Today we’re sharing what to do in Williams, Arizona, with kids in the summer.
Williams is known as the ‘gateway to the Grand Canyon’ for good reason–it’s less than an hour from the natural wonder of the world. There’s so much to do for families, both along historic Route 66, to incredible forest and lake adventures, plus a few surprising adventures that both the 12 and four-year-olds both enjoyed.
Keep reading for our favorite summer itinerary, and where to stay, in Williams, Arizona, with kids.
XO,
East Valley Moms
Barefoot Trail: If you only do one ticketed experience in Williams, make it this!! This one-mile adventure course challenges kids from tots to teens (and adults, too!) to ground themselves in nature by going barefoot through the forest and completing 20 mini challenges like a zip-line through the trees, a tire mountain and a rocky mountain climb. See our full review of this incredible adventure here. (closes September for the winter season and will reopen in the spring 2025). 
Bearizona: One of the most beloved attractions in Williams, make sure you make time to go see bears, wolves, bison and more in this drive-through zoo where animals walk right up to your car. There’s also a walking portion of the zoo that highlight elk, deer, more bears and other animals. - Grand Canyon Deer Farm: The Grand Canyon Deer Farm is ten acres of animal encounters. Beyond feeding the deer, you’ll meet llamas, wallabies, reindeer, bison, and more. Our review, and tips for visiting, here.
- Dogtown Lake: This lake is a peaceful destination for families looking to picnic, fish, kayak, paddle board and just play near the water (no swimming allowed in this lake!). There’s vault restrooms on site, ample parking and they also have a campground that I’ve heard great things about (although we haven’t camped there ourselves).
- Grand Canyon: If you’ve made it all the way to Williams, you may as well make the rest of the way to the Grand Canyon (less than an hour away). If you have the America the Beautiful pass, admission is FREE.
- Cowboy shoot out: Nightly at 7 p.m. (summer and fall), this free cowboy shoot out happens in the streets of Historic Route 66.
- Williams Aquatic Center: We love indoor, year round pools for bad weather days while in the mountains. It’s a safe bet if your outside plans get canceled from storms, wind, etc.
Where to Stay in Williams, AZ with kids
Travel Backland: We had the best time glamping in the forest of Williams, Arizona, at this lodge that has 10 tents with hotel-like amenities (yes, plumbing and air/heat in each tent), and the most comprehensive outdoor amenities included for guests (kayaks, fishing, nature trails on site, and more). We can’t recommend staying here enough. More about our stay at Travel Backland with kids here. - Budget-pick: This airbnb was one of the cleanest vacation rentals we’ve ever stayed at, and it’s got some fun personality with safari themed decor throughout the property. If you’re looking for walkability to the Historic Route 66 downtown area, this offers that as well.
- Grand Canyon Railway RV Park: We liked the location of this RV park, which is in the heart of Williams. In addition to standard RV park features (full hookups, showers, etc.) they have a nice playground for kids.
