Williams

Known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, Williams offers cool summers as well as some of the most picturesque stops along Arizona’s stretch of historic route 66.

A quaint mountain town with the personality of an authentic Western village, Williams lies under a canopy of Ponderosa Pines of the Kaibab Forest. Just steps away, enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and pretty much whatever else you can think to do outdoors.

It’s also just an hour’s drive from one of the seven natural wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon. Tired of driving? Hop aboard the Grand Canyon Railway for a two-hour ride straight into the national park.

The grand daddy of all canyons aside, Williams can serve as a jumping off point for all sorts of other excursions. Bearizona, for instance, is a drive-through wildlife park that gets you close to native animals, including black bears (of course!) and wolves. Williams’ Historic Route 66 mountainside town is lined with interesting shops and galleries packed with plenty of charm. If you like a little dirt in your grill, ATV, mountain bike, and dirt bike trails can deliver. There are also accommodations suited for just about every taste, from campsites under the stars to cozy bed & breakfasts to welcoming hotels.