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Arizona

Grand Canyon Star Party: Astronomy at the Edge of the Universe

Program No. 1615760MEADV-1116-60
Turn down the lights and get ready to party! At the Grand Canyon Star Party, you’ll meet astronomers, have access to more than 40 high-powered telescopes and explore Meteor Crater.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Jun 18 - Jun 23, 2025
Starting at
1,749
Jun 24 - Jun 29, 2025
Starting at
1,749
Jun 3 - Jun 8, 2026
Starting at
1,899
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Jun 18 - Jun 23, 2025
Starting at
2,229
Jun 24 - Jun 29, 2025
Starting at
2,229
Jun 3 - Jun 8, 2026
Starting at
2,469
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Glance down and you will see some of the oldest exposed rocks from our planet. Glance up and you will behold the origin of our universe. Welcome to the Grand Canyon Star Party! Enjoy two nights of sky watching at one of Arizona's greatest astronomical events of the year as more than 40 telescopes are pointed at the skies above to behold the wonders of clear June skies.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one mile over varied terrain. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • In Flagstaff, a center for astronomical study since the late 1800s, meet astronomers and discuss planetary geology, the origin of the universe, NASA projects and other current topics.
  • Visit Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, and Meteor Crater, the world's best-preserved meteorite impact site, that was used as a training ground for the Apollo astronauts.
  • At the Grand Canyon, learn about the geology of this world wonder and national treasure while enjoying walks to its most spectacular viewpoints.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Bryan Bates
Bryan Bates is an ex-officio member of the governing board for the International Society for Archaeoastronomy and Astronomy in Culture. Under a NASA grant, he created a course manual for archaeoastronomy and published research on a solar calendar at Wupatki and an equinox site near Stoneman Lake. He is involved in a research project on archaeoastronomy at Mesa Verde National Park and teaches archaeoastronomy, as well as biology, environmental science, natural history and chemistry.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Bryan Bates
Bryan Bates View biography
Bryan Bates is an ex-officio member of the governing board for the International Society for Archaeoastronomy and Astronomy in Culture. Under a NASA grant, he created a course manual for archaeoastronomy and published research on a solar calendar at Wupatki and an equinox site near Stoneman Lake. He is involved in a research project on archaeoastronomy at Mesa Verde National Park and teaches archaeoastronomy, as well as biology, environmental science, natural history and chemistry.
Profile Image of David Cole
David Cole View biography
David Cole has been on faculty at Northern Arizona University since 1996 and is a past recipient of the LOUIE Award for outstanding professor. Formerly assistant director of the NASA Space Grant on campus, he left that post to assume a Principal lecturer position that allows him to focus more on teaching physics and astronomy. He has three children, but none of them has expressed an interest to be an astronaut — yet.
Profile Image of Greg Webb
Greg Webb View biography
Greg Webb has been a public educator and program manager for the last 20 years. In his academic career, he acquired degrees in geography, sociology, and a master’s in "Sustainable Communities". He has held positions as a National Park Ranger at Sequoia National Park as well as Montezuma Castle National Monument. Currently, Greg is working as an exploration leader primarily in Grand Canyon and is excited to be part of the Road Scholar program.
Profile Image of Christopher Eaves
Christopher Eaves View biography
Christopher Eaves has called the Southwest home for the past two decades, exploring the wild lands and rivers of the region. After teaching middle school math and science for 15 years, he joined Road Scholar to continue his ongoing passion for promoting learning. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Western University of Colorado and a master’s in Education from Northern Arizona University. Chris's hobbies include mountain biking, hiking, and traveling the globe with his spouse and children.
Profile Image of Joel Kane
Joel Kane View biography
Joel Kane grew up roaming Appalachian Pennsylvania but has called the Southwest home for years. After serving in the Navy, he earned a bachelor's degree in geology from the University of California/Los Angeles. He later worked as an interpretive park ranger for the National Park Service at Fossil Butte National Monument in Wyoming, Zion National Park in Utah, Oregon Caves National Monument in Oregon, and the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. He is pursuing his master's degree in geology at Northern Arizona University/Flagstaff.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Flagstaff, AZ
Program Concludes
Flagstaff, AZ
Meals
13 | 5B | 3L | 5D |
Activity Level
Glance down and you will see some of the oldest exposed rocks from our planet. Glance up and you will behold the origin of our universe. Welcome to the Grand Canyon Star Party! Enjoy two nights of sky watching at one of Arizona's greatest astronomical events of the year as more than 40 telescopes are pointed at the skies above to behold the wonders of clear June skies.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • In Flagstaff, a center for astronomical study since the late 1800s, meet astronomers and discuss planetary geology, the origin of the universe, NASA projects and other current topics.
