Whether you are spending a day or a week at the Grand Canyon South Rim you will want to make sure you enjoy a delicious meal in one of the Grand Canyon Restaurants.
Here are my top finds for Grand Canyon National Park:
🏨Hotels: El Tovar, Yavapai Lodge, Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins
📍Tours: 45-Minute Helicopter Flight over the Grand Canyon
🐻 Save time! Buy your National Park Pass before your trip
Grand Canyon Restaurants - South Rim
The restaurants range from casual to fine dining and everything in between. You can grab a quick snack at the Hermit's Rest Snack counter or sit down for a 4-course meal at the El Tovar Dining Room.
It is truly up to you how you want to enjoy one of the South Rim Grand Canyon Restaurants. During our visits to Grand Canyon National Park, we tried to visit as many of the restaurants as we could to offer you the best information and what not to miss at each location.
I will say that the El Tovar Dining Room is my favorite Grand Canyon Restaurant and I would happily dine there every time I visit the park. The food, the service, and the atmosphere are truly amazing. Plus how can you go wrong enjoying a meal looking out over the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
El Tovar Lodge Dining Options
El Tovar Dining Room
Probably the most famous Grand Canyon Restaurant the El Tovar Dining Room offers upscale dining with a view overlooking the Grand Canyon. The restaurant is located inside the historic El Tovar Hotel and features a gorgeous dining room. The menu blends regional and classic dishes along with historic dishes that have been featured for over 70 years.
If you are planning to enjoy dinner at the El Tovar Dining Room make sure and make reservations online as soon as you know the date and time you wish to visit. The restaurant is casual elegance and they ask that guests do not wear flip-flops. You do not need a dress jacket but a button-down shirt will not look out of place in the restaurant.
The El Tovar Dining Room is our favorite restaurant in the Grand Canyon. I tried to convince my wife that we should dine there for every meal while we were in the park. She gave me a look and shook her head at me but I did manage to get a couple of breakfast and dinner at the El Tovar. Trust me when I tell you not to miss eating at the El Tovar.
Our dinner cost $145 with tip and that included 2 beers, a margarita, cheese platter, 2 entrees, and 2 desserts. The food is exquisite and tastes amazing. I don't know if it is the view over the Grand Canyon or the amazing chefs but the combination is unbelievable.
Breakfast is the perfect time to enjoy dining at the El Tovar if you do not want to worry about wearing a nice dress shirt or paying dinner prices. The menu has a wide range of options available but I can say the eggs benedict and the prime rib hash are worth ordering! My wife is vegetarian and was able to easily adapt any of the menu items to fit her dietary restrictions. They also offer gluten-free bread and corn tortillas if you are gluten free. Our server said they will do whatever they can to help meet dietary restrictions to make sure you have an amazing visit to the El Tovar Dining Room.
El Tovar Dinner Menu highlights not to miss
Prickly Pear Margarita
A Cool Southwestern Twist to an Old Favorite with Hornitos Tequila, Patron Citronge, Sweet n' Sour, Lime & Prickly Pear Syrup
Goulash Soup
Served in a Tortilla Lady Fried Tortilla Bowl
Chicken El Tovar - Inspired by an item appearing on El Tovar's 1947 Dinner Menu
Two Antibiotic Free Boneless Chicken Breasts, Angel Hair Pasta, Mushroom Sherry Sauce, Wilted Fresh Spinach, Chef's Choice Fresh Vegetables
El Tovar Breakfast Menu Highlights not to miss!
