Reviews of Desert View Watchtower (Tourist Attraction)

Jessica Wing

The Desert View Watchtower is a great place to get a quick aerial view of the Grand Canyon, especially if you have kids. You can climb to the top of the Watchtower to get the full effect, or choose one of the two lower floors. There are also benches outside to sit, and convenient parking with easy access to hiking trails if you're more ambitious than a quick tourist view. There is also a gift shop with plenty of Grand Canyon souvenirs and native jewelry for sale, as well as refreshments and a water bottle refill station. There are bathrooms on site, as well. I really appreciated this as a mother of two young children- it provides an easy way to expose little kiddos to the beauty and glory of this natural wonder without having to do too much hiking. Super glad that we came.

sai naian

You can get some beautiful views of the Grand Canyon from here. This place also has some nice Native Indian art on the walls of the tower.

Jim McCullough

Breath-taking view. Beautiful decorative design inside, unique staircase to 4 levels plenty of windows all around to look out telescopes to view far away scenes

Donna Alexander

All I can say is breathtaking! The Grand Canyon is so immense, the vivid colors in the rock, and beauty belong words! You must go there, it's one of those once in a lifetime experiences! They also have a concessions area. Enjoy but stay away from the edge.

Siddhi Shrivastav

Some website suggested this place for the sunset. I was impressed by the views. Do visit!

Christina Gatti

The views are amazing. It was not too crowded today. There is a little store and deli to grab a quick bite to eat. Bathrooms are clean. The hike down to the watchtower is fairly easy on a nice paved path.

Michael McDonald

Really sweet tower and then to find out what it really was and how it was used. Well that is something for you to find out. A++++

Rick Prescott

I recommend starting here and working you way west stopping at each outlook. End at the visitor center to finish up the day.

Gwenevere Bridge

If you have never been to the Grand Canyon you must ask yourself why. No photo can do this place justice. It will steal your breath with it's beauty. I've been here 100s of times in the last 40 years and i've never been disappointed. Awestruck every single time. It punches me in the heart. Some of my best memories are here.

Jason Osterman

The view from this point is amazing. Place was clean, and stunning. This was my favorite part of the whole trip. Loved it. Spent more time here then the others.

Steve Tishko

It's a great place to get a different perspective of the canyon, although it can be crowded. The welcome center is filled with maps, diagrams, and more information than you could possibly ask. There's a gift shop with native American items and the usual kitsch. Very good ice cream stand. Fuel also available.

Ryan Korecki

Nice view of the canyon. Great spot if you want local tribe collectables. Has a coffee and ice cream shop on sight, and is near the only gas station in the area.

Laura Johnson

A great way to see the Grand Canyon with family. The rangers are very helpful. I highly suggest doing the junior ranger program if you have children. Entering on the desert view side of the Grand Canyon had less traffic. A peaceful place with gift shop, restrooms, and restaurant.

Tinu Lukose

This place is the first view point from east entry point of the Grand canyon south rim. From here onwards starts the desert view drive, which is very beautiful. You can have a quick glimpse of the canyon, if you drive from this entry point towards west. Alternatively, you can also drive from the Grand canyon visitor center at the Mather point (entry from the Tusayan side). But these side entry is usually busy, especially at the morning.

Joshua Brockwell

Wasn't expecting this place to be there. It was a nice surprise to have some place to explore with the kids, and the views were great! Little bit of history and culture to put the amazing landscape in perspective.

Levi Winans

This was the first stop coming into the grand canyon. Very cool place for awesome views, pictures and experience. The lookout tower is awesome. Lots of steep stairs so be mindful of you want to peek through the higher elevated windows. There are some site glasses allowing you to view the depths of the grand canyon and see parts of the river below. The camping grounds were nice but full. Have to get there early to swipe a spot when it becomes vacant.

Donald Gallimore

This was our first stop coming in to the park using the East Gate. Great vista with the history of the tower thrown in. This site has grocery, sandwich shop, restrooms, adult beverages, information on the park and programs.

JB Snyder

It's beautiful! This is where I got my first ever view of The Canyon!

Luna Salaver

Magnificent views on the Grand Canyon. There is no fee to go into the Watch Tower. You need to walk up about 87 stairs to get to the very top but it's worth to peek at the view through the windows. If you don't like to walk up that many stairs there's also the observation deck which is another great space to admire the Grand Canyon. There is a little market/deli and ice cream counter where you can get a refreshing snack.

