“Travelers returning from concerts, plays, sporting events or who prefer earlier and later departures can take advantage of these lower rates,” said a spokesperson for Amtrak.

The inexpensive tickets are available on select trains for departures between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. Travelers can find the $5 fares on journeys between Washington, D.C. and New York City and New York City and Boston. 

Four bags (two personal items and two suitcases) are included in the fare. 

The discounted tickets are subject to availability, so book early to have the best chance of finding one.

Sample Night Owl Fares

One-way coach class fares are priced starting at:

• Philadelphia – Baltimore/BWI: $5
• New York – Newark/Newark Liberty: $5
• Washington – Baltimore/BWI: $5
• Boston – Providence: $5
• New York – Philadelphia: $10
• Philadelphia – Washington: $10
• Providence – New Haven: $10
• Boston – New Haven: $15
• New York – Baltimore/BWI: $15
• Washington – Newark/Newark Liberty: $15
• New York – Washington: $20
• Boston – New York: $20

The post Amtrak Just Added More $5 Fares—Here’s How to Snag One appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Central Tokyo: Chūō, Chiyoda, Minato, Shinjuku, and Toshima 

Visitors who stay near Tokyo’s city center are within walking distance or a subway ride away from many, if not all, of the main attractions. With incredible views of the city center’s historical sites and easily navigable neighborhoods, these five cities are the perfect places for first-time tourists who want to stay in the heart of Tokyo. 

Mandarin Oriental

This hotel’s top-tier location in the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower puts guests right in the center of Tokyo’s historical district. The Mandarin Oriental’s expansive rooms feature sweeping views of the city skyline alongside the best of Japanese interior design. Enjoy dinner at one of the hotel’s ten restaurants and bars to have your pick of pizza, tapas, sushi, and more. You can also head to the hotel’s award-winning spa and have a 24k gold age-defying facial or take a yoga or pilates class. 

The Mandarin Oriental offers both in-house amenities and offsite activities, including guided tours and activities for guests to explore the neighborhood and the city at large. Simply speak with the concierge to schedule a foodie tour through Tsukiji and Asakusa, attend a tasting at a sake brewery, or see Geisha and Kabuki performances.  

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Aman Tokyo 

If you’re a sushi lover, stay at Aman Tokyo and head to their restaurant Musashi to try their omakase sushi, prepared in the Edomae fashion. Located in the financial district, this opulent hotel in the Otemachi Tower has guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing views of the Imperial Palace Gardens and Mount Fuji. 

Guests can also take advantage of the wellness center, the largest hotel spa in Tokyo. You can visit the steam room, fitness center, 30-meter pool, and Japanese-style bathing facilities. Aman Tokyo also allows guests to immerse themselves in Japanese culture by participating in an Iaido swordsmanship session focused on samurai etiquette or making their own fan at Ibaesen.  

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Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills 

Just five minutes from the subway lines at Toranomon Station, Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills provides easy access to all of the city’s major sites. Accommodations include an elegant lounge, an expansive spa, rooms at 50 meters or larger, and deep-soaking bathtubs to relax in after a long day of sightseeing. 

There are several dining options on-site with Japanese and American cuisines and a rooftop bar for cocktails. You can also visit the neighboring restaurant Tokyo Shiba Tofuya Ukai, established in the 19th century at the bottom of the Tokyo Tower, and try their homemade tofu.

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Manga Art Hotel Tokyo  

If you’re a bookworm, book yourself a room at the Manga Art Hotel in Tokyo to immerse yourself in the world of Japanese comic books. In Chiyoda near the Imperial Palace Gardens, this unique and affordable hostel will allow you to live in the world of manga.

With quaint minimalistic rooms, lockers for valuables, and an extensive library of manga to choose from, it’s easy to decompress at the Manga Art Hotel. Though hostels typically have a mixed reputation, this hip property is cheap, safe, and clean, and gives guests easy access to popular historical sites, including the Kanda Shrine, Hibiya Park, and the Edo Castle Ruins. 

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Grand Hyatt Tokyo 

If you stay at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo in the spring, you may be able to see the famous cherry blossoms bloom at Mohri Garden. This luxury hotel sits in Roppongi, known as the international district, and is adjacent to a neighborhood that houses over 200 shops and restaurants. With a wide variety of spacious room options, the Grand Hyatt Tokyo can suit any traveler’s needs. 

You don’t have to travel far to dine in style, as the hotel has ten restaurants with a wide range of cuisines for you to choose from. You can also visit the hotel’s bar to hear musical performances in the lively jazz lounge. Within reach of Ginza and Shibuya, the fashion centers of Tokyo, you can shop until you drop without having to carry your bags too far. Don’t miss out on other local attractions including the Mori Art Museum and Meiji Jingu, a Shinto shrine. 

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The Peninsula Tokyo 

Another option for shopaholics, the Peninsula Tokyo is within walking distance of Ginza, the city’s center for shopping. Located in the Marunouchi area, known as one of Japan’s leading business districts, this luxury hotel welcomes all, including pets. The Peninsula Tokyo has some of the largest guest rooms in the city, tastefully decorated with a blend of traditional and modern Japanese decor. 

The Peninsula Tokyo has seven restaurants for you to choose from and a limousine service available for transport. The world-class spa also has a fitness center, indoor pool, and spa treatments for guests. Through the hotel’s Peninsula Academy, you can take guided tours of Edo, wind chime-making classes, flight simulation, and more.

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Palace Hotel Tokyo

While you can’t stay at the Imperial Palace, you can live out your modern-day fairytale fantasies by booking your stay at the Palace Hotel Tokyo. With views of the Imperial Palace Gardens, this luxury hotel offers guests royal treatment in a 21st-century urban setting.

With multiple afternoon tea options, seven restaurants, and three bars to choose from, you’ll never be short on dining options. You can also visit the hotel’s Evian Spa Tokyo, where you can experience everything the renowned Switzerland spa has to offer in Japan. 

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OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka by Hoshino Resorts

Chic but casual, OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka by Hoshino Resorts will allow you to experience Old Tokyo without having to time travel. Located between Ikebukuro and Sugamo, Otsuka has a uniquely Showa townscape featuring all the charm of Tokyo in the mid-20th century. The guest rooms reflect the retro Japanese architecture of the neighborhood and are the perfect combination of stylish and functional. You can also visit the hotel’s cafe for a quick bite, or the restaurant Neighborhood Gourmet for a more filling meal. The hotel also has a homey lounge and a shop filled with local goods for guests to enjoy. 

Like the hotel, the neighborhood also has plenty to offer in terms of food and entertainment. Local haunts include sake bars and jazz clubs. You can also join the OMO Rangers, a group tour organized by the hotel that showcases all that the neighborhood has to offer. Other nearby attractions include the Tokyo Tower, Onshi Ueno Zoo, and Sugamo Jizo Dori Shopping Street. 

