express” trips themed after the movie in the winter that runs from the depot during winter.
If you want to skip the queue and have a hassle-free trip, buy Grand Canyon Railway Train Tickets here.
With these tickets, you can take a trip out to the Grand Canyon from aboard a vintage train with this full-day package.
You’ll travel through beautiful plains and canyons, enjoying live entertainment, including musicians and a Wild West shoot-out reenactment. Find more details here.
CHECK OUT PLANES OF FAME AIR MUSEUM
Planes of Fame Air Museum is an aeroplane museum featuring over 150 aircraft on display and one of the best things to do in Williams AZ.
From flying and static aircraft and restoration projects to military vehicles and the 475th Fighter Group collection, you will have the opportunity to travel back in time to explore the museum’s historic collection of aircraft, especially if you are into aviation.
This captivating museum has plenty of vintage aircraft, and you can even see some of them up in the air.
CHECK OUT WILLIAMS DEPOT
Before boarding the heritage train, one of the top things to do in Williams AZ is exploring the Williams Depot.
The Williams Depot, a privately-owned station, today, is the reminder of the golden era of the railroad in the 18th century.
Constructed in 1901 as a part of attracting visitors to the heritage train to the Grand Canyon, the first passenger train ran from Williams to Grand Canyon South Rim in September 1901.
Williams Depot is now the headquarters and southern terminus for Grand Canyon Railway.
Check-out classic railroad cars and learn all about Western railroad history.
Visit this old building formerly the location of Fray Marcos Hotel.
Do you know? this beautiful building with its grand columns and frontier is the oldest poured-concrete structure in Arizona.
Grab a quick bite and coffee, and browse for souvenirs while you are here.
STOP AT WILLIAMS VISITOR CENTER
The Williams Visitor Center is the perfect first stop and one of the top places to visit in Williams, Arizona.
The Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center is in downtown Williams, Arizona, just off Historic Route 66.
Stop here to interact with the centre’s friendly and knowledgeable staff to get information about visiting Williams AZ, including trail details, maps, and the many tours.
Browse their large selection of educational items and books, including interpretive exhibits on the history of Williams, the Forest Service, Route 66, and the Bill Williams Mountain Men, regional maps, and Forest Service maps.
You can even browse their cute collections of keepsakes dedicated to Williams, Route 66, and the Grand Canyon and pick up a souvenir or two.
VISIT PETE’S ROUTE 66 GAS STATION MUSEUM
Craving the nostalgia of Route 66? One of the fun things to do in Williams AZ is visit the historic Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum.
Although a small museum, this former gas station-turned museum has Route 66 memorabilia and information about classic historic American gas stations.
It makes you feel nostalgic as you find old model cars and vintage vehicles sitting out front and a garage filled with signs, vintage oil, tire, gas pumps, and more.
Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum is open between 9 AM to 9 Pm during the summer months.
VISIT TO THE ROUTE 66 MUSEUM AND GIFT SHOP
Next to Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum is the small Route 66 Museum And Gift Shop, is another place to relive the history and one of the best things to do in Williams AZ for history lovers.
Check out the collection of historical displays, exhibits, and statues.
You can also take home some handcrafted, Route 66 and the Grand Canyon themed Native American products and souvenirs.
CHECK OUT THE MEMORIALS IN MONUMENT PARK
Located on the western edge of the city, the Bill Williams Monument Park is a beautiful little park and garden full of statues.
It is one of the best things to do in Williams AZ to learn about the mountain man Old Bill Williams, after whom the town was named.
It is visited by thousands of visitors for the famous bronze statue of Bill Williams, and other monuments dedicated to veterans, and the local wildlife.
Stroll along the small walkway and or have lunch at one of the picnic tables shaded by ponderosa pines.
STOP BY AT THE WELCOME AND HISTORY PARK
One of the small but essential places worth stopping by on your Williams Arizona trip is the Welcome And History Park at the east end of town.
Home to vintage train cars, Route 66 signs, a pavilion filled with information and photographs covering both Route 66 and the Grand Canyon, and beautiful panoramic views, it is a great place to stop.
STAY OVERNIGHT IN HERITAGE HOTELS
One of the best things to do in Williams AZ to relive the past is staying at some of the historic heritage hotels in the town.
The Grand Canyon Hotel, 1891 built is the oldest in Arizona, featuring 29 individually themed rooms.
It is one of the most popular stays in Williams, and you need to book in advance if you are here during the peak months, and no surprise, given the fantastic decor and the rich history of this building.
