Don’t be afraid to bring your children – at any age to the Grand Canyon. When visiting the Grand Canyon, many families worry that there isn’t enough for children to do, however, quite the opposite is true. There are many activities, based on your children’s age that will keep even the most active child entertained.

Suggestions

The IMAX® Movie, Grand Canyon: Rivers of Time plays on the giant 6 story screen and features exciting scenery and excellent photography, plus an incredible sound system that can hold the attention of any age. All ages will be thrilled sitting in the air conditioned theater with this adventurous film.

The Grand Canyon Railway

  • A spectacular journey that leaves and returns from the South Rim. Complete with a glass roof, Wild West shooting scenes, actors and actresses and musicians that keep audiences entertained and fabulous views from around the canyon. This is a trip every age will enjoy – from infant to centenarian.  The ride can take 2 to 4 hours and can include lunch.

Mule Rides

  • For children old enough to ride on a mule, this excursion is undoubtedly one of the most remembered tours during a child’s lifetime. Mule rides are available for different lengths of time, different paths or adventures.

Helicopter and Plane Tours

  • The aerial tours provide amazing views of the Grand Canyon.  Children of all ages are captivated by the colors and different variations found within the Park.

Walking and Hiking Tours

  • Many of the walking or hiking tours are short enough to keep young attention spans – especially those tours that are very informative and with guides that take the time to explain things to inquisitive minds.

Historical Buildings and artsy gift shops

  • The historical buildings around the Grand Canyon provide imaginative children interesting tidbits of knowledge and the arts and crafts by the indigenous tribes. Help your children expand their understanding of Native Tribe cultures and history. An excellent education, especially when guided through the buildings by an informative ranger or tour guide.
  • Children from 4 to 14 can earn Junior Ranger’s Badges by completing a special Ranger Badge booklet that tells all about the Grand Canyon Park and by writing about their own amazing experiences they have while visiting the Park. The booklets are found at the Grand Canyon Visitor Centers.

Yavapai Point

  • A beautiful lookout area that is an excellent opportunity for children of all ages to see a large range of the Grand Canyon – from an area that is relatively close to the stores and Park hotels and lodges.

Bus Tours

  • Bus Tours allow those children who cannot walk as fast as adults a chance to see the beautiful surroundings in relative comfort of air conditioned transportation.
  • The Tusayan Ruins are literally stones that are all that are left of the Anasazi tribe civilization that once endured the harsh life around the Grand Canyon. The Plaques and historical markets tell interesting tales that keep most school aged children interested and continue through to the museum which exhibits interesting artifacts and displays of artwork.