Harvey House Breakfast - Appeared on El Tovar Breakfast Menu 1914
Two Cage Free Eggs* any style with your choice of Thick Cut, Hormone and Antibiotic Free Bacon, Smoked Pit Ham Steak, House-made Sustainably Farmed Pork Sausage Patties or Turkey Sausage,
Breakfast Potatoes or Fresh Fruit Salad and choice of Toast
El Tovar Signature Prime Rib Hash
Arizona Grown Prime Rib, Two Cage-Free Eggs* any style, Breakfast Potatoes, Fresh Bell Peppers, Roasted Tomato, Sweet Onions, Chipotle Hollandaise, Tortilla Lady Flour or Corn Tortillas
El Tovar Lunch Menu highlights not to miss
Shaved Prime Rib Melt - Inspired by El Tovar Lunch Item from 1957
Shaved Arizona Grown Prime Rib, Roasted Red Peppers, Bleu Cheese Spread, Provolone, Arugula, Grilled Locally Produced Sourdough Bread
Traditional Navajo Taco
Choice of Seasoned Arizona Grown Ground Beef with Pinto & Black Beans or Vegetarian Chili, Fresh Hand-made Fry Bread, Shredded Cheddar, Red Onion, Fresh Tomato, Chopped Lettuce
House-made Guacamole, Sour Cream, Fresh Salsa
Hours of Operation
- Breakfast - 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Lunch - 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Dinner - 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Lounge - 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Address: El Tovar Hotel, Desert View Dr., Grand Canyon Village, AZ
Phone: 303-297-2757; 888-297-2757
Reservations only; 928-638-2631 Ext. 6432
Bright Angel Lodge Dining Options
Arizona Room at the Bright Angel Lodge
The Arizona Room is opened seasonally and offers a true taste of Arizona. The large picture windows provide the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal while gazing out at the Grand Canyon. The Arizona Room also offers a quick-service lunch. The menu includes aged, hand-cut steaks, BBQ Ribs, chicken and fish inspired by flavors of the Southwest.
Dinner reservations are recommended for the Arizona Room, especially during the busy season.
Address: Bright Angel Lodge, Desert View Dr., Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Phone: 928-638-263
Harvey House Café at Bright Angel Lodge
Harvey House Cafe is located inside the Bright Angel Lodge and is a full-service restaurant in a relaxed casual setting. The restaurant is perfect for families or if you want to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. The menu has everything from a full turkey dish to spaghetti and meatballs. The Tortilla Soup is vegetarian and tasted great.
Seating is first to come first served with a host/hostess seating you.
Breakfast Menu highlights
Huevos Rancheros -Featured on the 1955 Bright Angel Restaurant Menu
Refried Beans & Corn Tortillas topped with Enchilada Sauce, Pepper jack Cheese, Sour Cream, Green Chiles & Black Olives served with Two Large Eggs* Any Style, Served with Hash Browns or Fresh Fruit Salad
Buttermilk or Multigrain Pancakes - Featured on the 1953 Santa Fe Dining Car Menu
A Tall Stack of Buttermilk or Multigrain Pancakes. Served with your choice of Regular or Sugar-Free Syrup or Apple Cinnamon Sauce
Bright Angel Breakfast Sandwich -Featured on the 1942 Santa Fe Dining Car Menu
Grilled Brioche Roll with Two Eggs* Any Style, Sliced Ham, Sliced Avocado, & Pepper-jack Cheese, Served with Your Choice of Hash Browns or Fresh Fruit Salad
Harvey House Café Lunch Menu Highlights
Ponderosa Chicken Club - Appeared on the 1938 El Tovar Dining Room Menu
Grilled Chicken & Bacon, Cheddar Cheese, Lettuce, & Tomato on a Brioche Roll with Dijon Mustard
Chili Con Carne - Appeared on the 1956 Bright Angel Restaurant Menu
Made with Fresh Ground Beef, Plump Red Tomatoes, Beans, Onions, Peppers, Cotija Cheese & a Secret Blend of Spices loaded into a Sourdough Bowl with Crema & Diced Onion
Chef's Choice House Made Cobbler - Appeared on the 1940 La Posada Menu
Harvey House Café Dinner Menu highlights
Guacamole Monterey - Featured on the 1980's El Tovar Dining Room Menu
Served with Tortilla Chips
Arizona Tom Turkey -Featured on the 1939 Bright Angel Menu
Sliced Roasted Turkey, Served with Sweet Potato, Chef's Choice Vegetable, & Mango Cranberry Sauce
The River Runner - Featured on the 1953 Santa Fe Dining Car Menu
A Boneless Trout Fillet, Lightly Dusted in Seasoned Flour & Sautéed to Tender Perfection. Served with Citrus Butter, Rice, & Seasonal Vegetables
Santa Fe Spaghetti - Featured on the 1949 Bright Angel Menu
Homestyle Meatballs Smothered in Marinara or Meat Sauce with Smoked Mozzarella Cheese, Roasted Tomato, & Pesto Garnish accompanied with Warm Garlic Toast & Parmesan Cheese
House Made Bread Pudding - Appeared on the 1945 Cleveland Union Terminal Café Menu
served with Whipped Topping & Hot Caramel Sauce
New York Style Cheesecake - Appeared on the 1945 Cleveland Union Terminal Café Menu
A Rich & Creamy Tradition with Strawberry Compote or Caramel Sauce
Harvey House Cafe Hours
- Breakfast: 7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
- Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
- Dinner: 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
- Lounge: 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- First-come, first-served. Reservations are not available
- Dress code is casual
Address: Bright Angel Lodge, Desert View Dr., Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Phone: 928-638-2631
Grand Canyon South Rim Restaurants - Quick Service
Bright Angel Ice Cream Fountain
Located at the Bright Angel Lodge the Bright Angel Ice Cream Fountain is open seasonally. This restaurant offers light snacks, scoops of hard-packed premium ice cream along with wrapped sandwiches, hot dogs, Danish and fresh fruit.
