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El Tovar Hotel: Grand Canyon's Crown Jewel

Experience timeless elegance at El Tovar Hotel, a historic Grand Canyon landmark offering unparalleled access to breathtaking views and exceptional dining.

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Perched on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, the El Tovar Hotel offers a luxurious and historic experience. Designed by Charles Whittlesey and opened in 1905, this iconic hotel blends Swiss chalet and Norwegian villa architectural styles, providing guests with unparalleled access to the canyon's breathtaking views.

A brief summary to El Tovar Hotel

Local tips

  • Book your dining reservations well in advance, especially for dinner, as the El Tovar Dining Room is highly popular.
  • Consider requesting a room on the upper floors for potentially better views, though canyon views are limited in most rooms.
  • Take advantage of the hotel's proximity to the Rim Trail for easy access to scenic viewpoints and shuttle stops.
  • Be prepared for limited parking, especially during peak season; utilize the free shuttle system to explore other areas of the park.
  • Explore the hotel's historic features and architecture, including the lobby's Swiss-inspired details and the dining room's Native American murals.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in Grand Canyon Village, the El Tovar Hotel is easily accessible on foot. Follow the Rim Trail, which offers stunning canyon views, directly to the hotel's entrance. The walk is generally level and well-maintained, taking approximately 5-15 minutes from most village locations. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Utilize the free shuttle system within Grand Canyon National Park to reach El Tovar. Several shuttle routes stop at or near the hotel, providing convenient access from various points in the park, including the Visitor Center and other lodges. Check the park's shuttle schedule for specific routes and times. There is no cost for using the park's shuttle system.

  • Taxi

    Taxi service is available within Grand Canyon Village and can provide direct transportation to the El Tovar Hotel. Taxis can be hailed or arranged by calling Grand Canyon National Park Lodges. A short taxi ride from other locations within the village typically costs around $10-$15.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow signs to Grand Canyon Village and then to the El Tovar Hotel. Note that parking near the hotel is limited, especially during peak season. All parking lots on the South Rim are open to all National Park visitors. Consider parking in a larger lot further away and taking the free shuttle to avoid circling for a spot. There is no charge for parking with your paid entrance fee. However, during peak periods of visitation, it may be necessary to park in satellite parking lots, as there is no assigned hotel parking for guests.

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Discover more about El Tovar Hotel

The El Tovar Hotel, a celebrated landmark since 1905, stands majestically on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Designed by Charles Whittlesey, the chief architect for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway, the hotel's architecture is a unique blend of Swiss chalet and Norwegian villa styles, intended to appeal to the refined tastes of early 20th-century elites. Constructed from local limestone and Oregon pine, the El Tovar quickly became renowned as one of the most elegant hotels west of the Mississippi River. Throughout its history, El Tovar has hosted numerous luminaries, including Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, and Paul McCartney. The hotel features 78 rooms, each uniquely decorated to maintain its historic charm. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the El Tovar Dining Room, known for its blend of regional and classical flavors, or relax in the lounge with its rustic ambiance and canyon views. El Tovar's location offers immediate access to the Grand Canyon's stunning vistas and the South Rim's attractions. The hotel is also a major component of the Grand Canyon Village Historic District, adding to its cultural and historical significance. While the hotel blends a rustic exterior with refined interiors, it provides a luxurious and comfortable base for exploring one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

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