Stay at Drover’s Inn, a fantastic hotel, with seven comfortable rooms known for their rustic Old West decor, to see how the cowboys and well-to-do folks of yore had it back in the day.
DAY TRIP TO THE GRAND CANYON
If you are short of time, one of the best things to do near Williams AZ is planning a day trip to the fantastic Grand Canyon National Park.
Many travelers visit Williams as a launching point for their Grand Canyon adventure.
Still, if you want a quick experience of this magnificent national park, you can choose from many excellent day tours leaving from Williams.
Here are some of the best tours I recommend to visit the Grand Canyon on a short day trip. This is a hassle-free way to explore the park, especially with young children.
All these tours include pick up and drop to your hotel and can be booked online quickly. Check out the details below.
1.✅Full-Day Private Tour & Hike in Grand Canyon National Park🤩 – With this expert-led private tour, you’ll get to tag along with a Master Naturalist as you explore one of the wonders of the world.
Just your group, you’ll get to customize the full-day adventure to your liking, choosing between backcountry hikes, scenic viewpoints, flora-filled excursions, and more. Find more details here.
2. ✅If you prefer a longer tour, check this private tour🤩 where you can enjoy magnificent views of the South Rim, the Colorado River, and the desert.
On this full-day tour, travel by comfortable, customized van with a private guide, and stop at several different viewpoints, including Mather Point, Grandview Point, and Yavapai Point. A delicious picnic lunch is included for summer tours; winter tours stop for a restaurant lunch (own expense). Book here.
3. ✅If you are looking for a budget-friendly group tour to the Grand Canyon, check out this tour.🤩
4. ✅Another fantastic tour for hikers is this tour – This private full-day hike🤩 is ideal for those looking for an active adventure in Grand Canyon National Park.
Your guide will lead you through the park’s rugged terrain while sharing their intimate knowledge of the area’s geology, flora, fauna, and natural and cultural history. After working up an appetite, a delicious picnic lunch will be served on the trail.
5.✅ Looking for a half-day trip? Check this hiking tour🤩 with a free pick up from the hotel.
6. ✅A special tour that allows you more fun is this Full-Day Inner Canyon River Tour to the Bottom of Grand Canyon🤩 – With this tour, save time searching for parking or waiting in the visitor center’s long lines, and journey 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) to the bottom of the canyon in an air-conditioned, off-road vehicle. Book this tour here.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS
DRIVE ALONG THE HISTORIC ROUTE 66
One of the bucket list experiences in Arizona, driving along the historic Route 66 is one of the best things to do in Williams AZ.
Route 66, constructed in the 1920s, is one of the most famous routes in the USA that connected Chicago to Los Angeles. It still is one of the top favourites among road trippers.
Williams, located en route, has plenty of remnants of the history, with many Route 66-themed restaurants, cafes, and gift shops selling all sorts of souvenirs.
HIKE TO SYCAMORE FALLS
One of the stunning waterfall hikes in Arizona is Sycamore Falls, located in the beautiful Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, the first official wilderness area of the Copper State.
Sycamore Falls is only about 20 minutes away from William, making it one of the best fun things to do in Williams AZ for outdoor adventures.
Sycamore Falls is a gorgeous, 100-foot seasonal waterfall, formed from Sycamore Creek, beautifully plunging to form cascading pools, nestling amidst the rugged landscapes, and unlike other famous waterfalls in Arizona, accessing Sycamore Falls is relatively more straightforward on an easy-to-moderate trail, over 5 miles one way.
You can access the waterfalls from the Sycamore Rim Trail in the Kaibab National Forest.
The Sycamore Falls Trailhead is about 15 miles southeast of Williams and 60 miles northwest of Sedona in north-central Arizona.
You’ll hike along the Sycamore Canyon rim, a popular spot for rock climbing, passing through fragrant woodlands, sunlit meadows dotted with cacti, desert blooms and splendid views into the Sycamore Canyon.
Depending on when you are doing the hike, you will scramble and make your way over the boulders amidst the distinct vegetation before seeing Sycamore Falls cascading into a giant pool of water.
Early Spring or late Fall seasons, between March to May and September to November, are the best months to explore Sycamore Falls.
SLEEP UNDER THE STARS AT KAIBAB LAKE CAMPGROUND
Kaibab Lake Campground is one of the popular camping sites in Arizona for its stunning location, plenty of beautiful trails accessible from the sites, and of course, the gorgeous views of the lake and the surrounding pine forests.
Camping is also famous because of the excellent clear skies at night, perfect for stargazing, allowing you to enjoy spectacular views of summer stars.
