Relaxed, unsophisticated, and still very much “western,” Williams, Arizona, a small city nestled in the pine country of Arizona, is located on the Historic US Route 66. It still sustains the character of its rugged and unruly days. Although the saloons are still the gathering spots, the bordellos and gambling rooms are a thing of its pioneer past. Williams, Arizona, the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, is a charming resting place for travelers from all over the world. Read on to find out the 15 best things to do in Williams, AZ.
1. See Bill Williams Mountain
Located close to Kaibab National Forest, Bill Williams Mountain stands at 9170 ft (2795 m). It was named after Bill Williams, a scout guide, hunter, and mountain man. He also worked as an interpreter for the government and led plenty of expeditions in the West. The mountain is often seen as an isolated peak but it is actually part of a volcanic field. If you are visiting the mountain, you can hike through aspen and pine trees. The trail, which is dotted with wildflowers, is classified as moderate to difficult. Despite that, the views are absolutely amazing from the summit.
Bill Williams Mountain
Address: Coconino County, Arizona, U.S.
2. Explore Kaibab National Forest
Located in Northern Arizona, Kaibab National Forest features prairies, peaks, canyons, and even plateaus. With these varied landscapes, this ponderosa pine forest has always something for everyone. It comprises the North Kaibab Ranger District (offices in Fredonia) and the South Kaibab. The latter is divided into two more sections including Williams Ranger District and Tusayan Ranger District. Although both districts are on the largest part of the forest, they still have their own features. If you are into mountains and lakes, then do check out Williams. If you are looking for a place to hike or drive, then don’t hesitate to bring your bike to Tusayan.
Kaibab National Forest
Address: 800 S 6th St, Williams, AZ 86046
Website: Kaibab National Forest
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
3. Shop till you drop at Canyon Vista Mall
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A vacation in Williams will never be complete without shopping! Located on Route 66, Canyon Vista Mall is an ideal place for a pit stop. Whether you’re looking for leather goods or western souvenirs, you can find it all here. In case you and your companions get hungry, don’t worry as there are also restaurants next to this building. Take a break from exploring the great outdoors, and go on a shopping spree at Canyon Vista Mall.
Canyon Vista Mall
Address: 117 W Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046
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4. Check out Bill Williams Monument Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Aside from the mountain, this city also built a community park to honor and celebrate Bill Williams. When you visit, you will also see Bill Williams’ statue that was erected in 1980. This open space sees nearly thousands of visitors every year, and it is even considered one of the most photographed places in Williams. The park hosts Bill Williams Rendezvous Day that is often attended by Arizonians.
Bill Williams Monument Park
Address: Williams, AZ 86046
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Try the pies at Pine Country Restaurant
Love pies? You’re in luck! Get the world-famous homemade pies only at Pine Country Restaurant. Although pies are the standout dish at this restaurant, it doesn’t mean you can’t try other mouthwatering offerings here. This cozy restaurant, featuring vintage decor, will remind you of all the nostalgic memories the moment you step in. Besides pies, try out a variety of home-style comfort foods that are served generously such as onion rings, flatbread cheese pizza, mozzarella cheese sticks, and a hot turkey sandwich.
Pine Country Restaurant
Address: 107 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046
Website: Pine Country Restaurant
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
6. Visit DJ's Wild West Junction
Located along Historic Rte. 66, the Old West comes to life at the Wild West Junction. This Western-themed Inn includes a lively saloon, good, wholesome, old time fun for young and old alike, special events, and great food at an informal BBQ restaurant with a courtyard setting as a town square in the Old West.
DJ's Wild West Junction
Address: 321 E Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Website: DJ’s Wild West Junction
7. Stop by Pete's Rt 66 Gas Station Museum
Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum is the best place to see Route 66 memorabilia. It is very authentic, and excellent information about Williams, Route 66, and all the old gas stations is provided during the tour. Admission is free, but you should leave a tip to support this great place. Be sure you make this museum a stop on your itinerary and visit to get a better understanding of the iconic Route 66.
