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Verkamp's Visitor Center: A Window into Grand Canyon History

Explore the human history of the Grand Canyon at this informative visitor center in a historic curio shop building.

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Housed in a historic building dating back to 1906, Verkamp's Visitor Center offers a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the Grand Canyon community. Once a family-run curio shop, it now features exhibits, an information desk, and a Grand Canyon Conservancy museum store.

A brief summary to Verkamp's Visitor Center

Local tips

  • Check out the walking history timeline on the floor to learn about key events in Grand Canyon history.
  • Speak with park rangers at the information desk to get answers to your questions about the Grand Canyon.
  • Browse the Grand Canyon Conservancy store for books, DVDs, and souvenirs related to the park.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Verkamp's Visitor Center is located in the Grand Canyon Village Historic District, a short walk east of the El Tovar Hotel and Hopi House. From the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, climb the stairway to the top of the hill. The visitor center will be on your left. There is no fee to enter the visitor center.

  • Public Transport

    Take the free park shuttle bus to the Train Depot stop. From the depot, climb the stairway to the top of the hill. The visitor center will be on your left. Shuttles arrive every 15-30 minutes and operate from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. There is no fee to ride the shuttle or enter the visitor center.

  • Parking

    Parking is available near Verkamp's Visitor Center, but it may be limited during busy periods. Follow signs for the El Tovar Hotel. Parking is free. As parking is limited, consider taking the free shuttle bus. RV parking is only permitted in Lot 1.

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Discover more about Verkamp's Visitor Center

Verkamp's Visitor Center, located in the Grand Canyon Village Historic District, provides a unique perspective on the human story behind one of the world's greatest natural wonders. The building itself has a rich history, beginning in 1906 when John George Verkamp, an Ohioan entrepreneur, constructed it to house his curio shop. Verkamp had previously attempted to sell souvenirs in 1898 but left due to a lack of business, only to return after the railroad's arrival made the South Rim more accessible. For over a century, the Verkamp family operated their business, selling Native American crafts and souvenirs and becoming an integral part of the Grand Canyon community. In 2008, the National Park Service (NPS) took over the building, transforming it into a visitor center. Today, the center features exhibits detailing the history of the Grand Canyon community, showcasing what it was like to live and work on the brink of this natural wonder. A timeline on the floor guides visitors through significant moments in local, national, and international history. Verkamp's Visitor Center also offers practical amenities, including a staffed information desk where park rangers and Grand Canyon Association staff can answer questions. A Grand Canyon Conservancy museum store provides books, DVDs, and gifts related to the canyon. Public restrooms are available in a separate building behind the visitor center.

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