SLEEP: For the best view, rent one of the rustic-but-clean cabins at the Bright Angel Lodge, perched along the canyon’s southern edge. Cabins with full baths from $67 at www.xanterra.com.
RIDE: The Grand Canyon Railway operates daily round trips from historic Williams, Ariz. (60 miles away), in beautifully restored 1923 rail cars. Turn-of-the-century bandits ride up on horseback to “rob” the train, only to be captured by the sheriff (grandcanyonrailway.com). The overnight package lets you explore Williams, where Old Route 66 is flanked with refurbished restaurants and saloons. You can save cash by booking through AAA.
SHOP: Browse the Kolb Studio–on the canyon’s south rim–for the best selection of Grand Canyon books, as well as a photo gallery of nature and historic shots.
EAT: Grab a late lunch in the chalet-style dining room of the historic El Tovar Hotel. Built in 1905, it’s a prime example of the “park-itecture” lodging that was big in Teddy Roosevelt’s day. And yes, he did sleep here.
SEE: After dinner, walk along the paved Rim Trail to the Yavapai observation deck, one of the canyon’s most spectacular viewing points, including a stretch of the Colorado River. Too full to hike? Catch the free shuttle bus.
