1956 Grand Canyon Aviation Accident Memorial at Desert View Point
Reflect on aviation history at this Grand Canyon memorial site with panoramic views of the canyon and the Painted Desert.
Commemorating a tragic mid-air collision, the 1956 TWA-United Airlines Aviation Accident Site memorial at Desert View Point offers a place for reflection alongside stunning Grand Canyon views. The disaster spurred significant advancements in air safety regulations and the establishment of the FAA.
A brief summary to National Historic Landmark - 1956 TWA-United Airlines Accident Site
- Grand Canyon National Park, Near Watchtower, Grand Canyon Village, AZ, 86023, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning for the best light for photographs of the canyon cliffs.
- Take time to explore the Desert View Watchtower, designed by Mary Colter, for a glimpse into Ancestral Puebloan architecture.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Tusayan Museum and Ruins to learn about the area's Native American history.
Getting There
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Driving
From Grand Canyon Village, drive east on Highway 64 (Desert View Drive) for approximately 23 miles. Desert View Point will be on your right. From the East Entrance, take Highway 64 and turn right to Desert View. There are no fees to visit Desert View Point. However, to enter Grand Canyon National Park, a vehicle permit costs $35, a motorcycle permit is $30, and an individual permit is $20. These permits are valid for 7 days and can be purchased with a credit or debit card at the entrance stations.
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Public Transport
From the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, take the free Tusayan (Purple) Route shuttle bus to the gateway community of Tusayan. From Tusayan, you can take a taxi to Desert View Point. A 24-hour taxi service is available for the South Rim and Tusayan. Taxi fare will vary. Alternatively, Xanterra Parks & Resorts conducts guided bus tours within the park. Contact any transportation desk for information or call (928) 638-2631 to make arrangements.
Discover more about National Historic Landmark - 1956 TWA-United Airlines Accident Site
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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Zuni Point
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Shoshone Point Trailhead
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South Kaibab Trailhead
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Grand Canyon Visitor Center Westbound - Kaibab Rim (Orange Route)
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Bright Angel Point
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Yavapai Point
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Trail of Time
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Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim
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Grandeur Point
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Plateau Point
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Shrine of the Ages
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Unmissable attractions to see
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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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Moran Point
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E Rim Dr
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Angels Window
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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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South Rim
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Cape Final Trailhead
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Grandview Lookout Tower
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Grandview Point
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Shoshone Point
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Duck on a Rock Viewpoint
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Essential places to dine
Yavapai Tavern
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Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall
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Yavapai Lodge
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Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room
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Deli in the Pines
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Yippee-Ei-O! Steakhouse
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R&J's Mexican Food Truck
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Grand Canyon Coffee Factory
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El Tovar cocktail lounge
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Grand Canyon Beer Garden
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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
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Desert View Market and Deli
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GCC Park Store at Grand Canyon Visitor Center
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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 Outfitters
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North Country HealthCare - Grand Canyon
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Canyon Closet - Grand Canyon School PTA
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Xanterra Garage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Jacob Lake Inn
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Timberline Tavern
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Canyon Club
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Williams
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