Gotta’ Love ‘Em: Grand Canyon’s Most Romantic Spots

The Grand Canyon is as iconic a destination as there is. It’s not unusual for visitors to burst into tears when they first behold its endless majesty. This sense of awe is part of the Grand Canyon experience, accompanying guests as they explore vista points, raft the Colorado, or descend beneath the rim on winding trails. It’s also what can make the canyon a powerfully romantic destination, offering opportunities that are steeped in beauty and laced with amour. Here are the sights, seasons, and special moments that make Grand Canyon a romantic getaway.

The Secret Season

National Park aficionados will tell you the best time to visit is during the “secret season” (November through February). With fewer travelers during the winter season, you’ll feel like the canyon was made just for you and your sweetheart. As the days grow shorter this time of year, watch the mesmerizing sunset in the late afternoon, creating the perfect atmosphere to unwind in a cozy lounge or retreat to the tranquility of your room.

Iconic Lodging

Nothing says “romance” quite like booking a special getaway for two. Stay in a one-of-a-kind suite, private cabin, or three-story chalet just outside the breathtaking canyon. The iconic El Tovar Hotel is a must-visit destination with its historic charm and 78 uniquely designed rooms. Each of the 12 hotel suites has its own name, identity, and decor, like the Zane Grey Suite with its attached sitting area and balcony adorned with exclusive wall art. For an exclusive experience in the park, check out the one-of-a-kind Buckey O’Neill Cabin at Bright Angel. Alternatively, stay at The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon, the region’s only 3-diamond hotel. With an indoor heated swimming pool and hot tub, this modern chalet-like hotel offers the perfect blend of rustic and contemporary design. Fully renovated guestrooms provide a bright and comfortable ambiance, complete with all the amenities you desire.

The Historic Village

Don’t miss the enchantment of the Historic Village. Step back in time with your partner as you explore this living museum of history. Marvel at the charming buildings that have stood since the early 1900s and delve into the fascinating stories of the Indigenous people and pioneers of the area. Hold hands and take in the awe-inspiring sights of iconic structures like Kolb Studio, the Hopi House, Lookout Studio, and Hermit’s Rest. Discover the captivating tales of the Kolb Brothers, early photographers at the Grand Canyon, and the legendary architect, Mary J Colter, who designed the extraordinary Bright Angel Lodge, the Hopi House, Lookout Studio, Hermit’s Rest.

A Table for Two

No other restaurant on earth matches the setting of the El Tovar Dining Room — perfect for celebrating a special occasion with your loved one. With a classic look that captures the essence of America’s national parks, it features wonderful paintings of various Native American tribes and a menu that includes dishes like oven roasted duck, hand-cut grilled Arizona-grown filet mignon, and pan-seared steelhead with lemon garlic butter. To add a dash of romance, request a cozy table for two either overlooking the South Rim or near one of the dining room’s two fireplaces.

Stunning Views

There’s something undeniably magical about experiencing the sunrises and sunsets at the Grand Canyon with your special someone. As the sun slowly rises or dips below the breathtaking landscape, the colors of the sky and the canyon transform before your eyes. The reds and oranges dance with the pinks and purples, creating a surreal display that is impossible to capture in photographs alone. Sharing this moment with someone you love only enhances its beauty, as you both marvel at the majesty of nature while enjoying each other’s company. It’s an experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Wonderful Walks

One of the simplest, yet greatest pleasures during a visit to the Grand Canyon is walking along Grand Canyon’s Rim Trail. Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring, ever-changing views as you journey along the Trail of Time towards the Yavapai Geology Museum. End your walk at the museum’s large bay window, where you’ll be captivated by the unrivaled, panoramic vistas that make this spot one of the most romantic in the entire park.

Unforgettable Memories

Looking for a memorable keepsake or gift to mark your romantic interlude? Look no farther than Grand Canyon shops and boutiques with their unique merchandise. Arguably the finest items are found in the El Tovar Gift Shop, which features high-end items including exquisite handmade silver and turquoise jewelry — rings, earrings, brooches, pins, and pendants among them — as well as books, photographs, paintings, ceramics, and assorted souvenirs. Across the way in the Hopi House, a range of Native American-crafted products — pottery, rugs, paintings, apparel, jewelry, and the like — make this one of the finest shops in the American Southwest. Just the place for that perfect memento of your time together.

A Journey Back in Time

For a truly unique trip to the Grand Canyon, begin your journey in Williams, Arizona and reserve the elegant Rail Baron Suite aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. This historic, railway is the locomotive link that connects the national park to the iconic retro community of Williams, the last Route 66 town bypassed by America’s interstate system. Today the town remains centered on historic Route 66, just a block away from the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.

For more travel experiences available from the Xanterra Travel Collection^® and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/stories.