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The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo 

The ultimate luxury accommodation, the Ritz-Carlton is located on the 45th level of the Midtown Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo. Boasting panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline, you can treat yourself to afternoon tea while overlooking Mount Fuji. Guests can practice self-care by visiting the hotel’s spa, fitness center, indoor pool, and nail salon and follow it up with a delicious meal at one of the property’s seven restaurants and bars.

The Ritz-Carlton is also located in the Roppongi District, which is known for its Michelin-star restaurants and luxury shopping. You can visit nearby sites like the National Art Center, the Mori Museum, and the Toyosu Fish Market. 

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Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku

Just a 3-minute walk from the Higashi-Shinjuku subway station, the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku offers both business and leisure travelers a chance to explore the heart of Tokyo at affordable rates. For travelers who always lose or demagnetize their room key, no need to worry—at this hotel, you can unlock your room with your phone. Concerned about check-in and check-out times? At the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku, you can come and go according to your schedule with the self-check-in and check-out stations. 

This hotel also has laundry facilities, vending machines, and restaurants for guests to visit at their leisure. From the hotel, you can easily make your way to see local attractions like the Imperial Palace and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. 

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The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku 

Adjacent to Shinjuku Central Park, guests staying at The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku can enjoy the beauty of nature within the city while sticking to their budget. In Nishishinjuku, also known as the business district, this inexpensive hotel has a wide variety of room options that are all comfortable and modestly decorated. With a bakery, grill, and tapas lounge, The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku can easily suit your dietary needs and desires. 

By subway or car, guests can easily make their way to the center of the city in no time to explore the New National Theatre, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the National Museum of Art, and more. The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku allows travelers to experience all the wonders of central Tokyo without spending more than they need to. 

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Outskirts of Tokyo: Hinode, Machida, and Setagaya

You may think staying outside of central Tokyo puts travelers at a disadvantage, but you would be surprised by what these locations have to offer. With direct access to the city center via subway, bus, or car, hotels in these three areas offer guests the same experiences but for a better price. 

Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita 

A hidden natural oasis in Setagaya City, Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita offers guests the chance to reconnect with nature and themselves while enjoying all of the exciting activities in Tokyo. Set in a quiet neighborhood just beyond the city center, what was once filled with tea plantations now has guest rooms with outdoor baths, private gardens, and more. Renowned for its onsen, or natural hot springs, Yuen Bettei Daita allows guests to rest and heal in the alkaline water. 

At this hotel, you have access to seasonal Japanese food and the chance to try traditional Japanese tea at the teahouse. Yuen Bettei Daita not only encourages guests to achieve wellness through dining but also by visiting the Soyju Spa and personalizing their wellness journey. 

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Rembrandt Hotel Tokyo Machida 

Do you want to travel in style on a budget? The Rembrandt Hotel Tokyo Machida has the amenities and accommodations of a luxury hotel without the exorbitant price tag. Adjacent to Serigaya Park, the moderately-sized rooms offer stunning views of the city and free wifi. With several restaurants, the Rembrandt Hotel Tokyo Machida provides guests with multiple dining options either in-house or for takeout. 

While you can reach central Tokyo by subway, bus, or car, you can also visit lesser-known sites in Machida including Serigaya Park, where you can see one hundred Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom in the spring, or play golf at one of the many golf courses in the area.

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Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay 

If you want an affordable family-friendly hotel on the water, then Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay is the perfect place for you. Close to Disneyland Tokyo, this hotel hosts gorgeous views of Tokyo Bay at reasonable rates. The rooms comfortably fit larger parties and feature tasteful modern decor, with blackout curtains that allow you to  tune out of the noise of the city and the bay and get some shut-eye. 

With easy access to local attractions, the Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay is perfect for travelers on a budget. The hotel also has numerous amenities for guests including a manga library in the lobby, a restaurant available for private use, and laundry machines.

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The post The 14 Best Hotels In Tokyo appeared first on SmarterTravel.

 1. El Tovar Hotel

The cinnamon and caramel-colored limestone walls of El Tovar Hotel make it seem like an extension of the Grand Canyon itself. Guests will rest comfortably in spacious, modern guest rooms and can enjoy on-site activities and amenities like horseback riding and bicycle rentals. The El Tovar Dining Room offers American cuisine, and the property also offers a snack bar for a quick bite before going for a hike or taking a mule ride into the neighboring Canyon.

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2. Yavapai Lodge

The A-frame entrance of this rustic lodge invites you into a place that mirrors the natural beauty of the park throughout its halls and rooms. The main lodge houses the Yavapai Tavern, where guests can enjoy a delicious meal, while the guestrooms are split between the Yavapai Lodge East and Yavapai Lodge West buildings. When you sweep back the curtains of your window in either building, you’ll have a captivating view of the surrounding forest. The Grand Canyon’s South Rim is within easy walking distance, or accessible by short bus ride.

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3. Holiday Inn Express

If you’re a fan of Holiday Inn hospitality,  you won’t be disappointed when staying at this property, just under a half-mile from the Grand Canyon. There’s a complimentary shuttle available to get to any Canyon destination and an indoor pool to cool off after a day of touring. There’s also a small hot tub to soothe your aching muscles. The staff is friendly, and their breakfast will begin your day in style.

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4. Clear Sky Resorts

Book a one-of-kind stay at the sky domes at Clear Sky Resorts. Each of its 31 standalone guest rooms feature transparent entry portals and sky-view openings in the ceilings. Although it will feel like you’re sleeping under the stars, never fear—each room is air conditioned, heated, and outfitted with a luxurious modern bathroom, complete with rain shower. Before settling in for the evening,  enjoy gathering in the courtyard to make s’mores at the nightly campfires.

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5. The Grand Hotel

If you’re going to the Grand Canyon, why not stay at the Grand Hotel? A modern hotel with old-fashioned hospitality, this property features an indoor heated pool and hot tub, LED TVs in every guest room, a fireplace in the lobby, and a Parlor Room where guests can enjoy games or play the grand piano.  Dine at the Canyon Star Steakhouse or Canyon Star Saloon on-site, with breakfast served daily from 7am to 10am. 

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6. Maswik Lodge 

If you want to stay inside Grand Canyon National Park, the Maswik will help that dream become a reality. Located within walking distance of the canyon rim, this 280-room lodge is smoke-free and wheelchair-accessible, with air conditioning in each room and free WiFi available throughout the property. Guests can dine at Mawsik’s on-site food court or take advantage of ordering cooked-to-order breakfasts in the mornings before a day of exploring. 

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7. The Grand Canyon Headquarters

There are only four guest rooms in this small lodge, but each of them will make you feel like a pampered pioneer. Each room features a comfortable temperature-controlled bed, super-soft Egyptian cotton sheets, and a private furnished patio with a perfect view of the surrounding nature reserve. Prepare your own meals in your suite’s personal kitchenette, or head outside to use one of the hotel’s barbecue grills. 

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8. Under Canvas 

Glamping fans will find their paradise at Under Canvas. This campsite maintains the charm of staying outdoors, but in tents furnished with comfortable hotel beds and upscale furniture. The property is eco-friendly,  including water-efficient toilets and eco-friendly cleaning products. Enjoy cooking your meals on a grill or dine at nearby Embers Restaurant.