The campground offers individual, double and group campsites with picnic tables and campfire rings, and one of the best things to do in Williams AZ.
The campground has limited drinking water and vault toilets. For fees and reservations, go to this website.
Kaibab Lake sits at an elevation of 6,800 feet, among the diverse landscape of Kaibab National Forest of northern Arizona, in the Kaibab National Forest is nestled on the stunning Colorado Plateau.
This beautiful lake, a hotspot among outdoor lovers, is surrounded by pine forests and grass lining its shores, while wildflowers add extra colours to the landscape in late spring and early summer.
It is one of the easily accessible lakes near Flagstaff for fishing and picnicking.
Thanks to its excellent location close to other cultural and historical sites, you can easily add it as a stop along the way.
No swimming is allowed in Kaibab Lake. Boats under 10hp are allowed.
It is a fantastic spot to fish for Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Black crappies, and Largemouth Bass stocked here regularly.
You can fish from the accessible fishing pier or the small boat ramp.
You need an Arizona state fishing license to fish, as it is a mandatory rule in all Arizona lakes.
If you do not have one, you can get one nearby White Horse Lake.
HOW TO REACH?
From Williams, Arizona, take I-40 east to exit 165. Turn north onto State Highway 64 toward Grand Canyon and continue for a mile to arrive at the campground. The entrance is on the left.
SPEND HALF A DAY AT BEARIZONA WILDLIFE PARK
Bearizona Wildlife Park is one of the must-things to do in Williams AZ for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bearizona Wildlife Park is a drive-thru wildlife park and a walk-thru park, spanning 160 acres of beautiful Ponderosa Pine Forest, nestling amidst the fantastic Kaibab National Forest.
Bearizona as the name indicates, is best known for its black bear residents.
But it is one of the best reserves known for conserving many exquisite animals from North America, like the Alaskan Tundra Wolf, North American River Otter, Mountain Goats and bison.
You can take a self-guided driving tour of the site or a leisurely walk-thru via Fort Bearizona.
Go on a scenic drive of more than three miles to see these magnificent creatures up close, including Jaguar, Argentine Black and White Tegu, and an African Crested Porcupine.
Alternatively, you can use the park’s complimentary Wild Ride Bus Tour.
After the drive, check out Fort Bearizona, a 20-acre walk-thru area that showcases more animals in a more traditional zoo setting.
Attend one of the Ambassador Animal Shows where keepers train the park’s program animals, including wild birds.
HIKE BEALE WAGON ROAD HISTORIC TRAIL
Beale Wagon Road Historic Trail is a 1,240-mile route stretching from Fort Smith in Arkansas, to the winding Colorado River, and one of the most popular hiking trails in America.
The Beale Wagon Road was the first pathway constructed in the same general corridor that historic Route 66 and Interstate 40 pass through today.
This was one of three wagon roads constructed in 1857 to provide an east-west corridor to the Mojave Road in California, used by settlers until railroad transportation became available in the late 1800s.
One recommended thing to do in Williams AZ if you are fond of hiking is to hike a part of this historic trail that traverses through 23 miles of beautiful terrain within the Kaibab National Forest.
Trail running, biking, and horseback riding are pretty popular on this trail. You can even camp overnight seasonally.
CHECK OUT THE PETROGLYPHS
One of the most spectacular things to do in Williams Az is the prehistoric evidence of inhabitants in the Kaibab National Forest dating back more than 1,000 years.
Hike along the Keyhole Sink Trail under the shade of the conifer trees and the pine forest to the ancient petroglyphs carved into the canyon walls.
Ancient Indigenous people left their mark on the volcanic walls of the box canyon along the Keyhole Sinkhole Trail in Kaibab, that detail the stories of primal hunters and ancient life in the Arizona area.
It is believed that this ancient form of communication was useful to the original inhabitants who hunted in the area.
The Keyhole Sink trailhead is about 20 minutes from Williams.
ADMIRE THE VIEWS FROM BILL WILLIAMS MOUNTAIN
Located just over 6km south of Williams, in the San Francisco Volcanic Field, Bill Williams Mountain is one of the taller peaks in the area at over 2,822 metres.
Known for its beautiful forests and hiking trails, you will be treated to spectacular views atop the mountain.
Take in the stunning views of the conifer and aspen tree forest and open skies of Northern Arizona.
If you are up for a challenge, get on the strenuous trail to the top which will take about 4 to 5 hours. You will also spot many mountain bikers. If you want, you can enjoy horseback riding.
