15 Best & Fun Things To Do in Williams Az (Arizona)

Are you searching for the best things to do in Williams AZ? William is a small town in northern Arizona that feels like it’s from a different time. It’s hidden away in the ponderosa pine forests, which are very beautiful.

The city is more than just its proximity to one of the world’s natural wonders, even though the town serves as a gateway to the famous Grand Canyon National Park.

Williams has many things to do, including rides on historic trains, shootouts in the Old West, safaris to see animals, and astronomy tours.

In this post, we’ll highlight the best places to visit in Williams, Arizona, which are guaranteed to make your trip there memorable.

What are the Best Things To Do in Williams Az (Arizona)

#1. Explore the Grand Canyon Railway

For most backpackers, the proximity of this little town (Williams, Az) to the Grand Canyon makes the allure of their trip here more thrilling and unforgettable. One rewarding way to tour the Grand Canyon Railway is through the South Rim.

Jumping on board, this train feels like a bit of a voyage to the 1900s, when the railroad first arrived in Grand Canyon. Its nearly three-hour ride offers impressive sights of cattle farms and cliffs that characterize the beautiful terrain.

During the trip, you will learn a lot about the Old West and the Grand Canyon’s history as you’re greeted with a fascinating view of marauding donkeys, deer, and elk through the window.

Once at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, you save enough time to contract a tour guide or go solo exploring the border footpaths and towers.

You could make a quick stop at the historic El Tovar Hotel for a quick lunch before leaping aboard the caravan back to Williams Az, where you’d find a gang of eager tourists as excited, or even more, as you’re. This weekend, add this to your list of fun things to do in Williams, Arizona.

Address: 233 North, Grand Canyon Boulevard, Williams Arizona

#2. See the Bearizona Wildlife Park

Your trip to Williams Az isn’t complete without a visit to the Bearizona Wildlife Park. The Bearizona Wildlife Park is one of the striking spots to visit while visiting Williams, Az.

The Wildlife Park gives you an up-close view of animals such as black sourpuss, buzzards, bison, and mountain goats often in an extraordinary way.

A drive-through portion for visitors’ cars or the park’s shuttle bus offers a clearer view of the park. There’s also another area of the park that allows you to walk the turfs where the animals are enclosed, offering excellent views of their daily activities, animals like otters, foxes, and jaguars.

Be sure to catch one of the Birds of Prey demonstrations to learn about the great horned owls and hawks. Feel the wind of a hawk’s wing brush above your head as the handlers showcase the stealth flight patterns of these magnificent animals.

With a daily ticket, you get to tour all you want (walking or driving), whichever works for you.

Address: 1500 East, Historic Route 66, Williams, Arizona.

#3. Stroll Route 66

Famous Route 66 is one of the best places to visit in Williams, Arizona. It’s right in the heart of Williams, Arizona, so you can park your car and walk through while browsing the various gift shops, restaurants, and notable places.

Ensure to get close to the brass plaques on either side of the buildings with explanations of what it was back in time.

You’d be amazed at how quickly what used to be the former post office, fire post, grocery shop, bank, and many more have been modified into quirky marts.

The nightlife here is scenic, as the town gradually lights up with new neon signs on business signage as folk music dating back to the ’50s pipes out of outmoded cafes.

#4. Tour the Grand Canyon Deer Farm

Though the famous Route 66 in Williams, Az, may offer several vintage sights, the Grand Canyon Deer Farm offers much more, the choicest even, particularly for those looking to embark on family getaways.

It might equally interest you to know that this 10-acre deer ranch has existed for fifty years. While there, get up close to the deers, elks and a host of others as they are being hand-raised and taught to interact with humans- visitors.

Stroll through the grassland and watch bison (llamas, wallabies, camels, braggadocios, wild goats and the very popular Mozart de cockatoo. Spice up the tour by hand-feeding a deer or two, just for the joy of it.

The Grand Canyon Deer Farm has a unique charm that lets visitors see a side of nature that they probably can’t see anywhere else. Add this to your list of 10 Things to do in Williams, AZ.

Location: 6769 East, Deer Farm Road, Williams Arizona

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#5. Check Out Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum

If a tour of Route 66, Williams Az, gives you nostalgia, expect more from the rebuilt Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum, Williams, Az. This small steam station museum has a rich knowledge of the famous gas station.