Canyon Coffee House
The Canyon Coffee House is located inside the Bright Angel Lodge. They offer on-the-go breakfast snacks and muffins along with 100% Rain forest Alliance Coffee, espresso, and cappuccino.
- Open year-round
- 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Maswik Food Court
The Maswik Food Court is located inside the Maswik Lodge and is open year-round. The Maswik Food Court offers four individual food stations including breakfast selections and traditional lunch and dinner options. Lunch and dinner options include pasta, grilled burgers, hot sandwiches, and international selections.
Address: Maswik Lodge, Desert View Dr., Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Maswik Pizza Pub
The Maswik Pizza Pub is located inside the Maswik Lodge and is open year-round. You can enjoy your pizza dine-in or carry out, whole or by the slice. The Maswik Pizza Pub also has soda, local draft beers, and wine. If you are worried about missing a game the Maswik Pizza Pub has flat-screen TV's that play the current games.
We really enjoyed the pizza at Maswik Pizza Pub. It was the perfect place to take a deep breath and figure out our plans for the next day while enjoying a hot slice of pizza. The cinnamon breadsticks are fantastic! The perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring the Grand Canyon. They had a great selection of local beers on tap.
Address: Maswik Lodge, Desert View Dr., Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Grand Canyon Bars and Lounges
Do you need a cold draft beer or cocktail while relaxing after a full day of exploring the Grand Canyon? Don't worry there are multiple options for Grand Canyon Bars and Lounges to check out.
If you are planning on enjoying an alcoholic beverage please be aware that Arizona law requires proof of age from guests who appear under the age of 30. The following identification can be used to provide proof of age - US Driver's license or Canadian driver's license, passport or passport card, military ID, valid state identification card or Mexican Voter ID Card.
El Tovar Lounge
Located in the historic El Tovar Hotel the lounge has a veranda you can gaze out at the Grand Canyon from while sipping on a delicious cocktail or ice-cold beer. We were told to make sure and keep a roof over your head while enjoying your drinks so you are not violating open container laws.
Harvey House Tavern
The Harvey House Tavern is located inside the Bright Angel Lodge. The bar is filled with historic murals depicting amazing Grand Canyon scenes. You can enjoy listening to folk musicians and western singers who provide a small taste of Western culture seasonally.
- Open year-round
- 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Dress code is casual
- Reservations are not required
Arizona Room
Open seasonally the Arizona Room at the Bright Angel Lodge offers a full-service bar with draft beer, wine, and locally produced Arizona spirits.
You really can't go wrong enjoying one of these great Grand Canyon Restaurants. From fine dining to pizza and a beer there is something for everyone. If you are looking to enjoy a sit down restaurant make sure and book reservations as soon as you have an idea the date and time you want to go.
This is especially true during spring break and the summer season. The park can get a bit crazy with visitors and you will want to make sure you get into the South Rim Restaurant you want to check out.
Grand Canyon National Park Guided Tours
45-Minute Helicopter Flight over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (2,024+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 45 Minutes | 🚁 Check Rates and Availability
No ground-level view prepares you for the scale of the Grand Canyon from the air. This 45-minute flight with Maverick Helicopters departs from Tusayan, crosses the Kaibab National Forest, follows the Colorado River upstream past the Painted Desert and Desert View Watchtower, and flies through the Dragon Corridor, the canyon's widest and deepest section, before returning south. More than 2,000 reviewers call it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Multiple departure times available. Likely to sell out, especially in peak season.
