Grand Canyon Stopover
We were pleasantly pleased with our time spent sipping, strolling, shopping, snacking, and lodging in downtown Williams, Arizona for a day before heading to the South Rim for our camping and hiking adventures. This western downtown offers a little bit of everything to welcome its visitors and make them feel right at home, including unique, nostalgic gift shops and museums, eateries, saloons, street shoot-out re-enactments, live music, and plentiful accommodations.
Historic Route 66
Williams, Arizona is a charming, small mountain town nestled in the heart of the Kaibab National Forest along the nostalgic Route 66. Williams is best known as “The Gateway to the Grand Canyon” because of its proximity to The South Rim of the Grand Canyon – about an hour’s drive. It also houses the historic Grand Canyon Railway, which whisks passengers daily from Williams to The Grand Canyon in epic style!
Downtown Williams, Arizona in a Day!
Here’s a look at what we experienced on our 24-visit to downtown Williams, Arizona!
Where We Dined
Station 66 Italian Bistro
Casual indoor/outdoor eatery where you order at the counter and they bring the food to your table. The wood-fired pizza is amazing!
Anna’s Grand Canyon Cafe
Anna’s cafe located in a historic building across the street from The Grand Canyon Railway is a great place to start your day! This quaint breakfast/lunch eatery, specializing in American and Mexican cuisines, serves breakfast all day. Yay! The coffee was nice and bold, just how we liked it! This place is popular, so there might be a short wait, but surely worth it!
Red Raven Restaurant
Upscale eclectic dining experience in a cozy, relaxed environment. Outstanding food, wine list, service, and ambiance… all at reasonable prices, made this restaurant a standout…and our favorite! Red Raven will always be our stop to delight in delicious bites before heading to the South Rim. Reservations recommended.
What We Saw
Pete’s Gas Station Museum
Gift shops
Specializing in local and nostalgic Route 66 fares, lots of vintage cars that looked like they came from the movie, “Cars,” western wear clothing stores, a grocery store, and an array of unique restaurants and bars.
Where We Went for Happy Hour
Canyon Club
Really cool dive bar in the middle of downtown Williams, where all the action is! Outstanding bartender, happy hour, karaoke night, pool, darts, shuffleboard, outdoor seating, and more! Great drinks!
The Long Horn Saloon
This little dive bar and restaurant are just up the road (a short walk) from the central part of downtown near some of the hotels. This was a happening spot with a good mix of locals and tourists. They offer daily food specials and great drink prices!
