Start your day traveling southeast through the desert with a photo stop at the iconic Route 66. Then, cross the vast Mojave Desert before arriving at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore the canyon’s south edge while learning how the Colorado River carved this geological masterpiece over millions of years. After lunch, continue east along the canyon, stopping at local Native American marketplaces where you can browse unique handmade arts and crafts.

Visit the unique Desert View Watchtower, a stone structure designed by Mary Colter inspired by Ancestral Puebloan architecture. From this vantage point, see the Colorado River bend northward and take in sweeping views of the Painted Desert stretching toward Navajo and Hopi tribal lands.

Located just across the plaza from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center at the South Rim, you’ll find a well-stocked shop featuring a variety of books about the canyon. This shop also offers a wide selection of unique Grand Canyon gifts and souvenirs to take home.