3-Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to the Grand Canyon
⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars (1,000+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 3 hours | 🚙🌅 Check Rates and Availability
The most popular guided tour at the South Rim. A 4WD safari vehicle takes small groups through the back roads of the Kaibab National Forest, bypassing the crowded south entrance gate on permits held since 1993, with stops at Yavapai Point, Pipe Creek Vista, and Grandview Point for the sunset. Guides earn extraordinary reviews for their knowledge of the park's geology, wildlife, and history. Blankets provided. Maximum 12 guests. Departs two hours before sunset. Booked an average of 44 days in advance.
Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner
⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars (100+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | 🍽️🌅 Check Rates and Availability
Unleash your inner explorer with veteran local Eric Albanese. Immerse yourself in the Grand Canyon's majestic beauty, rich history, and fascinating geology. You will embark on a scenic 20-mile tour tracing the South Rim of the canyon, stopping at 4-5 locations.
You can relax in luxury with WI-FI, snacks, and hot or cold drinks while listening to the great detail that your guide has learned during the 10 years of living in the Grand Canyon area. Get up close to the canyon's stunning views with high-powered Celestron binoculars. You will also get to enjoy a delicious dinner at We Cook Pizza and Pasta.
Click Here for a complete list of tours offered at Grand Canyon National Park!
Lodging Options in Grand Canyon National Park
⭐️ 4.4 of 5 Stars - The El Tovar - Click here for Rates and Availability.
A National Historic Landmark and member of Historic Hotels of America, sitting just 20 feet from the rim of the Grand Canyon and widely regarded as the finest hotel inside any national park in America since opening its doors in 1905!
Designed as a cross between a Swiss chalet and a Norwegian villa and built from local limestone and Oregon pine, the El Tovar has hosted Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, Paul McCartney, and Oprah Winfrey. All 78 individually designed rooms and suites feature air conditioning, mini-fridges, Keurig coffee makers, satellite TVs, and private bathrooms, with select canyon-view suites featuring private balconies perched directly above the rim. The El Tovar Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with canyon views, the lounge bar is perfect for post-hike cocktails, and a gift shop, curio shop, newsstand, and concierge round out the amenities. Free area shuttle, free parking, and room service available. No elevator, no pets, open year-round.
⭐️ 4.1 of 5 Stars - Yavapai Lodge - Click Here for Rates and Availability
Tucked in a beautiful ponderosa pine forest just a 10-minute walk from Mather Point and the Grand Canyon Rim Trail!
Split between two sections, Yavapai East offers air-conditioned rooms with ADA accessible options and family rooms with bunk beds sleeping up to 6, while Yavapai West features cozy ceiling fan rooms in single-story buildings with pet-friendly options and a Pets in the Park welcome package. Two restaurants serve breakfast through dinner, the Yavapai Tavern pours drinks from noon to 9 PM, and a Starbucks opens at 6 AM for early-rising hikers. Additional amenities include a lobby fireplace, gift shop, EV and Tesla charging stations, free area shuttle, free WiFi, and free parking. One of the most family and pet-friendly in-park lodges in the entire national park system!
⭐️ 4.4 of 5 Stars - Bright Angel Lodge - Click Here for Rates and Availability
A National Historic Landmark designed by the legendary Mary Colter in 1935, sitting directly on the South Rim at the top of the famous Bright Angel Trailhead with the most affordable rim-side lodging inside Grand Canyon!
The 90 rooms and cabins range from budget-friendly lodge rooms with shared baths to charming private rim cabins featuring gas fireplaces and partial canyon views, making this the best value for money of any in-park lodge at the Grand Canyon. Three on-site dining options include the Harvey House Cafe serving diner classics all day in the Fred Harvey tradition, the Arizona Room with Southwestern cuisine, and the Canyon Coffee House for shade-grown organic espresso and cappuccino before hitting the trail. Evening drinks and seasonal live entertainment at the Bright Angel Bar round out the experience perfectly. Also on site: a small history museum, gift shop, ice cream fountain, tour and mule ride booking desk, free WiFi in public areas, and free parking. No elevator, no pets, no air conditioning in standard rooms, open year-round!