GO FISHING AT CATARACT LAKE
Located in the Williams Ranger District, one of the famous fishing lakes near Flagstaff is Cataract Lake, about one-mile northwest of Williams.
It is one of the best things to do in Williams Az for families for a picnic day.
Unlike the other Flagstaff lakes, Cataract Lake is open seasonally for day use for limited days, and you can easily reach Cataract Lakes in under 40 minutes.
The day-use area is new and well-developed, with picnic tables, shaded areas, and a boat ramp.
Recommended – 7 Beautiful Lakes Near Williams For a Relaxing Picnic, Boating and Fishing With Kids
No swimming is allowed in the Cataract Lake. But fishing is prevalent as the lake gets stocked with trout and catfish, and you can also spot many types of birds during the migration season.
HOW TO REACH?
If you are traveling from Interstate 40, take exit 161, where you have to turn right onto Golf Course Drive if coming from the east. After passing under the railroad tracks, turn right immediately and continue for about a mile.
From Williams, turn north onto 7th Street. After crossing the railroad tracks, turn west at the first road and continue for a mile.
WATCH A SUNSET IN DOGTOWN LAKE
Located close to Williams, Dogtown Lake gets its name from the extensive prairie dog towns that once covered open areas near the lake.
It is one of the offbeat things to do in Williams AZ you can add to your itinerary for a day of kayaking, and watching a stunning sunset.
Lake and Pond Fishing, Kayaking and Canoeing are popular activities. Single electric boat motors can be rented.
Enjoy fishing for Rainbow trout, brown trout, black crappie, largemouth bass, and bluegill. No swimming is allowed in the lake.
Get on a guided nature trail around the lake, offering stunning views.
Although spring is the most popular season, as the nearby campground opens up for overnight camping, it is one of the few lakes near Williams open and accessible during winter. The views are incredible as snow carpets the area.
Day use area is available year-round, but if you need to camp, you have to make reservations online in advance.
HOW TO REACH?
From Williams, turn south on Fourth Street or FR 173-Perkinsville Road for 3.5 miles to arrive at Forest Road 140. Here turn left and continue for 3 miles to FR 132, which leads to Dogtown Lake.
TAKE A HELICOPTER TOUR OF THE GRAND CANYON
Flying over the mighty Colorado River towards the canyon’s North Rim is one of the distinct ways to tour the majestic Grand Canyon National Park.
One of the best things to do in Williams AZ for adventure seekers is to join one of the helicopter tours to soak in the splendid birdviews.
You will spot the best landmarks in the national park from above, including seeing the Painted Desert and the Desert View Watchtower designed by the Hopi Indians, and Marble Canyon.
Your journey continues as you follow the Colorado River upstream to where it merges with the Little Colorado River, and Point Imperial as you fly through the canyon and climb above the North Rim.
The tour then heads south through the Dragon Corridor, the wildest and deepest part of the canyon, where you’ll see rock formations like the Tower of Ra and Vishnu Schist.
Check the 45-minutes tour details here and book for one of the most memorable experiences in Arizona.
If you want a shorter tour, check this 25-min Grand Canyon South Rim EcoStar Helicopter Tour with Optional Hummer.
Planning a trip from Las Vegas? There are many fantastic helicopter tours to the Grand Canyon, but I highly recommend this one if you want a quick tour from Vegas.
Prefer a drive? Then check this Grand Canyon South Rim Audio Driving Tour – This experience is easy to download on your smartphone and can be played offline using your phone’s GPS. Follow the 23-mile (37-kilometer) route through the national park’s South Rim and listen to the awesome commentary as you drive.
HIT THE SLOPES IN WINTER
One of the best things to do in Williams AZ in winter for families is to visit the Elk Ridge Ski Area.
While Arizona turns into a winter wonderland, the Elk Ridge Ski Area beckons adventure seekers and snow lovers on the northeast slopes of Bill Williams Mountain for winter sports enthusiasts.
Admire the splendid views of the snow-blanketed valley while enjoying skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
DRIVE ALONG THE BULL BASIN ROAD
Bull Basin Road is a series of stunning roads winding through north central Arizona, east of the city.
One of the fun things to do in Williams AZ is road-tripping along this valley for about 9 miles one way, where you will be treated to spectacular views.
Open only from spring through fall, this road through the Kaibab National Forest passes through lush forests home to oak, juniper, blue spruce, aspen, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and ponderosa pines.
Drive slow to watch the unique wildlife in the area, and you may spot pronghorn, elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer on this almost 2-hours long road trip.