  • Visit Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, and Meteor Crater, the world's best-preserved meteorite impact site, that was used as a training ground for the Apollo astronauts.
  • At the Grand Canyon, learn about the geology of this world wonder and national treasure while enjoying walks to its most spectacular viewpoints.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Bryan Bates
Bryan Bates is an ex-officio member of the governing board for the International Society for Archaeoastronomy and Astronomy in Culture. Under a NASA grant, he created a course manual for archaeoastronomy and published research on a solar calendar at Wupatki and an equinox site near Stoneman Lake. He is involved in a research project on archaeoastronomy at Mesa Verde National Park and teaches archaeoastronomy, as well as biology, environmental science, natural history and chemistry.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of David Cole
David Cole
David Cole has been on faculty at Northern Arizona University since 1996 and is a past recipient of the LOUIE Award for outstanding professor. Formerly assistant director of the NASA Space Grant on campus, he left that post to assume a Principal lecturer position that allows him to focus more on teaching physics and astronomy. He has three children, but none of them has expressed an interest to be an astronaut — yet.
Profile Image of Greg Webb
Greg Webb
Greg Webb has been a public educator and program manager for the last 20 years. In his academic career, he acquired degrees in geography, sociology, and a master’s in "Sustainable Communities". He has held positions as a National Park Ranger at Sequoia National Park as well as Montezuma Castle National Monument. Currently, Greg is working as an exploration leader primarily in Grand Canyon and is excited to be part of the Road Scholar program.
Profile Image of Christopher Eaves
Christopher Eaves
Christopher Eaves has called the Southwest home for the past two decades, exploring the wild lands and rivers of the region. After teaching middle school math and science for 15 years, he joined Road Scholar to continue his ongoing passion for promoting learning. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Western University of Colorado and a master’s in Education from Northern Arizona University. Chris's hobbies include mountain biking, hiking, and traveling the globe with his spouse and children.
Profile Image of Joel Kane
Joel Kane
Joel Kane grew up roaming Appalachian Pennsylvania but has called the Southwest home for years. After serving in the Navy, he earned a bachelor's degree in geology from the University of California/Los Angeles. He later worked as an interpretive park ranger for the National Park Service at Fossil Butte National Monument in Wyoming, Zion National Park in Utah, Oregon Caves National Monument in Oregon, and the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. He is pursuing his master's degree in geology at Northern Arizona University/Flagstaff.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one mile over varied terrain. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (8 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
13 meals | 5B | 3L | 5D |
6 expert-led lectures
7 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m. Walking less than 1/2 mile roundtrip to dinner. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 5:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines throughout the program. All field trips will be led by our Group Leaders, seasoned and experienced naturalists, unless specified otherwise. All classroom discussions will be led by experts in their fields. Transportation will be in either vans or a motorcoach, depending on group size. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
We will walk to a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Walking approximately 1 mile throughout the day during group activities; periods of standing; mostly flat, paved sidewalks; elevation gain of about 100 feet. An additional elective walk of just over 1/2 mile will be available for those interested. Getting in/out of a motorcoach or van (dependent on group size); short drives within Flagstaff totaling approximately 8 miles for the day; about 1/2 hours, with stops for activities.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After shuttling or walking to our classroom at Northern Arizona University, our morning presenter will give a talk about our place in the universe. This lecture will provide an overview of the universe from its origins – Big Bang Theory – to how stars are born, the creation of our solar system, and current discoveries/thoughts on subjects such as dark matter, string theory, and more. We’ll then take a short walk to our lunch location.
Lunch:
At the university dining facility on the south campus.
Afternoon:
Returning to the classroom on campus, we’ll settle in for a discussion with a university professor on humans in space, NASA, and the International Space Station. Afterwards, enjoy some free time at the hotel and rest up for stargazing this evening at Lowell Observatory.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
Boarding our vehicles, we’ll then travel to Lowell Observatory for a walking history field trip led by a Lowell Observatory docent, during which we will see the 24-inch Clark Telescope that Percival Lowell used to study Mars, the Pluto Discovery Scope, the Rotunda, and the Exhibit Hall. Founded in 1894 by astronomer Percival Lowell, the observatory is one of the earliest built in the U.S.A. As such, and due to its reputation for firsts including, according to the Lowell Observatory’s website, “the first detection of the expanding nature of the universe, the discovery of Pluto, moon mapping for the Apollo program to the moon, the rings of Uranus…” – it holds a special place in both American and global history. The innovations have not ceased, however, evidenced by the impressive 4.3-meter Discovery Channel Telescope, which has been fully functioning since 2015.