⭐️ 4.1 of 5 Stars - Kachina Lodge - Click Here for Rates and Availability
⭐️ 4.2 of 5 Stars - Thunderbird Lodge - Click Here for Rates and Availability
Two sister lodges built in 1968 as part of the National Park Service's Mission 66 program, sitting directly on the South Rim in the heart of Grand Canyon Village's Historic District, steps from the Bright Angel Trailhead and Rim Trail!
Their distinctive stair-stepped concrete facades were intentionally designed to mirror the layered rock formations of the canyon walls below, blending beautifully into the rim rather than competing with it. Both offer the same clean, comfortable modern rooms with Keurig coffee makers, mini-fridges, flat-screen satellite TVs, in-room safes, hair dryers, air conditioning, and free WiFi, with select canyon-side rooms at Kachina featuring partial Grand Canyon views. Free area shuttle and free parking included.
⭐️ 4.2 of 5 Stars -Maswik Lodge - Click Here for Rates and Availability
Tucked among several acres of ponderosa pine forest just a quarter mile from the South Rim with a free Village shuttle stop right at the lobby door!
Named after the Hopi Kachina spirit said to guard the Grand Canyon, Maswik features 280 rooms split between two sections. The newly renovated Maswik South, completed in 2022, features interior corridors, full elevator access, private patios and balconies, and spacious kitchenettes with a cooktop, microwave, apartment-sized fridge, coffee maker, and utensils, making it a great pick for families and extended stays. All rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, mini-fridge, Keurig coffee maker, and free WiFi. The Maswik Food Court serves breakfast through dinner with vegetarian and gluten-free options, and the Pizza Pub pours cold beer and wood-fired pies. Also on site: gift shop, ATM, EV charging, RV parking, free area shuttle, and free self-parking.
Lodging in Tusayan, Arizona (Just outside Grand Canyon's south entrance)
⭐️ 3.9 of 5 Stars - Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel - Click Here for Rates and Availability
Take advantage of a terrace, a garden, and a bar at Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. Be sure to enjoy a meal at JJKs, the onsite family restaurant. Free in-room Wi-Fi and a 24-hour business center are available to all guests.
⭐️ 4.2 of 5 Stars - The Grand Hotel - Click Here for Rates and Availabity
At The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon, you can look forward to shopping on site, a fireplace in the lobby, and a bar. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. The onsite restaurant, Canyon Star Steakhouse, features American cuisine and happy hour. Stay connected with free in-room Wi-Fi, and guests can find other amenities such as a 24-hour business center.
Click on this link or the map below to see additional hotels and vacation rentals near the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon National Park Entrance Fee
New in 2026: Each Non-US Resident aged 16 and older visiting Grand Canyon National Park must pay a $100 nonresident fee (in addition to the standard entrance fee), unless admitted with an annual or America the Beautiful Pass. This includes nonresidents entering as part of a commercial tour group, commercial use authorization (CUA) group, or concessioner tour group.
Park entrance fees are separate from camping and lodging fees.
Park Entrance Pass - $35.00 Per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle - $30.00 Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Per-Person Entrance Pass - $20.00 Visitors 16 years or older who enter on foot, bicycle, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.
$8.00 per person for Non-Commercial Group (16+ persons)
$8.00 per person for vehicles with a capacity of 1-25
$300.00 for Commercial Motor Coach with 26+ seats
Learn more about National Park Passes for parks that have an entrance fee.
$80.00 - For the America the Beautiful/National Park Pass. The pass covers entrance fees to all US National Park Sites and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites for an entire year and covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and up to 4 adults for per-person sites.
Buy your pass at this link, and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.
National Park Free Entrance Days -Mark your calendars with the free entrance days the National Park Service offers for US citizens and residents.
Additional Grand Canyon National Park Resources
- Complete Guide to exploring Grand Canyon National Park
- Things To Do in Grand Canyon National Park
- Grand Canyon Winter Guide
- Grand Canyon Restaurants
- Grand Canyon Shuttle Bus Guide
- Grand Canyon Lodging Guide
- Grand Canyon Camping Guide
Parks near National Park
- Wupatki National Monument
- Navajo National Monument
- Pipe Springs National Monument
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area
- Hubbel Trading Post National Historic Site
- Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Tuzigoot National Monument
Check out all of the Arizona National Parks along with neighboring National Parks in Utah, National Parks in New Mexico, California National Parks, Colorado National Parks, and Nevada National Parks
Check out this list of US National Parks to count how many you have visited!
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