Williams, Arizona, is the southern terminus for the Grand Canyon Railway. Boasting itself as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon," Williams is 60 miles from the south rim entrance. This historic railroad town has one golf course, the Elephant Rocks, which is a par-70 designed by Gary Panks. This small town is a popular destination along Route 66 and contains a number of historic hotels and buildings that commemorate the experience.
The Lodge on Route 66
Situated within the heart of Williams, The Lodge on Route 66 offers guests a central location for seeing the area sights by foot. A step away from the average hotel, The Lodge offers an intimate stay with only nine single rooms and nine suites. Boasting tastefully decorated rooms with solid wood furniture, all rooms and suites include pillow top Spring Air mattresses, flat-screen TV with cable and Southwest architectural ceiling detail. Suites can also include kitchenettes with stainless steel refrigerator and microwave, sleeper sofa, fireplace and dining area. Guests can request one of The Lodge's many packages upon reservation. More popular choices include an Elephant Rocks golf package that includes accommodation and a round of golf or Grand Canyon Railroad tours. Additional featured amenities include an expanded continental breakfast served fresh daily and on-site gift shop with Route 66 memorabilia.
The Lodge on Route 66
200 Historic U.S. 66
Williams, AZ 86046-2604
(928) 635-4534
thelodgeonroute66.com
Holiday Inn Williams
Located just off Interstate 40, the Holiday Inn Williams is less than two miles from Elephant Rocks Golf Course. Offering 120 guest rooms and 11 suites, guests have an option between nonsmoking- and smoking-designated rooms. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool and spa, on-site laundry, daily housekeeping and high-speed Internet access. All standard rooms and suites contain a plush king or queen size bed, cable TV, microwave, refrigerator and in-room coffeemaker.
Holiday Inn Williams
950 N. Grand Canyon Blvd.
Williams, AZ 86046
(928) 635-4114
holidayinn.com/h/d/hi/1/en/hotel/wlmgc?&cm_mmc=mdpr-_-googlemaps-_-hi-_-wlmgc&dp=true
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
Just two blocks north of downtown Williams and Route 66, the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel sits among a scenic forest of old growth Ponderosa pine trees. Retaining its original century-old train depot charm, the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel was originally open by the Santa Fe Railroad as a Harvey House. The historical hotel houses 287 comfortable, yet functional guest rooms and 10 spacious suites tastefully decorated in modern Southwestern décor. All rooms include triple sheeting, cable TV and in-room coffeemaker. Travelers make book package specials that include accommodations and train travel, which can be picked up adjacent to the hotel. The property also offers an indoor pool and hot tub. The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel boasts fun for the entire family by offering a kid-friendly game room complete with video games and pinball as well as a professionally designed outdoor playground.
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
233 N. Grand Canyon Blvd.
Williams, AZ 86046
(928) 635-4625
thetrain.com/grand-canyon-railway-hotel-williams-az-5686.html
About The Author
Patricia Poulin is a freelance writer based out of the western slope of Colorado. Poulin's travels and insight have chronicled in print media resources, such as "Inside Outside" and "Breathe" magazine. She is also a regular contributor for other various publications including "USA Today." Poulin holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