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a motorcoach or van (dependent on group size); driving approximately 45 miles one way to Meteor Crater, approximately 1.5 hours riding time roundtrip. Walking about 1 mile along crater rim, approximately 1 hour; paved, slightly rolling trail.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll begin the day with a field trip to Meteor Crater, which is lauded as the first proven and best preserved meteor impact site on Earth. We’ll go on an expert-led walk along a portion of the crater’s 2.4-mile circumference, and view the crater from the accessible platform. At the onsite museum, we’ll also have opportunities to visualize the impact event through numerous interactive exhibits, a film recreation in the theater, and a display featuring the largest chunk found of the 150-foot meteor, which weighed several hundred thousand tons. Afterwards, we’ll return to Flagstaff in time for lunch.
Lunch:
At the university’s south campus dining facility.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we’ll enjoy two presentations in our campus classroom by an astronomer. The first will be a discussion on objects visible in this week’s night sky. After a short break, we’ll settle in for another presentation, this time focused on amateur telescopes and astronomy.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
Enjoy an evening on your own to relax and pack for check out the next morning.
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a motorcoach or van (dependent on group size); driving about 110 miles to Grand Canyon; approximately 2.5 hours riding time with a stop along the way. Walking about 2 miles total throughout the day; several short walks at Grand Canyon viewpoints; walking and standing dependent on personal preference in the flat, paved parking lot/telescope viewing area at Mather Point after dark, some curbs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Following check-out, we will board our vehicle and begin our journey to the Grand Canyon. En route, we’ll make our first stop at Wupatki National Monument. One of the most scenic ancestral puebloan sites in Northern Arizona. Next we'll stop for some time to stretch our legs and explore independently at the old Cameron Trading Post, set on the edge of the seasonally dry Little Colorado River at the western edge of the Navajo Reservation. A welcomed rest stop, the trading post features a beautiful hidden garden, an in-house Navajo rug weaver, and interesting stone architecture drawing from the various influences of the region.
Lunch:
In the Cameron Trading Post dining room.
Afternoon:
Our next stop will be at the Desert View Overlook, the location of Mary Jane Colter’s famous Watchtower and some of the best views of the Colorado River. We will have time to explore the watchtower with our naturalist available to answer any questions. Known for her many works for the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad, Mary Jane Coulter was a female architect in the early 20th century and helped blend Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival architecture with Native American motifs. The Watchtower is an interpretation of a prehistoric “tower kiva” with lavishly painted interior walls by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie. Back aboard the vehicle, we’ll then follow the eastern expanse of the South Rim enjoying occasional views of the Canyon. Late in the afternoon, we’ll check in to our lodge on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Dinner:
In the lodge café.
Evening:
After dinner will be the first of our two nights of the Grand Canyon Star Party, which is cosponsored by Grand Canyon National Park and the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA). To begin, you may choose to attend an astronomy presentation given by an expert in the visitor center auditorium. Alternatively, you may wish to go with our Group Leader on a walk to the rim of the Grand Canyon to watch the sun set. Once it is dark, we’ll stroll to the unlit parking lot of Mather Point on the South Rim where members of the TAAA and friends have set up 40-50 personal telescopes pointed at the skies above. Standing next to each telescope will be an amateur astronomer who is more than willing to share his/her passion. With the limited light pollution of the Grand Canyon, you will see more than you can imagine! You may also choose to attend one of several sessions where an astronomer uses a green laser to point out constellations to observers under revolving stars. Once you’ve had enough of the night sky, our Group Leader will be happy to shuttle you back to your room.
Activity Note
Walking for about 2 miles during group activities, approximately 4 hours with opportunities to rest. Walking about 1 mile at Grand Canyon Village, approximately 2 hours; paved, slightly sloping trail; elevation of approximately 7,000 feet with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain; walking and periods of standing up to 2 hours according to personal interest at Star Party.