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9. Raptor Ranch

Animal lovers can cross two bucket list items off the agenda by combining their trip to the Grand Canyon with the incredible interactive raptor flight demonstrations at the Raptor Ranch. This RV park and glamping destination has 36 RV sites and tents available to book, with free Wi-Fi, a laundry room, and a camp store for anything you forgot to bring. Flight demonstrations run four times a day, weather permitting.

This park is extra fun for families, with the dino-themed playground Bedrock—a tribute to the Flintstones. 

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The post The Best Places to Stay Near the Grand Canyon appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What “Duty-Free” Really Means

When shopping duty-free abroad, the “duty,” or, more accurately, “tax,” that you avoid is the tax that’s in effect where the airport is located. You’re not avoiding a U.S. import duty, which is very low on most items, anyways. The main tax is usually a value-added tax (VAT), although a local import tax could be involved, depending on the location. When duty-free shopping in the U.S., the taxes you avoid are the state and local sales taxes, and/or the federal excise tax that apply to some products.

Duty-Free Items Aren’t Necessarily Cheaper

Airport duty-free shops do not price items by simply dropping the tax; they price so as to be reasonably competitive in their local area. But the shops have to bear the usual retail overhead and also pay a stiff royalty to the airport, so the markups are still high.

Choose Your Duty-Free Purchases Strategically

When you’re returning to the U.S. after a foreign trip, the best buys are generally confined to items that are subject either to a stiff U.S. excise tax or to tight manufacturers’ price controls. That means liquor, tobacco, cosmetics, and fragrances typically offer the best deal.

Duty-Free Electronics Can Be More Expensive

Although they’re often available when duty-free shopping, cameras, watches, and other electronics are almost always cheaper online via sites like Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, or Walmart, than at any duty-free shop.

You Can Shop Duty-Free On Arrival

Some countries allow arriving international travelers to use duty-free shops before leaving the airport, but the U.S. does not. Returning U.S. travelers can buy duty-free only at foreign departure airports.

Liquor is the Most Popular Duty-Free Purchase

Liquor is probably the most popular duty-free buy for U.S. travelers. TSA rules allow travelers to bring liter bottles into the country as an added carry-on even on connecting domestic flights, as long as they’re packed in tamper-evident bags—which the duty-free stores provide with your purchase.

There Are Limits on Duty-Free Purchases

Returning U.S. citizens are allowed one liter of duty-free alcohol and a maximum of either 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars from most foreign countries. Some states impose tighter restrictions on import of liquor and tobacco than the federal restrictions. Conversely, “states may allow you to bring back more than one liter, but you will have to pay any applicable Customs duty and IRT,” according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

No matter where you’re traveling, find your hotel for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels.

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Consumer advocate Ed Perkins has been writing about travel for more than three decades. The founding editor of the Consumer Reports Travel Letter, he continues to inform travelers and fight consumer abuse every day at SmarterTravel. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post 7 Things You Need to Know About Duty-Free Shopping appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Yellowstone encapsulates the American West. The very first national park in the country, it attracts huge crowds, especially during the summer months. There is a lot to do here, with five park entrances, several geyser basins to see, and miles of trails to explore. 

If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, this guide covers everything you need to know. From what to do to the best places to eat, we’ll help you create an itinerary that aligns with your interests and trip duration. If you want to see most of what Yellowstone offers, your trip should be at least 3-5 days. However, you can touch the main highlights in a day or two if you don’t have longer.

Where is Yellowstone National Park Located?

Yellowstone is a massive 2 million acres of land that sits atop a dormant volcano. Primarily located in Wyoming, the park spills over into Idaho and Montana. There are five entrances to Yellowstone:

• North entrance through Gardiner, Montana
• Northeast entrance through Cook City, Montana
• South entrance through Grand Teton National Park
• East entrance through Cody, Wyoming
• West entrance through West Yellowstone, Montana

Yellowstone is a popular road trip destination, so visits here are typically combined with Grand Teton National Park, Glacier National Park, Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore, or Rocky Mountain National Park.

Inside Yellowstone Park, a road network connects to form a figure of ‘8’. The main loop, Grand Loop Road, lets visitors see the major attractions in the park. Driving along each side of Grand Loop road will reveal waterfalls, lakes, geysers, and hot springs. Bisecting Grand Loop Road is Norris Canyon, where you can visit museums and even more waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Yellowstone

There are a lot of activities to try and places to visit in Yellowstone National Park, from sighting wildlife to hiking and camping. There are approximately 900 miles of trails to explore in the park.

Yellowstone’s unique geothermal activities will make your experience worthwhile and unique on each visit. You can go back for years and still discover something new every time. For first-time visitors to Yellowstone, though, this is a great starting point to see the best of the park.

Old Faithful

Old Faithful is the most famous of nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone. Named for its frequent and predictable eruptions, this geyser has been erupting on a pretty reliable schedule since Yellowstone became the first national park in 1872. Old Faithful is so predictable that you can check eruption times on the NPS website to help plan your visit.

There are three ways to watch Old Faithful eruptions: sitting by the boardwalk, hiking up to Observation Point, or from Old Faithful Inn’s viewing deck. The boardwalk surrounds the geyser, but this area is always packed with tourists. Get here 30 minutes early to secure a good seat to watch the show. 

To get a bird’s eye view, hike up to Observation Point. This short but strenuous uphill hike is  1.1-miles round trip. The extra effort is worth it since you’ll be away from the crowds and still get a stunning view as Old Faithful spouts jets of steam and hot water. 

Lastly, you can find a more comfortable spot on Old Faithful Inn’s porch. Grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the view. Other things you can do around Old Faithful include joining a historic Old Faithful Inn tour, going to the visitor center, and grabbing a meal at one of the several restaurants. 

Note: Old Faithful erupts roughly every hour and thirty minutes, give or take 10 minutes. The eruption usually lasts between 2 to 5 minutes. Check Old Faithful’s next predicted eruption time.

Upper Geyser Basin

Although Old Faithful is the most popular attraction in the Upper Geyser Basin, there are other amazing things to see and do here. Several geothermal features make this basin one of the best zones in the park to see geysers, hot springs, and thermal pools. 

You can walk all the Upper Geyser Basin boardwalk trails in two hours and hike to Geyser Hill. You’ll find Grand Geyser, Solitary Geyser, Castle Geyser, and Grotto Geyser. Grotto geyser erupts only every 8 hours, but it can keep going for several hours once it starts. 

For a beautiful sight, visit the Morning Glory Pool. It’s quite far away, but this hot spring is worth it.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring is Yellowstone’s most impressive hot spring. It’s the third-largest hot spring in the world, and its vibrant gradient of colors is created by microbes that grow in hot water. The yellow microbes’ color blends with the brilliant blue of the spring to form the greens and then along the edges, and as the water cools, they change to orange and brown. These colors can also vary depending on the time of year.

