CITY SPOTLIGHT:

YOUR GUIDE TO Williams, Arizona

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Know Before You Go: About Williams

Step back in time and discover Williams— a splendid, rugged town near the stunning Grand Canyon.

Up for adventure? Head to Williams, Arizona for the experience of a lifetime in the splendid, rugged, ever-changing Colorado River gorge: the Grand Canyon. Whether you hop aboard the vintage steam and diesel locomotives of Williams' Grand Canyon Railway, or enjoy the city's many on-your-way-to-the-canyon activities, a trip to this gateway city creates lasting memories. Step back in time or trek through nature during your stay in Williams!

Sunny Days, Snowy Winters

Sitting in its niche in Arizona's high desert country at the edge of a Ponderosa pine forest, Williams is a warm-weather dream—with July highs at 84 degrees and some 266 sunny days a year. But winter does come to this friendly town, with temperatures dipping to the 20s in January. If you're planning a winter visit, bring warm coats for everyone and take into account the 70 inches of annual snowfall.

Gateway to the Grandest Canyon of Them All

Your family will love the Old West flavor of this former railroading and logging town, with renovated Victorians that line up along legendary Route 66. Ogling the bison, wolves and black bears roaming free in the drive-through Bearizona attraction makes for great photos and fun too. But the real show here is the Grand Canyon and, in Williams, you'll dive into the Great Gorge's wonders before you even get to the South Rim. Hop aboard the vintage Grand Canyon Railroad for a two-hour ride to the park, complete with Wild West shows and country music.

Welcoming is What Williams Does Best

You and your clan help contribute to Williams' primary industry when you gather in this Western gem of a city. Almost a million folks visit Williams on their way to the Grand Canyon each year, and tourism brings home the bacon to locals. Some work in hotels or restaurants, others in government, transportation or health care. Given its small size and rural location, Williams is delightfully free of big businesses and factories, and the resulting congestion and pollution.

Getting to and From Williams

If you are driving to Williams, you aren't alone—the drive up I-40 is a very popular route to the Grand Canyon—but other options are available. Amtrak's Southwest Chief line stops just outside Williams, and then you can shuttle or cab into town. You can also fly into Phoenix or Flagstaff, rent some wheels and drive into Williams. It's convenient to have a car to get around, given the lack of reliable, in-town public transportation.

Ready to travel? Find hotels in Williams.

Things to Do in Williams

There's plenty to do in this small Arizona gem just west of Flagstaff. Find out what you should see on your next trip.