Breakfast:
At the Yavapai Lodge.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will go on a walking field trip in Grand Canyon Village where our Group Leader will tell us about the history of each location. Grand Canyon Village includes Verkamps Visitor Center, the El Tovar Hotel, Mary Jane Colter's Hopi House, rock walls and trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Bright Angel Lodge with its famous geological fireplace, and Kolb Studio.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. This time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You might like to explore the Grand Canyon’s famous South Rim, ride the free Hermit’s Rest Route (Red Line Shuttle), take extended walks along the rim, attend ranger programs, or return for longer visits at any of the historic structures seen on the history walk.
Dinner:
In the lodge café.
Evening:
Once again, everyone will be invited to choose between a walk to the rim of the Grand Canyon with our Group Leader to watch the sunset, or to attend an astronomy presentation given by an expert at the visitor center. Afterwards, we’ll make our way back to the Mather Point parking lot to enjoy looking through the variety of available telescopes, meet other astronomy enthusiasts, and gaze up at the brilliance of the Grand Canyon’s night sky. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 8:00 a.m. Getting in/out of a motorcoach or van (dependent on group size); driving approximately 90 miles to Flagstaff; about 1.5 hours riding time. Expected arrival in Flagstaff at starting hotel by approximately 10:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After loading our luggage, we’ll gather for a brief program wrap-up session, then set out from the hotel for travel back to the program’s starting hotel in Flagstaff. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
13 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Jun 24, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
  • Jun 24, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
  • Jun 18, 2025 - Jun 23, 2025
  • Jun 24, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
  • Jun 03, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
  • Jun 09, 2026 - Jun 14, 2026
3 nights
Location: Flagstaff
La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff is proud to show off its newly designed communal spaces and guest rooms to travelers passing through. Our new renovations include thoughtful updates and additions with our guest’s needs in mind. From a refreshed lobby with a welcoming "great-room" vibe to new touches and colors in every room, you’ll find a lot to enjoy at our hotel. Staying with us has never been as fun and convenient. Take advantage of all the new amenities and the designs meant to please every taste. Even if we look different, you will still always enjoy a free Bright Side Breakfast® every morning after a comfortable night in our expansive rooms and suites, which are equipped with lots of useful amenities including free high-speed Internet access and coffeemakers (select rooms also have a refrigerator and microwave). Stroll through the sprawling courtyard to a romantic gazebo; relax in the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
2 nights
Location: Grand Canyon
At Yavapai Lodge®, natural beauty meets the magic of convenience. Set within the incredible scenery of the park, this Grand Canyon hotel occupies a prime location in the canyon. It's about a one-mile walk from the canyon's South Rim and steps from the general store, bank and post office. Of course, it's more than just the perfect place to start your adventure. Its newly-remodeled main lodge makes it a great place to relax and recharge, thanks to cozy seating areas and an outdoor patio. The park’s free shuttle-bus service has a stop directly in front of the lodge that provides access to park viewpoints, Grand Canyon Village and Visitor Center. Rooms in Yavapai West are located in 10, single-story Mid-Century Modern buildings from the heyday of Route 66. These rooms are built on a single story, and contain a ceiling fan to help keep you cool.
3 nights
Location: Flagstaff
La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff is proud to show off its newly designed communal spaces and guest rooms to travelers passing through. Our new renovations include thoughtful updates and additions with our guest’s needs in mind. From a refreshed lobby with a welcoming "great-room" vibe to new touches and colors in every room, you’ll find a lot to enjoy at our hotel. Staying with us has never been as fun and convenient. Take advantage of all the new amenities and the designs meant to please every taste. Even if we look different, you will still always enjoy a free Bright Side Breakfast® every morning after a comfortable night in our expansive rooms and suites, which are equipped with lots of useful amenities including free high-speed Internet access and coffeemakers (select rooms also have a refrigerator and microwave). Stroll through the sprawling courtyard to a romantic gazebo; relax in the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
2 nights
Location: Grand Canyon
At Yavapai Lodge®, natural beauty meets the magic of convenience. Set within the incredible scenery of the park, this Grand Canyon hotel occupies a prime location in the canyon. It's about a one-mile walk from the canyon's South Rim and steps from the general store, bank and post office. Of course, it's more than just the perfect place to start your adventure. Its newly-remodeled main lodge makes it a great place to relax and recharge, thanks to cozy seating areas and an outdoor patio. The park’s free shuttle-bus service has a stop directly in front of the lodge that provides access to park viewpoints, Grand Canyon Village and Visitor Center. Rooms in Yavapai West are located in 10, single-story Mid-Century Modern buildings from the heyday of Route 66. These rooms are built on a single story, and contain a ceiling fan to help keep you cool.