Tour the vicinity to find antiquated car models overlooking the museum and a garage crammed with posters, steam pumps, and much more.

The place is open every day throughout the summer. However, for off-seasons, we suggest you call them before dropping by. Nevertheless, a chance to take a tiny-winy to peek through the tinted windows is always available.

Location: 101 East, Route 66, Williams Arizona

#6. Take A Trip to the Kaibab National Forest Petroglyphs

Another stunning aspect of Williams, Az, to look out for is the Kaibab Forest Petroglyphs. This prehistoric site in Williams, Az, offers abundant information about the former dwellers of the Kaibab National Forest dating as far back as a thousand years ago.

For hikers, set off the Keyhole Sink Trail and find your way through the pine woodland leading up to the historical petroglyphs etched onto the walls of the Grand Canyon.

History shows that this communication method worked well for the first people who lived there, mostly hunters. The petroglyphs promise an incredible site.

The locals and visitors have preserved and conserved the area throughout the years. The twenty-minute trail of the Keyhole Sink isn’t so far from Williams, plus it’s moderately easy to walk through.

Location: Kaibab National Forest, Williams Arizona

#7. See Williams’ Depot

Truly, it’s easy to be swept off your feet by the numerous stunning locations Williams has to offer, to forget that Williams Depot deserves a spot on your bucket list of what to do in Williams, Az.

Well, it’s worth noting that Williams Depot is quite stunning, so why not pay a visit and see why it wasn’t such a bad idea after all?

The famous train station offers some insightful peek into the history of this little Arizona town. It’s a significant part of the transcontinental railway that first arrived on these paths in the 18th century.

However, the warehouse now serves as the Grand Canyon Railway’s exit point, providing visitors (passengers) with an unforgettable experience of Williams, Arizona.

If you get lucky, you might find an early sunrise reenactment by ‘cops and robbers’ before the departure of each train. This mock imitation helps set the mood for a tour of the Old West. Stroll around the depot and watch a few old edifices and vintage railway autos. Don’t fail to grab something for lunch at the depot diner.

Location: 233 North, Grand Canyon Boulevard, Williams Arizona

#8. See the Sycamore Canyons

With the Sycamore Canyons, another amazing opportunity and unforgettable hiking experience in Williams, Arizona beckons.

The terrain offers more forest than touristy sights, so hiking a few major foyers seems more rewarding for skilled hikers. It’s interesting to note that the Sycamore Canyon is the second biggest in Arizona State, spanning over twenty-one miles.

If rock climbing and fishing are a thing for you, then Sycamore Canyon is the ideal spot. Explore the wildlife, and hike the trails till you grow hungry. It’s the Sycamore feeling!

If you’re probably wondering what else is there to Sycamore Canyon, aside from the obvious, we are telling you for free that the canyon is packed with all the stunning sceneries, rock formations, and striking colors that adorn the mountaintops.

You could say it’s a deluxe illustration of Arizona’s Red Rocks, but this time in a wild setting. Check out some important trails like Parsons Trail, bordered by the Wilderness Area, and Sycamore Rim Trail, with its equally stunning views on the canyon’s horizon.

You should bring food, water, and sunscreen since Sycamore Canyon is mainly wilderness.

Location: 200 West, Railroad Avenue, Williams Arizona

#9. Valle Travel Stop

It comes naturally to think that the Valle Travel Stop is a normal travel mall until you see some unusual keepsakes, souvenirs and gift items dotting show glasses around the plaza.

Shop local artifacts like paintings, Native American jewelry, vintage posters, southwestern gifts, and heirlooms. You’ll find tons of travelers crawling all over the place in a bid to shop for a thing or two as a keepsake from their trip to Williams, Az.

A thirty-minute drive from Williams will bring you face-to-face with the Valle Travel Stop. The More and Rocks shop at the shopping complex offers unique and fascinating rocks, minerals, antediluvian, and jewelry.

The mesmerizing sight of the 80,000 USD amethyst and a boulder-sized crystal adorning the entrance to the mall is unmistakably remarkable.

