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Things to Do Near Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting Northern Arizona puts you in the heart of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, with the iconic Grand Canyon standing as the ultimate showstopper. But the magic of the region goes far beyond a single sight. From winding desert trails to shimmering rivers, there are countless experiences and attractions near the Grand Canyon just waiting to be discovered. If you're planning a romantic getaway or family trip to the area, this 5-day itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable route.

How to Spend 5 Days Near the Grand Canyon

Day 1: Grand Canyon National Park

Start your adventure at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, where the views feel almost unreal. Watch the sunrise paint the canyon gold at Mather Point or take in sweeping vistas from the Desert View Watchtower1. Walk or bike the Rim Trail for a slower, more intimate look at panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Traveling couples can sneak away to a quiet overlook for a picnic with a view, while families will love exploring the Yavapai Geology Museum, where kids can learn how the canyon was formed and discover millions of years of history in one place2.

Before leaving the park, stop at Cameron Trading Post, a historic detour full of character where you can browse Native American crafts, local art, and hearty local dishes, like frybread. Remember to snap a few fun photos with the colorful storefronts and desert backdrop. Finally, stay overnight in Tusayan, just outside the South Rim entrance, for an easy start to the next day's adventures.

Day 2: Page

In the morning, leave the Grand Canyon behind and cruise east along Highway 64, where the desert seems to stretch forever. Continue to Page, AZ, your home base for a day packed with red-rock views and water-side adventure.

Once there, start with Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River curves in a perfect emerald loop 1,000 feet below, a jaw-dropping sight at sunrise or sunset when the cliffs glow gold and crimson. Later, join a guided tour through Antelope Canyon to step into a world of swirling sandstone and shifting light that feels more like art than stone. This is one of the most photogenic things to do near the Grand Canyon3.

Day 3: Lake Powell

Start your day surrounded by the surreal beauty of Page, where glowing sandstone canyons meet shimmering blue water. Spend the morning on or near the water at Lake Powell, a surreal landscape where red cliffs meet bright blue waves. Rent a kayak or a paddleboard at Wahweap Marina, take a scenic boat tour through Antelope Canyon, or find a sandy cove to swim and relax. Couples can catch the sunset from the deck of a boat, while families will love a beach picnic or an easy swim along the shore.

If you like a quick hike, don't miss Hanging Garden Trail, a lush pocket of green tucked into the desert rock above Glen Canyon Dam. Both kids and adults will love spotting the unique plants and wildlife along the trail4. After a day of sun and water, enjoy a relaxed dinner in Page before driving north toward Kanab, UT, for a well-earned night's rest.

Day 4: Kanab

Wake up in Kanab, the cinematic desert town once dubbed “Little Hollywood” for its role in Western classics. Start your morning with a short drive to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where rippling red sands shift with the wind and sunlight. Rent sleds for a thrill, wander the dunes barefoot, or just soak in the desert silence stretching endlessly around you. Families can spend hours here exploring, while couples might bring a picnic to enjoy against the peaceful backdrop.

One of the top attractions near the Grand Canyon for animal lovers is the Best Friends Animal Society. This is the nation's largest sanctuary for homeless animals and a heartwarming refuge where you can meet adorable rescues and tour the peaceful grounds. As the sun dips low, head back to Kanab's main street for dinner and a cozy night under the glowing desert stars5.

Day 5: Zion National Park

Finish your journey in Zion National Park, less than 90 minutes from Kanab. Families will love the popular Narrows and Emerald Pools trails, while couples can hike the more private Chinle Trail for sweeping romantic views. Check in for your last night in Springdale, where boutique hotels and cozy cafes set the stage for your final adventure6.

For the perfect finale to your Southwest escape, head to Zion Canyon Hot Springs in nearby La Verkin. After days of hiking and exploring, you'll love to unwind in mineral-rich pools surrounded by desert cliffs and warm air along the Virgin River. Couples can sink into the water at sunset, watching the sky fade to pink and gold. Families can relax together in the calm, natural pools for a serene pause before the journey home.

Whether you're hiking trails solo, sneaking off on a romantic escape, or exploring with the whole crew, Zion Canyon Hot Springs gives you the chance to soak in the magic of the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona. Book your visit today to secure your spot and treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind experience.

Sources:

Southwest Media Communications. Grand Canyon Top Attractions. Grand Canyon. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.grandcanyon.net/attractions

U.S. Department of the Interior. (July 29, 2025). Yavapai Museum of Geology. National Parks Service. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/yavapai-geo.htm

Rivers & Oceans. Top Attractions Near Grand Canyon. Rivers & Oceans Adventure Travel Experts. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.riversandoceans.com/top-attractions-near-grand-canyon/

U.S. Department of the Interior. (February 12, 2025). Day Hikes. National Parks Service. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit/day-hikes.htm

Utah Office of Tourism. Kanab. Utah: Life Elevated. Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/cities-and-towns/kanab

Utah Office of Tourism. Zion National Park. Utah: Life Elevated. Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/zion

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Approximately half an hour from Zion National Park in La Verkin, you’ll find Zion Canyon Hot Springs is the ideal spot for pampering and relaxation. Boasting 32 natural geothermal hot springs with water pulled and treated from the natural hot springs of the Virgin River, 16 globally-inspired mineral soaking pools, each inspired by legendary destinations—like Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and the Dead Sea—cold plunges, barrel saunas, delectable food and drinks served poolside, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is a stellar reward at the end of the trail. We have both family-friendly and 21+ areas, so whether you’re traveling with friends or little ones, our water-rich oasis has everything you need to ease your aches and pains so you can return home not only inspired by all you’ve seen in this unforgettable part of the country, but also well-rested and rejuvenated in both body and mind. Book in minutes. Soak for hours. Sources: (10 December 2021). The Perfect 72 Hours Near Bryce Canyon National Park. Under Canvas. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.undercanvas.com/blog/72-hours-near-bryce-canyon-national-park/ (9 September 2022). 11 Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The Wildlife Diaries. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.thewildlifediaries.com/things-to-do-near-bryce-canyon/ Bauer, A. Fun Family Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon (Plus the Best Place to Stay!). Zion Adventure Photog. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.zionadventurephotog.com/single-post/things-to-do-near-bryce-canyon Ockey, N. (22 April 2023). Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon. Utah’s Adventure Family. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.utahsadventurefamily.com/things-to-do-near-bryce-along-scenic-highway-12/ Parks and Other Tourist Attraction Spots near Bryce Canyon. Bryce Canyon. Retrieved September 16, 2025, from https://www.brycecanyon.net/parks-tourist-attraction-spots-near-bryce-canyon/