Desert View Watchtower: A Window to the Grand Canyon's Soul
Experience breathtaking panoramic views and Native American art at the historic Desert View Watchtower, a Grand Canyon landmark since 1932.
The Desert View Watchtower, designed by Mary Colter and completed in 1932, stands as a majestic tribute to the ancestral Puebloan architecture and offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. Located on the South Rim, it's more than just a viewpoint; it's a journey through history, art, and breathtaking landscapes.
A brief summary to Desert View Watchtower
- Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
- +1928-638-2481
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
- Take your time exploring each level of the Watchtower to fully appreciate the murals and the views.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience of the vast Grand Canyon landscape.
- Check the schedule for cultural demonstrations in the View Room to learn about Native American art and culture.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Tusayan Museum and Ruins to learn more about the Pueblo Native Americans who inhabited the area.
Getting There
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Driving
The Desert View Watchtower is located 23 miles (37 km) east of Grand Canyon Village on Desert View Drive (Highway 64). From Grand Canyon Village, drive east on Highway 64 for approximately 40 minutes. The entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park is $35 per vehicle, which is paid upon arrival at the park. Once inside the park, follow Desert View Drive to the Desert View area. Parking is available in the Desert View parking lot, a short walk from the Watchtower. Parking is free.
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Public Transportation
During certain times of the year, the Desert View Route (Orange Route) provides free shuttle bus service between the Visitor Center at Canyon View Information Plaza and Desert View, with three stops along Desert View Drive. Check the park's official website or visitor centers for the current schedule and availability. If the shuttle is not running, commercial bus tours from Grand Canyon Village are an alternative. Shuttle service is not available along Desert View Drive from December to February.
Discover more about Desert View Watchtower
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
National Historic Landmark - 1956 TWA-United Airlines Accident Site
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Reflect on aviation history at this Grand Canyon memorial site with panoramic views of the canyon and the Painted Desert.
Tusayan Museum
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Step back 800 years to explore an Ancestral Puebloan village and museum showcasing the rich human history of the Grand Canyon.
Zuni Point
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Discover Zuni Point: A secluded South Rim viewpoint offering stunning Red Canyon and Colorado River vistas, away from the crowds.
Shoshone Point Trailhead
21.8 km
Discover a hidden gem at the Grand Canyon's South Rim: Shoshone Point, offering easy hiking and panoramic views away from the crowds.
South Kaibab Trailhead
23.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon at the South Kaibab Trailhead, a premier hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Grand Canyon Visitor Center Westbound - Kaibab Rim (Orange Route)
25.4 km
Your gateway to exploring the South Rim, providing access to stunning views, educational exhibits, and the Grand Canyon's free shuttle system.
Bright Angel Point
26.0 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from Bright Angel Point, the North Rim's most iconic and accessible viewpoint.
Yavapai Point
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Yavapai Geology Museum
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Garden Creek Waterfall
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Trail of Time
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Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim
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Experience the Grand Canyon's North Rim from this historic lodge with stunning views and rustic charm. Open seasonally from May 15 to October 15.
Grandeur Point
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Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from the easily accessible and less crowded Grandeur Point.
Plateau Point
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Hike to Plateau Point for unmatched Grand Canyon views. A challenging trek to a remote overlook revealing the canyon's vastness and the Colorado River.
Shrine of the Ages
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A multi-faith center at the Grand Canyon's South Rim, hosting events, ranger programs, and religious services in a serene setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Navajo Point
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Lipan Point
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Grand Canyon National Park Sign
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Tusayan Ruin
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Explore the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at the Tusayan Ruins in Grand Canyon National Park, a must-visit historic site for all travelers.
Moran Point
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Experience the awe-inspiring vistas at Moran Point, a breathtaking viewpoint in the Grand Canyon that showcases nature's stunning beauty.
E Rim Dr
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Experience the Grand Canyon's majesty along E Rim Drive: stunning vistas, hiking trails, and unforgettable natural beauty.
Angels Window
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Experience the awe-inspiring Angels Window at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, a breathtaking natural arch offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures.
Grandview Trail
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Hike the historic Grandview Trail for stunning views and a challenging descent into the Grand Canyon's mining past.
Walhalla Overlook
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Experience the stunning vistas of Walhalla Overlook at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await.
South Rim
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Experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon from the South Rim: breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and endless adventure.
Cape Final Trailhead
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Grandview Lookout Tower
15.0 km
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Grandview Point
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Shoshone Point
21.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Shoshone Point, a scenic spot in Grand Canyon National Park offering breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings.
Duck on a Rock Viewpoint
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Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon at Duck on a Rock Viewpoint, a scenic spot that promises unforgettable views and tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Yavapai Tavern
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Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall
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Experience delicious dining at Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall in Grand Canyon Village - where local flavors meet stunning views.
Yavapai Lodge
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Experience comfort and adventure at Yavapai Lodge in Grand Canyon Village – your ideal base for exploring stunning landscapes.
Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room
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Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room on North Rim.
Deli in the Pines
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We Cook Pizza and Pasta
27.9 km
Experience delicious pizza and authentic Italian dishes at We Cook Pizza and Pasta in Grand Canyon Village – perfect for adventurers seeking culinary delights.
Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse
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R&J's Mexican Food Truck
28.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at R&J's Food Truck near the Grand Canyon – where flavor meets adventure.
Grand Canyon Coffee Factory
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Savor locally roasted coffee at the Grand Canyon Coffee Factory while enjoying breathtaking views and relaxing atmosphere.
El Tovar cocktail lounge
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Experience breathtaking views and expertly crafted cocktails at El Tovar Cocktail Lounge in Grand Canyon Village.
Grand Canyon Beer Garden
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Experience unparalleled views while enjoying local brews at the Grand Canyon Beer Garden - your ultimate relaxation spot on the canyon rim.
El Tovar Hotel
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El Tovar Dining Room
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Explorers Cafe & Pizza Hut Express
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Big E Steakhouse & Saloon
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Desert View Trading Post
0.1 km
Explore Native American artistry and enjoy delicious ice cream at the Desert View Trading Post, a must-visit stop at the Grand Canyon.
Desert View Market and Deli
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Discover the flavors of the Grand Canyon at Desert View Market and Deli, where convenience meets quality in a stunning natural setting.
GCC Park Store at Grand Canyon Visitor Center
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Explore the GCC Park Store at Grand Canyon Visitor Center for unique gifts, books, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of this natural wonder.
Bright Angel Bikes & Café at Grand Canyon Visitor Center
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Yavapai Café
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Market Plaza Parking - Lot B
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General Store
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Grand Canyon Village Market & Deli
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Grand Canyon Outfitters
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Mather Campground Camp Store
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Camper Services And Camp Store
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North Country HealthCare - Grand Canyon
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Xanterra Garage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Kaibab Lodge
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Jacob Lake Inn
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Indian Fry Bread
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Chevron
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Kaibab Camper Village
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Timberline Tavern
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Stockmans Club
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Glen Canyon
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The Long Horn Saloon
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dj's Wild West Junction
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Spenser's Pub
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Canyon Club
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Explore the Canyon Club in Williams, AZ - where cocktails and karaoke come together for an unforgettable night out!
Williams
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Explore the historic charm of Williams, Arizona, the gateway to the Grand Canyon, where Route 66 meets adventure and nostalgia.