Visiting this rainbow-colored thermal pool is one of the best things in Yellowstone National Park. You can get up close to Grand Prismatic Spring with the Midway Geyser Basin boardwalk trails or get the full mesmerizing view from the Overlook. Plan to visit on a sunny afternoon when the steam has lifted and the pool’s colors are brilliant.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a valley formed by the Yellowstone River. This ever-changing canyon reflects the park’s complex geologic history in picturesque colors and shapes. You’ll find many overlooks and hiking trails to explore here. There are two rims along each side of the river, the North Rim and the South Rim. These two rims help you access various scenic overlooks that offer different perspectives of the river valley.

Popular viewpoints include:

• Artist Point: Aptly named, this South Rim overlook is arguably the best spot to take an iconic picture of the canyon. It’s also a short walk from the parking lot, so it should be top on your list to visit.
• Brink of the Lower Falls: A downhill trek to this observation point puts you at the edge of the Lower Falls as the water thunders. This is the best place to understand the river’s immense power.
• Lookout Point: Located along the North Rim, this overlook offers stunning views of the Lower Falls.
• Red Rock Point: This is another hike down the canyon that has great views of Lower Falls.

Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin has many geothermal features, like the Upper Geyser Basin. It’s also one of the most unique thermal areas in the park, as it’s always changing. These changes can include the formation of new mud pots, chemical changes to water, and increased activity of certain geysers. Norris Geyser Basin consists of two major basins, Back Basin and Porcelain Basin. 

The larger Back Basin is where you’ll find Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser. Its major eruptions are highly unpredictable but can shoot hot, steaming water more than 300 feet in the air. Other thermal pools and geysers include the Porkchop Geyser, Emerald Spring, and Green Dragon Spring.

Porcelain Basin might be considered more thrilling thanks to soft blue thermal pools and noisy fumaroles that capture your attention.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is a large network of hot springs close to Yellowstone’s north entrance. These springs are very different from other thermal areas in the park. At Mammoth, steaming hot water spills out over travertine layers, depositing white chalky minerals on the surface and sculpting gorgeous terraces.

You can spend an hour or more strolling the boardwalk past each viewpoint here or check out one or two overlooks for a quick visit. 

Hike to the Peak of Mount Washburn

A popular part of Yellowstone for hiking and camping, Mt. Washburn offers panoramic views of the park. The moderately-challenging hike to the peak of Mt. Washburn is about 1,400 feet and takes 3-4 hours round trip. There are two trails you can hike up here. Dunraven Pass trailhead offers a more scenic walk, while hiking from Chittenden Road is about a mile shorter. Dunraven is 6.2 miles roundtrip, and Chittendon Road is 5 miles roundtrip.  

You’ll usually see pica, chipmunks, and sometimes even bighorn sheep. This hike is best done on a clear day and in groups because this is grizzly territory. Bring your bear spray and avoid hiking in September when the bears are getting ready to hibernate.

Fairy Falls

One of Yellowstone’s tallest waterfalls, Fairy Falls, is worth a visit. It’s an easy hike to get here, and you can plan a visit to Fairy Falls with the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.

Start from the Fairy Falls parking lot, which is the same lot used when visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook. On the 2.7-mile hike, you’ll be trekking through a forest, so you may come across bears and other wildlife.

Sight Wildlife in Hayden and Lamar Valleys

Lamar and Hayden Valley are two popular spots to watch bison and other wildlife in Yellowstone. Lamar Valley is especially touted as the best area to see diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, pronghorns, coyotes, and wolves. An hour from Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley is far from other attractions but worth the long drive. The best times to view wildlife are in the mornings and evenings. Plan to leave your lodge early or tour other attractions during the day and save this for last. 

Hayden Valley is centrally located and easier to access, but this also means it gets more crowded. You’ll see bison herds in the distance or along the roadside if you get lucky. You should also be prepared to get stuck in animal traffic jams. Bison are known to stop in the middle of the road, blocking traffic in both directions. 

Note: You should always watch bison from the safety of your car. These animals have been known to charge tourists and can do great damage. Park in a turnout to view the bison, or if you have a sunroof, crack it open for an unobstructed view.

Artist Paintpots

Artist Paintpots is a small area off Grand Loop Road south of Norris Geyser Basin. It contains a few large hot springs, geysers, and the oddities that are mud pots. You’ll walk about half a mile down the trail from the parking lot to the Paint Pots. It might feel like a long walk to get there, but watching the bubbling mud pots is worth it. 

Most thermal features here are on Paintpot Hill, so you’ll love the view from the upper boardwalk trail. Remember to climb carefully, as some of the steps are uneven.

Preparing for Your Yellowstone Trip

Yellowstone National Park Fee

Yellowstone’s entrance fee is $35 per car, valid for seven days. This pass covers everyone in your vehicle. There’s also a motorcycle 7-day motorcycle pass for $30. 

If you plan to visit other national parks on your trip, such as Grand Teton and Glacier National Parks, you should opt for the America the Beautiful Pass. This pass is valid for one year and costs $80. Purchasing the annual pass will save you money on your trip and also get you free admission to all other national parks and federal recreation sites for 12 months.

There are other discounted entrance passes for certain ages and social groups. Senior citizens, for example, can get a lifetime senior pass valid in all national parks for $80 or an annual pass for $20. And for US families with a fourth grader, you all get into National Parks free during their school year and the next summer as part of the Every Kid Outdoors program.

What to Bring On Your Trip to Yellowstone

Bring a spotting scope or some good binoculars to see Yellowstone like a pro. Known for vast herds of bison and elk and a thriving wildlife population, you don’t want to miss your chance to sight critters in the park. If you’d rather not buy a spotting scope, rent them from stores in West Yellowstone or Gardiner (starting at $25 a day). 

Invest in good hiking shoes to hike some of Yellowstone’s popular sights. While a few of these trails are pretty easy, you’ll usually walk long distances up and down steep heights. You need comfortable footwear that protects your feet from rugged terrain and fatigue.

Most importantly, travel light. Yellowstone Park has no public transportation, so you’ll likely be driving from one part of the park to another. If you’re camping or staying at different lodges, the last thing you want is to pack up lots of stuff every time you transfer.

Be a Cautious Traveler

While cases of people dying in Yellowstone are rare, they do happen. Avoid petting or feeding animals in the park, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Don’t venture off designated trails, try to swim in thermal pools, or walk over delicate ecosystems just for a better shot. When you’re in bear territory, stay in groups and carry bear spray.

We must respect the environment and leave areas just as we met them to benefit future travelers. Remember to properly dispose of waste, pack out what you bring to the trail, minimize campfire impact, and be considerate of other hikers. 

When to Visit Yellowstone

The best time to visit Yellowstone is from June through October. Many park roads are closed due to snowfall from November to May. You can visit the park in the winter, but you must get around by snowmobile or snow coach. 

Needless to say, expect huge crowds in the summer months, especially in July and August. Almost 2 million visitors travel to Yellowstone in this period. Expect to find a popular attraction like Old Faithful always crowded, and locating a parking spot at midday is almost impossible. 