Jessica Hash

I would really recommend spending the whole day in the national park. We started here and then drove to a few different overlook points and had a really good day!

Jim Scherzer

This is such a rich historical site. Just great to soak in the views and info. You must walk to the top and enjoy each level.

Simon Waterman

If you've driven the south rim of the Grand Canyon definitely head to the watchtower. Adds stunning views of the grand canyon from different levels. It also has a gift shop and coffee shop nearby. So worth a visit if your here!!

M kura

Great views. The gift shop also offers ice cream in waffle cones, and coffee.

Bernardo Suárez

Incredible spot to see the Grand Canyon from. I would really recommend spending the whole day in the national park. We started here and then drove to a few different overlook points and had a really good day!

kirollos Gerges

One of the best views to behold in the general area! This is a very serene place but could get busy with tourists. But an amazing place to be nonetheless. Has shops, ice cream and food options but nobody really comes there for that. A must visit if in the area!

Max Minardi

This is one of the best spots & Grand Canyon. Everyone goes to the lookout right after the gate. This place has less people better views & food, beer, wine & gifts & a elevated view of the Canyon. Plus if you use the east exit/entrance you get so many great views on your way in or out.

U. Zak S.

Amazing views, nice tower, decorated with Native American / Indian art. Gift shop at the base. Steep climb up to the top of the tower. Restrooms and a cafe nearby. Also there is a gas station and campgrounds within walking distance. Plenty if parking space.

Judy Sun

At the edge of Grand Canyon, first lookout on the south rim, definitely worth a stop! There's a tower, great views of the Canyon, small gift shop, store with ice cream. Access is free outside of the $35 fee to enter the national park.

Arjen Dijk

Great view over the canyon... but you're not the only one. Enough parking places and a restaurant

robert bolanos

Loved visiting the Grand Canyon, don't limit your visit to the regular spots. Finish your visit at the Desert View Watchtower for more spectacular views of the GC. Can't wait to go back again soon. Don't forget to bring plenty of cold beverages during your visit. It get hot throughout the day. Enjoy.

Dan Durig

You don't want to miss this one. Lots of great views. The tower is designed to look old back in the 30s but really is well done. The various levels don't offer a ton of different viewpoints but there is something fun about climbing a tower over a canyon. This is likely the best view of the river you will get from the rim. Inside is unique as well. There is food and drinks available and large clean restrooms.

Adam Martinez

So this is one of the place we always stop at when we are leaving the Grand Canyon. It's a little less crowded and has great views still. It has a memorial for a plane accident that occured well above it back in the 50's where to planes collided and sadly there was no survivors. For a lot of people they have never experienced the Grand Canyon. I think that everyone that is able to make it there should definitely spend a day there by going to as many views as they can. I think that it would be cool to stay up at the hotel for a few days so it would be easier to see the different views and not have to rush and you could enjoy more. After seeing all those it would be cool to go up to the north rim and see the views from that side. Other than that have fun, enjoy, learn and be safe.

Ray's Random

A great place to to see mother nature at it's finest. A bucketlist check off, for sure. The drive in from Cameron on Highway 64 on my motorcycle was great. Twisty winding road, and great views.

Janette O'keefe

If you only have a short time at The Canyon, this is a great point to view it from. Facilities are fine, too.

Rachelle Calida

I was pleasantly surprised that we could climb the tower. Views were gorgeous. Story was sad but must be remembered.

Elizabeth Ontis

Beautiful views, beautiful architectural essay on architecture of the Four Corners region, amazing murals.

Leon Tkach

Great view point of the Grand Canyon. We were there during sunset and it was breathtaking. You can walk a bit down the ridge to get away from the crowds.

Marci Reece

Great views! You can climb the watch tower and look it the windows, but I wish they were open so we didn't have to take pictures through the glass. Still would recommend it lot of great photo opportunities.

Jackie Henning

How do you rate the Grand Canyon? How do you review something so beyond words? I will say that my favorite viewing point was the Desert Tower view. We stayed on the south and from this point you can see the river the best.

Antonio Carlos Ribeiro Neto

You need walk to 20 min to see this point. But is very beautifull.

