The National Park Service turns 100 on August 25, 2016 and is celebrating the centennial in true fashion – by not just celebrating the past but about looking toward the future of America’s parks and communities.

As part of the Centennial, you have the opportunity to soak in the fun and natural beauty that can be found in all of the country’s 407 national parks, including Grand Canyon National Park.

Getting to know Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is the 15th oldest national park. Its central feature is, of course, the Grand Canyon, a gorge of the Colorado River that is often considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Beyond the gorge itself, however, the park encompasses a staggering 1,217,262 acres of unincorporated areas, setting up the idyllic backdrop for any romantic or family getaway.

Grand Canyon vacations for families and romantic getaways

Thinking about taking your family to the Grand Canyon for an upcoming vacation? That’s a pretty good idea. Just consider this – the Grand Canyon is one-mile-deep, 277 miles long, can be seen from space, and is home to a small community of California condors (one of the rarest birds in the world). What child wouldn’t be awestruck by all of that?

Of course, chances are, any adult would be impressed with all that the Grand Canyon offers, which is why it’s the perfect vacation spot for both families and couples.

The Grand Canyon also offers plenty of adventurous opportunities for people of all ages, including:

• Train rides between Williams and the South Rim. Kids happen to also love the Grand Canyon Railway’s Christmastime Polar Express…in case you’re booking your trip for the holidays.
• Mule rides – A mule ride into the Grand Canyon will be one of the most memorable adventures of your life.  Children as young as seven can participate in one-hour rides, while kids 10 and older can participate in half-day trips.
• Explore on foot – Couples love this option, as do families (if their children are up to the challenge). In fact, you can take part in a guided hike with the Grand Canyon Field Institute on the South Rim. The hike will include geology and history lessons along the way.
• Cycle the Canyon – Another option is to pedal all of the park’s roads. You can rent a bike for as little as an hour or for a full day from places such as Bright Angel Bicycles and Café at Mather Point on the South Rim. Rentals are available for anyone 8 or older. Bicycle trailers are also made available for younger children.

Don’t forget to hover above the rim

The Grand Canyon Skywalk has become a huge part of the total Grand Canyon experience, despite this glass-bottomed, U-shaped observation deck only opening in 2007. Ideal for both couples and families, the Skywalk juts out 70-feet over the canyon’s West Rim (which drops 4,000 feet straight down to the Colorado River).

While on the West Rim, you might as well enjoy the sunset with a one-hour ride on a horse-drawn wagon that ends around a campfire.

With so much to do at the Grand Canyon, where can you stay?

It is impossible to take in all that the Grand Canyon has to offer in just one day, which is why it’s vital that you find a place to stay that offers you the comfort and amenities needed to ensure your experience is everything you hope it to be.

That, of course, includes ensuring that your chosen hotel or resort is located close enough to the park.

We’ve chosen three locations we feel will help create the perfect Grand Canyon experience for you:

The Phoenician – Scottsdale (Arizona)

The Phoenician is located at the base of Camelback Mountain, in Scottsdale, AZ and offers a plethora of adventure and entertainment opportunities, including:

• 27-hole championship golf course
• Spa treatments
• Award-winning dining
• Tennis Garden
• 8 sparkling swimming pools
• Day trips to the Grand Canyon
• Tours of the Red Rocks of Sedona

All Virtuoso guests will also enjoy:

• Room view update on arrival (subject to availability)
• Daily full breakfast for up to two in-room guests
• $100 food and beverage credit
• Early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability)

 Enchantment Resort and Mii Amo Spa – Sedona (Arizona)

Enchantment is nestled right inside Sedona’s red rock canyon, and combines rugged luxury with Native American culture. The resort’s accommodations are in casitas, each with a private deck. The centrally located clubhouse offers panoramic views and plenty of opportunities for stargazing while Mii amo is considered one of the world’s best destination spas. Each week guests will have the chance to go hiking, mountain biking, swimming and more. Resort guests also enjoy exclusive access to championship golf at Seven Canyons.

All Virtuoso guests will also enjoy:

• Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
• Continental breakfast daily, for up to two in-room guests
• $100 credit towards spa services or Seven Canyons Golf
• Early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability)

Amangiri – Canyon Point (Utah)

Set in Utah’s stunning canyon country, Amangiri (peaceful mountain) incorporates the beauty of the Four Corners desert. The central Pavilion is built around a dramatic swimming pool and houses the Living Room, Gallery, Library, and Dining Room/Cellar. Amangiri features 34 suites, entered via a private courtyard, and offers private plunge pools and rooftop terraces. Some experiences that you shouldn’t miss out on include the Aman Spa, water pavilion, Pilates Studio, candlelit rooms and outdoor treatment terraces.

All Virtuoso guests will also enjoy:

• Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
• Continental breakfast daily, for up to two in-room guests
• 30 minutes’ massage for up to two guests
• Early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability)

Experience Grand Canyon like few others

A visit to Grand Canyon National Park always promises to be an unforgettable experience. However, combine the park’s natural wonders with the added excitement of the National Park Service’s centennial, and you can be sure that this year’s visit to Grand Canyon will be even more special.

At Travel With Stephanie, we can make your trip comfortable and memorable by helping you choose not only the best place to stay, but by creating a complete vacation experience for you. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, we’ll help you experience the Grand Canyon like few others have before.

Contact us today to learn more.