To avoid the most crowds, head out early in the morning, and be prepared to venture into the backcountry. Crowds thin out significantly after a few miles on boardwalk trails, and most people don’t go beyond the most popular attractions. Take advantage of this to escape people and discover hidden gems all over Yellowstone.

How to Get to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming. You can catch flights to nearby airports and then drive down to Yellowstone. Here are the options:

• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Montana: 80 miles
• Idaho Falls Regional Airport, Idaho: 110 miles
• Yellowstone Airport, West Entrance of Yellowstone: 3 miles
• Yellowstone Regional Airport, Cody, Wyoming: 55 miles
• Jackson Hole Airport, Jackson, Wyoming: 70 miles
• Salt Lake City International Airport, Utah: 325 miles
• Rapid City Regional Airport, South Dakota: 440 miles

Yellowstone Airport at the park’s west entrance is the closest option, just 10 minutes away from Yellowstone. However, only two airlines fly here, reducing your options significantly. Bozeman airport is a popular choice—it’s about 1.30 hours away from Yellowstone and connects to over 20 US cities. 

Where to Stay In Yellowstone

The best place to stay in Yellowstone depends on your travel plans. Yellowstone is massive, with five park entrances and multiple villages and towns in and around the park. We recommend staying in two different areas if you spend three or more days here. Switching accommodations can help you reduce travel time within the park. If you’d like to stay in one place, Canyon Village is centrally located to many attractions in Yellowstone.

Inside Yellowstone Park

Nine hotels offer over 2,000 rooms and cabins inside Yellowstone Park, including the Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Twelve campgrounds are also available around the park; some require reservations, while others are on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re camping in Yellowstone, be conscious of your surroundings; you’ll share the territory with predators like grizzly bears. 

Lodging Outside Yellowstone

Staying in one of the towns outside the park will increase your drive time but can save you money and take you away from crowds. Popular towns to stay at are West Yellowstone and Gardiner in Montana and Cody, Wyoming.

Some top Hotels in these areas are:

• Terra Nova Cabins is a cozy hotel in a quiet area of West Yellowstone. It’s 20 minutes to the northwest entrance of Yellowstone National Park, and you’ll love the scenic drive. 
• Wagon Wheel Hotel takes inspiration from the natural beauty of the surrounding Yellowstone area. Its rooms have a rustic-chic vibe, with most having walls of wood. 
• Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites is an upscale hotel in Cody, Wyoming. It has a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and an onsite restaurant.
• Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village is an affordable hotel in Cody. Rooms are laidback with minimal decor and a fitness center. The Inn is 52 miles from the east gate of Yellowstone National Park.
• Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel offers a unique experience in Gardiner. Guests sleep in well-furnished romantic tipis, and there’s a mini-market and onsite bar. In the evenings, you can share s’mores and drinks over a campfire.

Where to Find Food and Drinks in Yellowstone

You’ll find restaurants and stores selling snacks and drinks at major tourist areas in Yellowstone. Remember to stock up on water and snacks before hiking. Popular areas include Canyon Village, Grant Village, Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, and Tower Falls. You’ll find everything from marina stores to cafeterias.

For gourmet meals, venture outside the park to the Grill at Sage Lodge, Montana, which serves meat dishes like bison fillet and chicken-fried rabbit. Gardiner is also popular for its eateries and restaurants. 

You can also build a picnic from the stores to have lunch on the trail. I recommend Mammoth Terrace Grill or Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli for snacks and light fare.

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For now, switching to airplane mode is a federal requirement on U.S. domestic flights. You must disable wireless transmission functions such as cellular voice and data.

But why?

Here’s the answer: Cell phones are designed to send out signals strong enough to reach great distances. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which originally put the ban in place back in the early 1990s, the radio frequency emitted by these and other electronic devices could interfere with cell tower networks on the ground.

What Happens If You Forget to Turn On Airplane Mode?

If you don’t switch into airplane mode then your cell phone or cellular-enabled tablet will keep attempting to make connections with every cell tower on the ground that the airplane passes.

Not only will the signals cause interference with airplane navigation, but the effort it takes your cell phone to keep scanning and tower hopping at fly-by speeds will also drain your battery and still not maintain a constant signal.

“Cellular does not function as well with the speed and altitude of the plane and so needs an alternate off-aircraft connectivity solution to make it work,” says John Wade, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at Gogo, a technology company that provides in-flight connectivity and wireless entertainment services for Delta, United, and others.

“Wi-Fi usage takes advantage of the aircraft’s off-aircraft connectivity, enabling a better connection and functionality.”

Accessing In-Flight Wi-Fi

Almost all airlines nowadays offer in-flight Wi-Fi, which is made possible because it’s satellite-based and not dependent on cellular tower connections. Almost every domestic airline offers in-flight Wi-Fi but there are only two airlines that offer it for free, JetBlue and Delta.

Through this network, you can surf online, read emails, check social media, or chat using Internet-based messaging apps like iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp. Although you can’t now text with SMS over cellular, you can use Wi-Fi.

And although you can’t now make in-flight voice calls over cellular, you could use Wi-Fi. But U.S. airlines won’t allow it. All domestic carriers prohibit VoIP calls even though many international carriers do not. And what happens to that plane when it enters U.S. airspace? The technology that allows in-flight calling is turned off.

Today, there is more extensive bandwidth and upgraded satellite technology on most airlines around the world, with Qantas and JetBlue among the first to adopt.

In February 2017, Qantas introduced its new in-flight Wi-Fi network using the upgraded technology. Connection speeds increased up to 10 times faster than conventional in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to stream Netflix, Spotify, and other online content to their personal devices. In following years, more airlines have come out with gate-to-gate connectivity like Southwest, Norwegian, and JetBlue (which also supports streaming services).

And if airlines offer in-flight Wi-Fi, they most likely also allow you to stream video and other media in-flight, but it’ll cost you. Similar to the tiered Wi-Fi plans that you’ll find at hotels, you now see passengers having the option to select a certain speed of Wi-Fi for their inflight plans. The only exception to this is when the airline offers in-flight entertainment on your own device via its app, which is free to stream.

Stay Entertained with Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Whether your flight is one hour or ten, the best way to make the time soar by is by watching pre-downloaded movies, audiobooks, or music with noise-canceling headphones.

The Future of In-Flight Cellular

Over a decade ago the European Commission began allowing in-flight cellular service throughout the EU. Several airlines offer onboard voice calling, data, and texting, while others allow only data and texting. Beginning this past June, flights in the EU have adopted 5G capability, allowing for full albeit slower mobile usage in-flight.

Technically speaking, the service requires that each plane be fitted with its own mobile base station, a network control unit that prevents onboard phone signals from reaching land-based networks and a satellite link to terrestrial phone networks.

The technology has been deployed successfully in Europe and around the world without incident, according to the FCC. It’s available in the United States, too. Some of Gogo’s business aviation customers are already using it, but none of the technology company’s 16 commercial airline customers have requested it.