Cassidy Acuff Williams

Stop by here! Fantastic views of the Colorado River. Good info on all the signs. The Tower is amazing. We also had great coffee and the kids went bananas over the ice cream great for groups

Chip T

Spectacular scenic view of the Grand Canyon. Great ancient artifacts inside. It really gives insight about the history of the inhabitants of that area. It’s definitely recommended to visit this when you go to the Grand Canyon. It’s one of the first or last stops in that area of the Grand Canyon.

steve cell

Very interesting. Very crowded. Elk sighting. Food is available. Nice gift shop. Short walk from parking lot.

Dillon Slaten

This place is awesome! Go up in the watchtower for the best view! And There's a nice little store in the tower!

Byron Brower

Great place to get a view of the Gran Canyon if you enter from the East side near Cameron. There were a lot of people as this was during mother's day weekend so it was expected. You should read the posts with history details, your the inside of the Watchtower, and walk around to take in the views of the canyon. This by far is the most attractive view point to view the canyon... It would be better if you go during the down season / less touristy.

Terry G.

Love the watch tower. Had so much fun with my daughter on her school field trip!

Ashley Bucaro

Beautiful experience. We enjoyed this view from the tower better than the view from the main entrance. So glad we decided to stop here. There is a coffee and ice cream store with retail options too. Family friendly with fences to guard from falling off the ledge.

Ryland Murphy

Different then anything else you'll see. The view goes for miles which is breathtaking and the ancient native American paintings embellishing the walls and ceilings are stunning.

david innes

Great views, also gas station, post office, toilets(few stops along the rim have them)

Daniel Garcia

Great spot in the Grand Canyon park! Worth the long drive because it's less crowded on the East side and the watchtower is great! Easily some of the best views of the entire Canyon.

Natalia K

Totally loved it. Be prepared to pay a fee for the entrance, but the park and the tower were great. And look at the glass that makes colors more bright!

Steve Mills

The east entrance of the Grand Canyon is beautiful and less busy then the main south rim center. The watchtower has some great views and history to enjoy. Take your time and don't rush to the popular areas of the canyon. You'll enjoy it even more.

mary cunniff

Amazing view of the Canyon!! You can see the river really well at this location. Bring quarters for the viewing telescope!!

MIKE M

This is where we can only see the Colorado River with Grand Canyon‼︎ It's so wonderful spot‼︎

Bruce Vance

Incredible views. Easy 1/4 mile black top covered path. Totally worth the stop.. You'll stay longer than you planned for!

Sarah Shunn

This is such a cool historical building!! It's a short walk from the parking lot, but definitely worth it... Even in the summer heat! There's a little spot to grab snacks on the way.

Adrian Campos

Great views. Could get a bit crowded so get there early. Also there is a mini Mart near by to pick up something you need.

Karen Cluff

We loved the watch tower! The view from the top was great! Food at the market was very well priced and their merchandise was also the best prices we saw. Definitely stop to check it out!

Cameron Smith

Just breathtaking to view canyon from the top of the tower! I would suggest to anyone that wants to see what this wonderful national treasure has to offer! Take a long look!

Candice Miller

This is a great spot to check out. You can walk up three flights of stairs and look out onto the canyon. They have a store with refreshments and Native American crafts for sale.

Casi King

Beautiful views from this tower overlooking the Grand Canyon's southern rim. Climbing the tower is really pressure-free since there are landings after every section. You don't have to climb all at once. But it's certainly worth the climb for the 360 degree view from the top and the artwork within the tower is stunning - created by a Hopi artist. I'd definitely recommend if you get the opportunity.

Matthew Joyce Entertainment

If you’re coming to see the Grand Canyon you must see the view from the watchtower. The watchtower is a cool piece of architecture created by a female artist. The only drawback is the countless number of people taking selfies all over the place. We went on a Sunday so maybe that was part of the problem. Other than that it’s worth the visit.

Kristin Hargrove

You must go see the sunset from this point! I will never forget it. It will leave you in awe

Ralf Wilkowski

The grand canyon doesn't disappoint... Ever! The more time one spends there, the more wonders one will witness. Thunderstorms during the summer, snow in the winter, spectacular sunsets and sunrises, as well as dumb people, doing dumb things to set themselves apart. GC has it all. Worth every minute you plan to spend there!