3 nights
Location: Flagstaff
La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff is proud to show off its newly designed communal spaces and guest rooms to travelers passing through. Our new renovations include thoughtful updates and additions with our guest’s needs in mind. From a refreshed lobby with a welcoming "great-room" vibe to new touches and colors in every room, you’ll find a lot to enjoy at our hotel. Staying with us has never been as fun and convenient. Take advantage of all the new amenities and the designs meant to please every taste. Even if we look different, you will still always enjoy a free Bright Side Breakfast® every morning after a comfortable night in our expansive rooms and suites, which are equipped with lots of useful amenities including free high-speed Internet access and coffeemakers (select rooms also have a refrigerator and microwave). Stroll through the sprawling courtyard to a romantic gazebo; relax in the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
2 nights
Location: Grand Canyon
At Yavapai Lodge®, natural beauty meets the magic of convenience. Set within the incredible scenery of the park, this Grand Canyon hotel occupies a prime location in the canyon. It's about a one-mile walk from the canyon's South Rim and steps from the general store, bank and post office. Of course, it's more than just the perfect place to start your adventure. Its newly-remodeled main lodge makes it a great place to relax and recharge, thanks to cozy seating areas and an outdoor patio. The park’s free shuttle-bus service has a stop directly in front of the lodge that provides access to park viewpoints, Grand Canyon Village and Visitor Center. Rooms in Yavapai West are located in 10, single-story Mid-Century Modern buildings from the heyday of Route 66. These rooms are built on a single story, and contain a ceiling fan to help keep you cool.
3 nights
Location: Flagstaff
La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff is proud to show off its newly designed communal spaces and guest rooms to travelers passing through. Our new renovations include thoughtful updates and additions with our guest’s needs in mind. From a refreshed lobby with a welcoming "great-room" vibe to new touches and colors in every room, you’ll find a lot to enjoy at our hotel. Staying with us has never been as fun and convenient. Take advantage of all the new amenities and the designs meant to please every taste. Even if we look different, you will still always enjoy a free Bright Side Breakfast® every morning after a comfortable night in our expansive rooms and suites, which are equipped with lots of useful amenities including free high-speed Internet access and coffeemakers (select rooms also have a refrigerator and microwave). Stroll through the sprawling courtyard to a romantic gazebo; relax in the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
2 nights
Location: Grand Canyon
At Yavapai Lodge®, natural beauty meets the magic of convenience. Set within the incredible scenery of the park, this Grand Canyon hotel occupies a prime location in the canyon. It's about a one-mile walk from the canyon's South Rim and steps from the general store, bank and post office. Of course, it's more than just the perfect place to start your adventure. Its newly-remodeled main lodge makes it a great place to relax and recharge, thanks to cozy seating areas and an outdoor patio. The park’s free shuttle-bus service has a stop directly in front of the lodge that provides access to park viewpoints, Grand Canyon Village and Visitor Center. Rooms in Yavapai West are located in 10, single-story Mid-Century Modern buildings from the heyday of Route 66. These rooms are built on a single story, and contain a ceiling fan to help keep you cool.
Participant Reviews
4.25
Based on 4 Reviews
Sort By:
May – Class of 2017 | Little Silver, NJ
I enjoy star gazing and learning about astronomy at a amateur level. my husband alittle more. has his own telescope and this program was enjoyable and educational for both of us. the field trips were the highlight for us. we don’t have dark skies in New Jersey.
— Review left June 22, 2023
Christine – Class of 2013 | San Diego, CA
Great experience BUT don’t expect any decent food. Bring your own
— Review left June 29, 2022
Jacquelyn – Class of 2019 | Minneapolis, MN
GC: majesty, history, beauty - it's all there. Be aware that in the summer, it is VERY hot. Try to spend time just looking at all hours of the day. Lots of good lectures; consider bring a recording device and/or taking pictures of the various display screens. Consider a day or so before and/or after to explore GC and maybe Flagstaff on your own.
— Review left July 2, 2019
Beth – Class of 2016 | Middleton, WI
The star party was a blast. Amateur astronomers let us view distant stars, planets, nebulae, and distant galaxies through their telescopes of all sizes and descripitons. They were only too happy to share their expertise. The Grand Canyon was the perfect venue. I also learned about using red lights instead of the usual yellow or white. Dr. Dave gave us great info, including the skinny on NASA. Jeff managed to keep us hrerded. No one was left behind. I highly recommend this program.
— Review left June 30, 2019





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