Over the past several years the FCC collected consumer and technical input as it considered new proposed rules that would give airlines the freedom to allow cellular service if the aircraft is outfitted with the proper onboard equipment. However, it ultimately decided against the proposal in 2020 after strong opposition from flight crew, passengers, and members of Congress.

Do Americans Even Want Voice Calling?

The FCC’s decision seemingly reflects the sentiment of the majority of Americans. A 2018 study commissioned by Turkish Airlines showed that 89% of U.S. respondents were against in-flight voice calls.

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Editor’s Note: This story has been corrected to note that the ban on in-flight cellular data use originated with the FCC, not the FAA, and to clarify the reasons behind this ban. This article was written in 2017 and has been updated with the latest information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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The Best Place to Sit on a Plane

Not all coach seats are created equal. Exit rows, aisle or window seats, and seats close to the front are typically considered the best seats on a plane.

On a short business trip, you might want an aisle seat near the front of the plane so you can debark as quickly as possible on arrival. On a long-haul or overnight flight, you might prefer to have a coach seat next to the window so you can rest your head. The drawback is that you’ll need to disturb your seatmates each time you need to go to the bathroom. Nervous flyers may want to sit toward the middle of the plane over the wing, where there is less turbulence.

Exit row seats usually offer a bit more legroom, but they’re not appropriate if you’re traveling as a family. Children under 12 or 15 years old, depending on the airline, are not permitted to sit in exit rows, and by U.S. law infants are not allowed in the rows immediately behind or in front of an exit row either. Larger planes often have two exit rows, but it’s wise to avoid the first one, as the seats often will not recline. It is also important to note that if an emergency does occur, you will be expected to help out.

Many flyers also like “bulkhead seats,” which are the seats directly behind the physical barriers (such as walls, curtains, or screens) that separate different parts of the plane. Because there are no seats in front of you, you won’t get stuck with another passenger reclining into your lap—and you often get some extra legroom as well.

But be careful: Not all “bulkhead” rows are created equal. On some planes the first bulkhead row may be cramped and uncomfortable, or close to restrooms and noisy galleys. Also, keep in mind that you won’t have a spot to stow a personal item under the seat in front of you for easy access. Some planes offer bassinets for babies at the bulkhead wall, so you could be forced to spend the flight in close proximity to a crying child.

Each airline presents a unique set of challenges to flyers, say the experts at SeatGuru: “Not all legroom is equal since there is no industry standard. Before booking your flight, take a look to see which airlines fly that route and then check to see how they stack up against each other.” For more information, go to SeatGuru.com, where you can check out seat maps for nearly every type of plane on every major airline.

Keep an eye on seat pitch, especially if you’re tall. This is a measure of how much space there is between a seat and the one immediately behind or in front of it—so the higher the number, the more legroom you will have. SeatGuru lists both seat pitch and width (when available) for most airlines, and indicates the location of power ports or personal TV screens at each seat. Keep in mind, though, that the aircraft type could change at the last minute, so you can’t be absolutely sure about the configuration until you step onto the plane.

If you’re looking to sit in the safest part of the plane, opt for a seat near the rear.

The middle seat in any row is generally undesirable. (Don’t miss SmarterTravel’s tips for surviving the middle seat if you get stuck there.) Rows near flight attendant areas and restrooms tend to be noisier and have more traffic, and seats very close to overhead movie screens can be uncomfortable or too bright if you are trying to sleep. SeatGuru also identifies other potential problems on its seat maps, such as limited recline or reduced seat width.

10 Ways to Get a Better Seat

So how can you avoid the pitfalls above and land one of the best seats on a plane? Follow these tips.

Join a frequent flyer program.

This is the most reliable tactic you can use. Providing your frequent flyer number at the time of reservation goes a long way toward netting you a good seat, especially if you are a loyal, high-ranking member. Elite flyers tend to be first in line for upgrades.

To achieve status, you’ll have to fly at least 25,000 actual air miles in a calendar year on one particular airline or its partners. Hang onto your boarding passes until you check your online account to ensure your miles have been credited. Once you’ve racked up some frequent flyer miles, you may use them for seat upgrades. Boost your earning power by signing up for an airline-affiliated credit card with signing bonuses of 40,000 miles or more.

Buy your tickets early.

The number of seats available for pre-assignment dwindles as the travel date approaches. SeatGuru says that usually you can’t choose good seats the day before your flight since most of the best airplane seats go quickly. The earlier you book your flight, the more seats are available and the bigger your pool is to pick from. Try for a flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday when it’s less busy, leaving more middle seats open so you have more wiggle room beside you while sitting on the aisle or by the window.

If you can’t buy your tickets at least several weeks in advance, be sure to check in online as soon as possible before your flight to select a seat, or arrive at the airport early if online check-in isn’t available. When you’re seat shopping, don’t assume business class costs much more than coach. Sometimes you can get a nonrefundable deal for a seat in first or business class for just a bit more.

Purchase a better seat.

Many airlines now offer economy-class seats with extra legroom for an additional fee. For example, JetBlue’s Even More Space seats, many of which are in exit rows, have up to seven extra inches of seat pitch. United offers Economy Plus access to high-ranking frequent flyers and to any travelers who pay the annual fee. This entitles you to a few extra inches of seat pitch toward the front of the coach cabin. (If any Economy Plus seats are still available at flight time, they can be purchased on a one-time basis.) Other airlines offer similar programs.

Make sure you understand what you’re getting for the money. You may be closer to the front of the cabin, but that might be all you’re buying since no perks (like meals) come with your “upgraded” coach seat.

Select your seat when you book.

Most airline websites and booking engines allow you to choose a seat when you purchase your ticket, or to return to your reservation after your initial purchase and select a seat later. In many cases, this process is free, but some airlines have added fees for advance seats. If you don’t see a seat you like, return to your reservation as your trip date approaches to see if anything has opened up in the meantime. If you don’t like your online options, try again at the airport, either at check-in or at the gate.

If you try to select your seat once you’ve booked your flight, you might see only the more expensive premium economy seats are available. That doesn’t mean you won’t get a seat eventually. In fact, you may get the premium economy seat anyway when you check in online—without having to pay extra.

Confirm your seat at check-in.

Most airlines allow passengers to check in online up to 24 hours before their flight departs. At that point you can confirm the seat you’ve already chosen or select a better one. Watch for last-minute offers for discounted upgrades on premium economy and business-class seats. Failing that, many airlines hold back the exit rows and bulkheads—the most coveted seats in economy class—until the day of flight so they can be assigned at the airport. You still have a good shot of getting into those more popular rows.

Consider calling the airline directly if online seat assignment is not available. You can also confirm your seat the week you’re flying in case better seats have opened up. Check again a few hours before flight time to see if a good seat has become available.

Short on time or don’t want to keep looking? You can set up a seat alert through ExpertFlyer.com. A single alert is free, but subsequent alerts are charged at $0.99 each.

Get to the airport early.

If you check in too late or arrive too late at your gate, the airline might give away your seat. Follow the airline’s guidelines about how far in advance you should arrive for domestic and international flights.

When in doubt, ask.