Casey Forman

Now it is the Grand canyon so it's a beautiful sight and completely indescribable so the three stars is not related to the Grand canyon. The watch tower is nice and it's a great view, however, in comparison to some of the lookout points further down the road I don't feel like it's as good. The parking is further away and the view is not as good as some of the lookout points. My personal favorite lookout points were Navajo point and Moran point. The parking was close and the view was amazing. Again, it's all up to preferences and opinions, these are just mine.

Jennifer Haney

So beautiful, but very little safety. I would never bring small children here. There are many places where the cliff just ends with no warning or guardrails.

Shawn Lord

Best trip. So glad we went with the smaller your group Hide a great guide.

Stacy Assaf

The views from this point on the southern rim are indescribably beautiful. Try to plan to end your Grand Canyon day at this spot and watch the sun set. The play of the light on the multi hued rocks at dusk is a spectacular show! Things of note: 1. The NPS does a great job of keeping longer hours during the summer months so that tourists can grab some dinner, ice cream, or souvenirs after sunset at Desert View Watchtower. In the winter, however, things close earlier. 2. There are multiple wildlife caution signs along the roads in GCNP; they are all important. The animals have no problem waltzing out in front of your vehicle if the mood strikes them. Lower speeds are crucial. 3. Get gas in Flagstaff or Williams. Once you pass these points, gas stations raise prices. By the time visitors arrive in the park and drive all the way to desert tower they are often low on gas and the only gas station is a dollar to two dollars higher than in Flagstaff or Williams. 4. This particular stop has paved access all the way to the Canyon Rim. It is wheelchair and stroller friendly, however the Watchtower itself is not.

sagar shah

It is a must visit place. Its very close to the easy entrance of the park. The view is great. This place closes at 6:30. So try to be there on time. Even if you are late, you won't be able to go inside the tower but you can still see the canyon

Munish Prabhakar

Very beautiful and scenic view stop this very historical watch tower. You can see The Grand canyon on one side, and long swathes of desert on the other side. Really breathtaking scenario with historical perspective. Must visit for Sunset during the visit to Grand canyon to watch changing colour.

April H

Great spot to see the Grand Canyon. Only downfall is parking isn’t near the scenic spot but it’s not a far walk. Plenty of parking too. I would definitely recommend stopping there especially because there’s a cute shop with souvenirs and a coffee and ice cream bar.

Laschell Crook

There is so much to see in the park, you need a week. Each view is unique and beautiful

Bob Koby

If you're entering the east side of the park or want that last look... This is totally worth it. Amazing views. Really nice area/amenities. Can't get much better than a watch tower for the kids. You can go to the top and see the view from inside the top.

Drew Johnson

My favorite view of the canyon! Plenty of parking, good restrooms, and an AMAZING view (of course).

George Latham

One of the best places to see in America, capture the beauty and splendor, meditate and most of all, LEAVE YOUR DRAMA BEHIND. If not, then this is NOT a place to bring your baggage from home. Chill the heck out and capture the peace and tranquility this place has to offer.

BJ Hart

This was really cool! The view from the bottom was spectacular as you could see the river flowing through the canyon. It is quite a bit of stairs to get to the top of the watchtower, and pretty narrow at that, but all of the artwork on the walls was breathtaking.

Dustin Schuett

Beautiful views of the Grand Canyon. Easy to access right after the east park entrance. Restrooms, gift shops. Pets are allowed but pavement is hot and dogs get warm very quickly.

Kevin Raine

As good if not better than the visit to the main southern rim site. Love the market place! Incredibly well priced items, only slightly more expensive than an item from your average gas station.

Karen West

This is a must see site at the Grand Canyon. The view here are breath taking, and you are able to get a unique view from up above when you climb up the watch tower.

Trucker Boy

Probably the most popular place to visit in Arizona and one of the busiest places. The desert view area doesn't get near the amount of tourists like the other places to view the canyon. So for me, that makes it the ultimate place to go and see the beauty that is the Grand Canyon.

Rebecca Barnes-Mutini

It was super busy and a bit away from the parking lot. It was cool looking but I ended up not going inside because of the amount of people inside. I had a good view from outside the watch tower though.

Javezzz

It's definitely a hot spot to go so there would be a lot of people. I liked this because of the great scenery it had of the Grand canyon, but there were many people there so you wouldn't be able to peek over the railing sometimes.