Location: 317 South State Route 64, Williams Arizona

#10. Visit the Bill Williams Monument Park

There’s no doubt Williams Az is the gateway to the famous Grand Canyon, playing a crucial role in carving a course west of Arizona. Here’s why you’d need a little ‘schooling’ about the town’s ancestries, and this, you’ll get when you visit the Bill Williams Monument Park.

The park is an important part of local history. You should find a magnificent bronze statue of William Sherley Williams, otherwise known as ‘Old Bill,’ in commemoration of the pioneer who was one of the founding fathers of the small town.

Depending on your interests, it takes a few moments to tour the park. Once inside, check out Bill Williams Mountain for mesmerizing views of the area. You will find pockets of hiking trails and panoramic drives if you look harder.

Location: Sixth Street, Williams Arizona

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#11. The Catwalk

If you’re looking for a unique experience, you must check out the Catwalk in Williams, Arizona. This quarter-mile-long pathway offers spectacular views of the Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks.

You can take a stroll along the trail, take in the fresh mountain air, and be mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the landscape.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try rappelling or rock climbing while you’re here.

Plenty of other activities are available, including bird watching and picnicking. Whatever you choose to do, the Catwalk is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come!

Address: 800 Historic Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046, United States

#12. Red Rock State Park

When you think of Williams, Arizona, the first thing that comes to mind might be Route 66, but there’s so much more to this city than just nostalgia.

Red Rock State Park is one of the most amazing places in Williams and is worth a visit.

This park is home to some of the most beautiful red rocks in the Southwest.

The towering red rock formations make for an incredible backdrop for your photographs. You can take a leisurely hike through the canyon and get up close and personal with nature.

The park also features a variety of wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and even cougars.

Red Rock State Park also offers plenty of activities for the whole family.

You can go horseback riding along the trails or take a guided tour. The park also has a petting zoo, picnic areas, and even a playground for the kids. If you’re looking for a way to spend some quality time together outdoors, Red Rock State Park is the perfect spot.

If you’re looking for something different, Red Rock State Park also offers an astronomy program. You can use high-powered telescopes to look closely at the stars and planets in the night sky.

Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, United States

#13. Williams Historic Downtown District

Williams, Arizona, is a charming and historic town along Historic Route 66. With so much to see and do, it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

From natural wonders to historical sites, Williams has plenty of fun places to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s something for everyone.

When visiting the city of Williams, be sure to stop by the Williams Historic Downtown District. This area is full of local shops and restaurants, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.

It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, enjoy a bite to eat, or take a stroll and take in the history of this charming little town.

There is so much to explore in Williams, Arizona. Whether looking for a relaxing day trip or a full-fledged vacation, you’ll find plenty of things to do here. So get ready to make some memories!

#14. The Verde Canyon Railroad

The Verde Canyon Railroad is one of the most fun places to check out in Williams, Arizona. This historic railroad has provided scenic tours since the late 1800s and is an excellent way to explore the surrounding area.

The train will take you through a lush canyon filled with Native American ruins, majestic red rock formations, and vibrant wildlife. You can also take spectacular views of the Colorado River and the San Francisco Peaks.

On the journey, you will be served a variety of beverages and snacks as you relax and enjoy the scenic views. The Verde Canyon Railroad is a must-see for anyone visiting Williams, Arizona!

Address: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, United States

#15. Red Lake Arizona

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or a bite to eat, check out Red Lake. You’ll find plenty of stores and restaurants that line the streets here.

Red Lake is the perfect spot for fishing, swimming, and hiking. The lake is stocked with various fish species, so you’re sure to catch something if you’re patient enough!

These are just a few great places to explore in Williams, AZ. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a fun day trip, there’s something for everyone here.

So plan your next trip today and experience all Williams has to offer!

Address: 7077 N Red Lake Rd, Williams, AZ

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Here’s a recap……

Every traveler needs some heads-up about what to expect as they plan their trip. And for your trip to Williams, Az, we have compiled, more like, suggested some must-have information of the 10 Things to Do in Williams, Az. By now, you already know that the small town of Williams, Az, is a passageway to the Grand Canyon.

To that end, we suggest you make the most of this article, as it would help offer a sense of what to expect and, most importantly, Things to Do in Williams, Az.

If you prefer being outside, this article is for you, as we have done justice to some of the attractions, sights and Things to Do in Williams, Arizona, today.