Pete's Rt 66 Gas Station Museum
Address: 101 E Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Website: Pete’s Rt 66 Gas Station Museum
8. Step back in time at Grand Canyon Railway
Listen to the train whistle penetrate the fresh morning air, and hop aboard the train to begin your event filled journey. Sing along with the wandering musicians, participate in an enactment of an old west train robbery, and enjoy the wonderful antics of western characters as they recreate the early 1900’s train travel.
Grand Canyon Railway
Address: 233 North Grand Canyon Boulevard, Williams, AZ 86046-2563, USA
Website: Grand Canyon Railway
9. See Williams Depot
Williams Depot was built in 1908 and today is where passengers purchase their tickets for the Grand Canyon Railway. The depot was a haven for travelers coming back from and heading to California along the main rail line running from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Williams Depot
Address: 233 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Website: Williams Depot
10. Sample handcrafted brews at Grand Canyon Brewing Company
Whether you’re hiking, boating, kayaking on the Colorado River, or camping, the Grand Canyon Brewing Company inspires its loyal customers to live an intriguing life, discover a ‘Grand Canyon State of Mind’, and to pursue adventure through the delight of its handcrafted brews. Located next door to the brewery and tap room, customers can appreciate this local handcrafted beer at the Cruisers Route 66 Café and gift shop.
Grand Canyon Brewing Company
Address: 301 N 7th St, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Website: Grand Canyon Brewing Company
11. Sip a glass of wine at Grand Canyon Wine Company
The Grand Canyon Wine Co. is impassioned about keeping it local, using only the best local Arizona grapes. At The Grand Canyon Wine Co., they believe enjoying great wine is a fun thing to do that doesn’t need a lot of fuss; after all, isn’t drinking good wine supposed to be fun? Come visit and share a glass in the tasting room.
Grand Canyon Wine Company
Website: Grand Canyon Wine Company
12. Venture through Sycamore Canyon
There are no paved roads, no developed campgrounds, and no motorized vehicles allowed past the entrance. This is the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. If you have an adventure on your mind, then you will discover a wilderness seclusion, a true natural habitation, and a back country nirvana. You will feel like you were the first human to observe Sycamore Canyon’s stunning rock formations, swimming holes, deep gorges, waterfalls, and rich wetland environment.
Sycamore Canyon
Address: Sycamore Canyon Wilderness, Arizona, USA
Website: Sycamore Canyon
13. See adorable deer up close at Grand Canyon Deer Farm
The Deer Farm has been enjoyed by animal lovers of all ages for over 40 years. Only by raising them from birth does it allow for such an opportunity to get ‘hands-on’ close to such beautiful creatures. They work continuously taking care of the farm wildlife, so you will accumulate memories that will last a lifetime. Check out the gift shop as well. It has a selection that expresses Arizona’s past and present as well as the American West.
Grand Canyon Deer Farm
Address: 6769 Deer Farm Rd, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Website: Grand Canyon Deer Farm
14. Zip through Route 66 Zipline
Awesome family fun that adds a little bit of scary! The one-of-a-kind Zipline Ride is fun for everyone. Have a seat, strap in, and take off flying! Simple, safe, and fun! Sit beside your friends and fly through the sky and land where your other group members are ready to share or have already shared the exhilarating experience as the zipline comes to an exciting stop!
Route 66 Zipline
Address: 120 Historic Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Website: Route 66 Zipline
15. Visit Bearizona Wildlife Park (from USD 25.0)
While visiting the Grand Canyon, you will encounter plenty of animals at the Bearizona Wildlife Park. This drive-through wildlife park features 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) of wild Arizona forestland where you will see elk, wolves, coyotes, bisons, black bears, goats, deer, sheep, and more. Also, the park is a walking live museum exhibit that’s home to baby animals - like bear cubs and wolf pups. Here you will also see smaller species of wildlife, a petting zoo, and more.
Bearizona Drive-Thru Wildlife Park Ticket
Duration: 1 to 10 hours
A little piece of the American West you can call your own
Well, as our list of best places to visit comes to a close; when you make your visit, you will acquire a collection of memories that will be unforgettable. You will see wonderful parts of nature, learn much of the history of Route 66, and even travel to places where the American pioneers blazed new trails to the West. And, the best way to do this is to stay at a cabin rental.
History
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