SKYDIVE ABOVE THE GRAND CANYON
If helicopters are not your thing, one of the adventurous activities in Williams is tandem skydiving to experience the Grand Canyon like never before.
Paragon Skydive is the first and only company to offer tandem skydives at the Grand Canyon.
In this once-in-a-lifetime experience, you will be amazed by the magnificent views of the majestic expanse of the Grand Canyon from 15,000ft when you are in free fall.
The tour starts from the Grand Canyon National Park Airport at the South Rim. Book the tour here.
FUN THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS AZ
GO GHOST HUNTING
This one may not be for the light-hearted ones, but one of my favourite things to do in Williams, AZ for this eerie ghost-hunting tour.
SteamPunk Ghost Tours, known for showcasing some of the most famous paranormal experiences in the country, offers a ghost tour in Williams.
On this tour, you will hear the gory and chilling stories of the town, as you explore the most haunted spots in Williams to see ghosts where you never expected.
GET ENTERTAINED AT WILD WEST JUNCTION
Wild West Junction is an excellent place with live entertainment, historic saloons, historical reenactments involving shootouts, sheriffs, and the best grub in the West you can enjoy with tasty food.
Stay at Drover’s Inn, a fantastic hotel, with seven comfortable rooms known for their rustic Old West decor, to see how the cowboys and well-to-do folks of yore had it back in the day.
PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF
If you are looking for one of the fun things to do in Williams AZ besides exploring the major attractions in Williams, head to Elephant Rocks Golf Course.
Located at the foot of Bill Williams Mountain, Elephant Rocks boasts an 18-hole championship course offering a fun experience and a much-needed respite from the hot outdoors.
SHOP AT THE COLORS OF THE WEST
Head to Colors of the West, a charming boutique shop, one of the fun things to do in Williams AZ, for shopping for cute and colourful items to take back home.
Open since the 1990s, this family-owned huge shop offers over 12,000 square feet of shopping.
Shop for clothing and accessories, home decor and gifts in their many themed rooms that offer a unique shopping experience.
CAPTURE THE ICONIC ROUTE 66 SIGN
Located along the historic route, the Route 66 Sign is a large rendition of the iconic black-and-white design, and one of the fun things to do in Williams AZ is to capture this on your camera.
Also, snapping a selfie at the ‘Gateway to the Grand Canyon’ arch is one of the fun things to do in Williams AZ.
The Gateway To The Grand Canyon is a historic metal arch over Route 66 erected in 1881 to signify that.
TASTE THE LOCAL BREWS AT WILLIAMS
What is better than winding with a pint or two of the local brew after being busy and up all day?
Spend the evening at Grand Canyon Brewing Company, a brewery, distillery, tap house, and restaurant in downtown Williams, known for its tasty brews.
I recommend trying their signature Black Iron IPA, American Pilsner, Sunset Amber Ale, and Grand Canyon Expeditions Wheat Ale.
Grand Canyon Brewing Co. also has a dog-friendly patio and an excellent menu selection that goes best with the beer.
TASTE THE BEST WINE AT GRAND CANYON WINERY
If you are more of a wine lover, head to Grand Canyon Wine Co, a family-owned winery, and one of the fun things to do in Williams AZ.
Known for its exceptional handcrafted, local Arizona wines, it is one of the best places to get introduced to wine culture in Arizona, to get to know the local flavours.
Grand Canyon Wine Co is a perfect place for a romantic date night as well, thanks to their eclectic decor, and tasty bites that pair well with the wine.
You can even spend overnight admiring the surrounding views, a perfect way to call it a day after a romantic dinner.
SPEND AN EVENING AT SULTANA BAR
One of the iconic attractions in Williams AZ is Sultana Bar, one of the oldest bars along the historic Route 66, which opened in 1912, 14 years before the historic highway on which it stands.
This cool dive bar holds the Arizona record as the longest continuously operating bar.
During the prohibition era, Sultana Bar was a speakeasy that kept alcohol in the tunnels underneath the bar, initially designed to smuggle opium.
Enjoy a game of pool, a few drinks or a meal while looking at many dollar bills stuck everywhere.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN WILLIAMS AZ WITH KIDS
HEAD TO GRAND CANYON DEER FARM
Among the best things to do in Williams AZ with kids is a stop at Grand Canyon Deer Farm, one of the famous vintage attractions along Route 66 in Williams.