Long gone are the days when asking sweetly could get you a first-class upgrade on a flight, but it’s worth a try if you’re not satisfied with your current seat assignment. Once you reach your gate, ask whether any new seats have opened up. If other passengers upgrade to business class or don’t show up for the flight, you might get lucky and grab a better seat assignment.

Be specific.

If you know exactly which seat you’re interested in, it can be easier for agents to get it for you. Instead of asking for “a good seat,” try asking for “an aisle seat near the front” or “an exit row seat.” You’ll be more likely to get what you want (or an acceptable substitute). Ask again before you board. Sometimes gate agents are able to reassign seats at the last minute.

If you still don’t get a desirable seat, wait until the plane doors close. You may be able to move to an unoccupied seat. Check the last rows in the plane since they are often the last seats assigned. However, make sure to check with a flight attendant before hopping into an empty seat.

Keep the agent informed.

If you have a disability or medical condition, or you need to sit next to your small children, let the agent know. Most will do their best to accommodate you.

Kindness counts.

Approach airline agents with courtesy. They hear complaints and demands all day. Speak to them kindly, and you may be surprised. Says SeatGuru, “Keeping the phrase ‘treat others the same way you want to be treated’ in mind and following that can unlock a lot of doors for you.”

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Christine Sarkis, Jessica Labrencis, and Michele Sponagle contributed to this story. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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Passport Book vs. Passport Card

The standard passport book covers all the bases: It’s all the U.S. government requires for you to enter a foreign country and re-enter the United States on your return trip. First-time application fees total $165 (a $130 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee). Many foreign countries require nothing more for entry than a U.S. passport book, although some also require visas.

The passport card, meanwhile, is both less expensive and less flexible. The passport card can be used only to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at a land border crossing or sea port-of-entry. You cannot use the passport card for international air travel, even when you re-enter the U.S. by land. The first-time fee for a passport card is $65 ($30 application fee and $35 acceptance fee).

You can get both a passport book and a passport card for $195 ($160 application fee and $35 acceptance fee).

Passport books or passport cards are both valid for 10 years after issue for adults, and five years for travelers under age 16. The State Department’s website offers complete details and an online application form.

Obviously, it’s far more useful to have a passport book vs. passport card in most cases where you plan to travel internationally. But if your international travel consists entirely of surface trips in the limited areas covered by the passport card, the card is both cheaper and a tad more convenient to carry and use versus the passport book.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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Don’t Assume That a Beach Is Clothing-Optional

Reading somewhere that a beach is clothing-optional does not mean that the beach is actually clothing-optional. Do your due diligence and ensure that the area is truly safe for your naked patronage. To get you started, the American Association for Nude Recreation supplies a short list of nude beaches in the U.S. (there aren’t many), while SmarterTravel has rounded up some of the world’s top nudist destinations.

And if you’re ever unsure as to whether a nude beach is a nude beach? Keep your clothes on. In many places, public nudity is a serious crime that could lead to a fine (or worse).

Don’t Forget to Research Naturist Resorts

Naturist resorts cater to completely clothing-free vacation seekers, so if you want to go all in (or off), consider these options rather than a one-time visit to a nude beach. From family-friendly campgrounds in the Poconos to luxe all-inclusives in the Caribbean, there’s likely a nudist resort option that suits your style and budget.

Rules at each of these resorts differ, and many are adults-only. As with any hotel stay, read the resort’s policies closely before you book.

At a Nude Beach? Don’t Stare

Once you’re on a nudist beach, don’t stare, gawk, point, or giggle. Obviously, you will be required to look at your fellow sunbathers at some point, whether greeting them or fetching their Frisbee from your beach towel. But play it cool: Most nude beach insiders insist that it’s easy, and that at a certain point, you simply stop noticing all the bare skin.

Can’t handle the realities of polite naked society? That’s okay, but stick to clothing-required beaches for the sake of everyone’s comfort.

Don’t Expect Too Much at Nude Beaches

Contrary to popular belief, most nude beaches are not sexy places ripped straight out of the pages of a Playboy Mansion memoir. Patrons come in all sizes, shapes, and states of physical fitness, and are far more likely to veer into dad bod territory than to look like Channing Tatum in the buff. So don’t expect models at a nude beach and then be disappointed when you see, well, normal humans in all their hirsute glory.

Don’t Take Pictures at a Nude Beach

A good rule of thumb: Never, ever take anyone’s photo without their permission. This goes for all tourist destinations—from nude beaches to theme parks to UNESCO World Heritage sites—but it’s especially true when the subject of your photo is naked. Always ask explicitly if you may take a photo and make sure photography is even allowed where you are. (Many nudist beaches prohibit it.)

Furthermore, even if you’re okay with someone snapping a pic of you, keep in mind that you have little control over where that photo ends up—from travel review sites to social media to less pleasant parts of the internet.

Don’t Go Naked in Certain Public Areas

Due to local regulations, many areas at nudist beaches or resorts may, in fact, require clothing, including parking lots, cafes, shops, and so on. Consult any posted signs regarding clothing-required venues and follow them closely. Pack a beach tote with readily accessible garments in case you need to suit up to use the facilities. Most nudist beaches and resorts require you use a towel to sit on public chairs as well.

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

While this doesn’t fall squarely in the etiquette department, it’s still a critical piece of information to have at a nudist beach: Yes, those sensitive areas that are normally protected by swim trunks and bikinis will need a slather of sunscreen, preferably one that’s gentle on sensitive skin. Test it a few weeks before you hit a nude beach to ensure that you don’t end up with an unsightly rash somewhere that you definitely don’t want one.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon

When should you travel to avoid the heaviest crowds and the most intense heat? Should you visit the North Rim or the South Rim? Where’s the best place to stay? For answers to these questions and more, read the following tips for planning a trip to the Grand Canyon.

South Rim vs. North Rim vs. Grand Canyon West

Grand Canyon National Park is split into two sections: the South Rim and the North Rim, located more than four hours apart by car. Then there’s Grand Canyon West, located on the Hualapai Native American Reservation, four hours from the South Rim and nearly seven hours from the North Rim. If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon and your time is limited, where should you go?

The South Rim is the most visited part of the Grand Canyon for a reason. It has more viewpoints than the North Rim, with more expansive views of the canyon’s depth, as well as a wider range of lodging options and other visitor services. It also has plenty of hiking trails and activities like river rafting and mule rides. If you’re looking for classic Grand Canyon views, this is the place to go.

Popular with hikers and photographers, the North Rim is the South Rim’s quieter, more heavily forested cousin. While the views may be less spectacular, many travelers prefer the North Rim for its undisturbed wildlife and pristine trails.

The key draw at Grand Canyon West is the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon for dizzying views on all sides—including right under your feet. (Important note: The Skywalk does not permit cameras or phones. Professional photos are available for sale.) This isn’t the best bet for avid hikers, as there are only two (relatively easy) trails here, but other activities include zip-lining, pontoon boat rides, and touring a Native American village. Grand Canyon West is the closest part of the canyon to Las Vegas, making it a convenient, though long, day trip.

