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 cultural gem on the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
The Desert View Watchtower, designed by Mary Colter and completed in 1932, offers panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and the surrounding landscape. Inspired by ancestral Puebloan architecture, this iconic structure provides a unique perspective on the canyon's vastness and cultural history.
A brief summary to Desert View Watchtower
- Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
- +1800-858-2808
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
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 views and the interior murals.
- Visit the nearby Tusayan Museum and Ruins to learn more about the Ancestral Puebloan people and their culture.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience and spot distant landmarks within the canyon.
- Check the operating hours for the upper floors of the Watchtower, as access may be limited depending on staffing.
Getting There
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Driving
From Grand Canyon Village, drive east on Highway 64 (Desert View Drive) for approximately 25 miles. The drive takes about 40 minutes and offers scenic overlooks along the way. Follow the signs to the Desert View area and park in the designated parking lot. From the parking lot, it is a short, paved walk to the Watchtower. There is a $35 per vehicle entrance fee to enter Grand Canyon National Park, which is valid for seven days. Parking is free at the Desert View Watchtower.
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Taxi
From Grand Canyon Village, a taxi ride to Desert View Watchtower is approximately 25 miles and takes about 40 minutes. The estimated cost for a taxi is $45-$60. This is a convenient option for those without a vehicle, but it is more expensive than driving.
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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Zuni Point
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Shoshone Point Trailhead
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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
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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)
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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
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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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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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We Cook Pizza and Pasta
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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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Xanterra Garage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Timberline Tavern
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Spenser's Pub
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Canyon Club
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Williams
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