The 10-acre deer farm, operating for more than five decades is a fun place to go with kids as they can get close to deer and other animals, including bison, llamas, wallabies, camels, peacocks, goats, and coatimundi.
Kids can feed deer and porcupines from their hands, pet llamas, and even interact with other animals like the farm’s pet umbrella cockatoo, Mozart.
Participate in the Zoo Keeper Program with children for a full-farm experience.
JOIN STAGECOACH RIDES WITH YOUR KIDS
If you are here between May and September, one of the fun things to do in Williams Arizona with kids is hopping on the stagecoach rides.
On these narrated Stagecoach rides, you will learn all about the town and its history on an old-fashioned mud wagon stagecoach, getting up close and personal with some of the most passionate living historians around as they take you through the town of Williams.
The tours start and end at Frontier Family Fun.
The route, traveling through Williams and the historical district, will give visitors insight into life back in the 1890’s on this quick 20-minute tour.
TAKE YOUR KIDS TO A WATER PARK
One of the fun things to do in Williams AZ with kids is planning a trip to Canyon Coaster Adventure Park, an amusement park on the east edge of town.
The park, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, offers a variety of thrill ride features, including steep descents, dips, twists, hairpin turns, and 360-degree corkscrews.
Get on the special conveyor covered in plexiglass, and admire the fantastic views of the mountainous landscapes and the Canyon.
If you are visiting in winter, from mid-November until Easter, you can also try snow tubing at Canyon Coaster Adventure Park.
ENJOY GO KARTING WITH YOUR KIDS
One of the family-friendly things to do in Williams AZ is The Grand Canyon Go-Karts, a fun experience comprising a half mile of twists and turns.
Grand Canyon Go-Karts charges on a per-drive basis, but ask for their special rates if you are in groups.
ZIP LINE YOUR WAY ABOVE WILLIAMS
One of the fun things to do in Williams AZ for adventure seekers is Route 66 Zipline, an easy and fun ride offering stunning birdviews along the famous Route 66, including the views of Williams and Grand Canyon Boulevard and the beautiful surrounding landscapes.
Suspended 110 feet in the air, running for 427 metres, you can travel facing forwards, or backwards flying down the lines in side-by-side seats, an option that makes it a convenient and fun experience for young children.
PICNIC AT BUCKSKINNER PARK
Buckskinner Park is a beautiful little park on the southern outskirts of the city, and one of the fun things to do in Williams AZ for a short stroll or a picnic.
Thanks to its fantastic location around a reservoir, there are many beautiful forests and hiking trails between them, so it is one of the best places to hike.
You can also enjoy fishing in the lake regularly stocked with fish.
Amenities include fire rings, two picnic armadas, barbeque pits, a basketball court, a volleyball court, and paths for biking, running and walking with dogs.
SHOP FOR LOCAL SOUVENIRS
If you want more souvenirs, visit Valle Travel Stop for cute souvenirs like Native American jewellery, artwork, vintage signs, southwestern gifts, and antiques.
WHERE TO STAY IN WILLIAMS AZ?
BEST HOTELS FOR FAMILIES AND COUPLES
✅Grand Canyon Hotel is the preferred hotel to stay in Williams if you are looking to stay in a fantastic heritage hotel.
Located in Williams, Grand Canyon Hotel features a shared lounge and each room at Grand Canyon Hotel is individually themed. Find details to book here.
✅Red Garter Inn is another fantastic heritage stay I highly recommend, especially for couples. Located on Route 66, this inn is a restored 1897 saloon and bordello. Grand Canyon National Park is 55 minutes’ drive from the property.
The Grand Canyon Railway departs daily across the street from the Red Garter Inn. Check out the reviews and prices here.
✅Hampton Inn By Hilton Williams is one of the best places to stay in Williams in Arizona, and loved by families and couples alike.
They have spacious rooms with superior amenities besides their excellent location. Find details to book here.
✅La Quinta by Wyndham Williams – Set in Williams, La Quinta by Wyndham Williams-Grand Canyon Area features a bar, shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property.
This 3-star hotel offers ticket service and luggage storage space. The hotel has an indoor pool, fitness centre and a 24-hour front desk. Check details here.
✅Best Western Plus Inn of Williams is known for their excellent location, and amazing steakhouse apart from their spacious rooms ideal for families. Check out more details here.
CABIN STAY
✅ If you are looking for a cosy cabin stay in Williams, check out Inn History Grand Canyon Themed Cabin.
The holiday home also features free WiFi, and free private parking. Guests at the holiday home will be able to enjoy activities in and around Williams, like hiking. Find more here.