Note that because Grand Canyon West is located on Native American land, it requires a separate entry fee than the North and South Rims, which are administered by the National Park Service.

When to Visit the Grand Canyon

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, consider visiting the South Rim any time other than summer—especially if you’re hoping to hike all the way down to the bottom of the canyon, where temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. Summer is also the busiest time of year; lodging in the park is expensive and sells out quickly, and viewpoints along the rim can be jammed with crowds.

The South Rim is open all year round, and you’ll find pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Even a winter visit can be rewarding; bundle up and enjoy the sight of the canyon dusted with snow.

Thanks to its higher altitude, the North Rim has a cooler climate and is closed between mid-October and mid-May. Fortunately, this part of the park sees fewer visitors and isn’t usually crowded even during the summer high season. Consider visiting in the fall, when the Kaibab National Forest erupts in vibrant colors.

Grand Canyon West, open year-round, is less crowded outside the summer months.

Getting to the Grand Canyon

Most visitors to the Grand Canyon fly into Las Vegas or Phoenix. There’s also a small airport in Flagstaff, just an hour from the South Rim, and some North Rim travelers fly into Salt Lake City. No matter where you land you’ll need to rent a car, as public transit is extremely limited in this part of the U.S.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon, you might need to park your car and take a shuttle bus to get around. Grand Canyon West is closed to private vehicles and operates a hop-on, hop-off shuttle around the park, while certain parts of the South Rim are only accessible by bus. A shuttle service makes the 4.5-hour trip between the North and South Rims; it’s particularly handy for rim-to-rim hikers. The North Rim is fully open to private vehicles.

One fun alternative way to arrive at the South Rim is via the Grand Canyon Railway, which runs from the town of Williams, Arizona, into the heart of the park, allowing for a half-day of exploring before returning in the afternoon.

Grand Canyon Lodging

The most convenient Grand Canyon lodging options are within the national park or Grand Canyon West rather than in nearby towns, but these options tend to book up quickly—sometimes months in advance. When planning a trip to the Canyon, reserve your accommodations first.

The South Rim section of Grand Canyon National Park is home to half a dozen lodges, including the venerable El Tovar, which dates back to 1905 and has hosted former presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton. Another option is the Bright Angel Lodge, situated at the top of the park’s most popular trail. There’s also an RV park near the main visitor center, as well as two campgrounds.

If you can’t find lodging within the South Rim section of the park, there’s a handful of options in nearby Tusayan, as well as dozens of hotels (mostly chain motels) in Williams and Flagstaff, each a little more than an hour from the park entrance gates.

The North Rim has just two places to stay inside the park: the Grand Canyon Lodge, which offers motel rooms and cabins, and the North Rim Campground. If these are booked, consider the Jacob Lake Inn, 45 miles away, or head farther afield to Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona.

The most unique place to stay at Grand Canyon National Park is Phantom Ranch, located on the canyon floor. The only ways to get there are to hike or ride a mule down.

If you want to stay overnight within Grand Canyon West, you can book a cabin at Hualapai Ranch; each one features a front porch where you can relax and enjoy the desert views.

Grand Canyon Hikes

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, leave time for a hike or two.

The simplest walk at Grand Canyon National Park is the Rim Trail, which stretches for 13—mostly flat—miles along the top of the South Rim. Much of it is paved and wheelchair-accessible, and you can enter and leave the path at any viewpoint.

If your fitness allows, try to hike at least part of the way into the Grand Canyon; you’ll get a completely different perspective than you do from the top.

The most popular South Rim trail into the canyon is the Bright Angel Trail, which is well maintained and offers some shade along the way. Another good option is the South Kaibab Trail—it is a little steeper and has less shade, but boasts slightly more dramatic views if you’re only doing part of the trail. While both of these trails go all the way to the bottom, you can easily transform each of them into a day hike by turning around at one of the mile markers and going back the way you came.

The North Rim offers a variety of day hikes ranging from less than a mile to about 10 miles round-trip. It’s possible to hike into the canyon from the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail and back out of the canyon via one of the trails on the South Rim (or vice versa); this is recommended only for fit, experienced hikers.

For information on all the trails listed above, see the day hiking information page on NPS.gov.

The National Park Service strongly recommends against hiking down to the river and back in a single day, even if you’re a veteran hiker. Instead, plan to overnight at Phantom Ranch or one of several backcountry campgrounds within the canyon.

Keep in mind that it usually takes twice as long to come back up the trail as it does to go down, and that temperatures at the bottom of the canyon can be up to 20 degrees higher than those at the top. Hundreds of hikers are rescued each year from the canyon due to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or injury.

Grand Canyon West offers just two hiking trails, one easy and one moderate, and neither one goes into the canyon.

One intriguing Grand Canyon hike to consider is the 10-mile (each way) track to Havasu Falls, the famous turquoise cascade you’ve probably seen on your Instagram feed. It’s located on Native American land between the South Rim and Grand Canyon West. Reservations are required (and limited). To learn more, see the NPS website.

Mule Rides, Rafting Trips, and Helicopter Tours

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, don’t forget about other activities besides hiking, like riding a mule into the canyon. (Why a mule? They’re more sure-footed than horses.)

From the South Rim you can ride a mule to the Colorado River and spend a night or two at Phantom Ranch, or take a shorter two-hour ride along the rim. (See GrandCanyonLodges.com.) From the North Rim you can take one- or three-hour rides along the rim or part of the way into the canyon. (See CanyonRides.com.) Book as far in advance as possible to guarantee yourself a spot.

Dreaming of rafting the Colorado River? You can take a guided trip in the national park with options from a half-day to more than two weeks, or plan your own trip with a permit from the National Park Service. To plan a one- or two-day rafting trip at Grand Canyon West, visit GrandCanyonWest.com.

Finally, one of the most incredible ways to view the Grand Canyon is from the air. Numerous companies operate helicopter tours over the canyon, including Grand Canyon Helicopters and Papillon.

General Grand Canyon Travel Tips

As soon as you arrive, stop by the visitor center—especially if you have limited time. Park rangers can help design an itinerary to make the most of your visit, suggest hikes to suit your fitness level, and recommend the best viewpoints for sunrise and/or sunset.

The desert heat can be deadly, so hikers should pack plenty of water as well as salty snacks. Bring a reusable bottle that you can fill up at water stations located throughout the national park. Start hiking early in the morning to avoid the midday sun. If you get a headache or start to feel dizzy or sick to your stomach, stop to rest and rehydrate.

The South Rim is located at 7,000 feet above sea level, and the North Rim is at nearly 8,300 feet. Some travelers may experience fatigue, headaches, or other symptoms of altitude sickness.

Stick to the trail. Not only does this protect the landscape, but it also protects you. Numerous tourists have died after falling from the rim of the canyon.

The most crowded viewpoints at the South Rim are those nearest the parking lots and bus stops. To avoid getting a hundred other people in every photo, walk along the Rim Trail in either direction. Often you can snap great shots along the trail or find your way to a less congested viewpoint.

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