Colton Bradshaw

This provides your first "real" view of the Grand Canyon after entering the canyon. It is rather crowded depending on the whether but it is very cool to stop here. Would recommend stopping at one of the other point along the way if you want to avoid the crowds or take the Rim Trail to have great views and less people.

Blanca Chan

Ahhhh. What a place. Breathtaking! Words and pictures are not enough to describe the place. The cool breeze, the sound of the cicadas, the dimension and distsnce of the view. I would called this place just magical.

B Pina

Great place to take family. They have camping in spots. They have food and souvenir shop site at watch tower with clean bathrooms. The park pass is good for 5 days. We were able to meet some of the Navajo Indians along the side of the rode make shift shops beautiful jewelry, pottery handmade.

Mike Siegwald

Really the best spot to view everything in my opinion. Small walk and you're there. Great views and lots of ways to take pics from up above or anywhere else

Monica Young

The Grand Canyon is absolutely beautiful! It costs $35 per vehicle and it's definitely worth it, to see the beauty! Words and pictures don't do it any justice. The magnitude of this, blows my mind. The tower you can go up in and view. If you're anywhere close, don't pass up seeing!

Ben Liu

A great viewpoint along the Grand Canyon. The view is mostly the same as other points along the rim, so it might not be stopping at if you’re on a tight schedule. However, the watchtower offers unique photo opportunities. It is a especially beautiful place to view the sunset at Grand Canyon.

Gaurav Borgaonkar

This is one of the best points to see the grand beauty and magnificence of The Grand Canyon. The spot is very good with amazing views of the canyon and is an excellent location for Photography lovers or doing the photo shoots. There is ample parking space available with no additional fees other than the Grand Canyon National Park entry fees and also this is one of the spots which you can reach by car rather than taking one of their buses.

Linda Papagan

Definitely worth seeing. The views are amazing. You can see the Colorado River really well from here. I'd advise you to get there early. It gets really crowded and the staircases are narrow.

Benjamin McVicker

As far as national parks go, grand canyon is one of the most visited in the United States and the world. As far as national parks go the facilities are extremely nice and the staff very willing and helpful. I love visiting GC NP.

John Bozung

Have always loved the Grand Canyon. The watchtower on the south rim is a must. Great views and good shopping especially for Native American items and food available.

vivian lee

Started off in the Grand Canyon park at the entrance closest to the watchtower. Excellent views of the canyon. Kids enjoyed climbing up the watch tower. Washrooms gift shop and food here.

Jeff Smoczyk

Excellent way to enjoy the beauty of the Grand canyon without having to hike or fear for your safety

Kathy Land

More awesome views of the Grand Canyon and the tower was amazing. Beautiful artwork inside.

Martina

This is one of the best and most amazing places I've ever visited. The whole park is amazing, view looks like you painted, not real. Just magical! This is must visit place for all, especially tourists coming from far away and visiting this part of the USA.

Ana Zavala

It was amazing, breath taking. It's worth to do the shuttle buses and tour the best areas.

Carlos Zepeda

Beautiful place, I think it was my favorite stop. The panoramic view it was just incredible. A must is you are touring this area of the Grand Canyon.

Randy McCleary

Great view point. I highly recommend going into the tower and checking every thing out. Look up at the painting on the ceiling and when you reach the top, you can look out at the Canyon and get some gear pictures.

Mindy M

This place is wonderful. The view of the Colorado River and Grand canyon are spectacular, the tower is beautiful, and the stores full of unusual tchotchkes. I particularly enjoyed the demonstration by the knowledgeable Eileen. Her pottery was beautiful and she was a joy to speak with.

leelajeevan reddy

Amazing scenic drive n watch tower offers u spectacular view . Just live in the moment.. the Colorado river cuts adds to the beauty .. food options are not much. And restrooms are tidy . Carry hats, fluids, energy drinks .. u see flies so better to carry bug sparky for kids

Craig Reeder

Beautiful view of the Grand Canyon from this point in the park. Usually very crowded but worth the wait and climb to the top of this iconic tower. The staff and Rangers are great!

Michael Carlin

Beautiful. lovely! I can't believe I never heard of it before! When going to the Grand Canyon the watch tower is an absolute must visit! Spectacular views. Neat history. Awesome for everyone.

Heart

Beautiful overlook. Historic building that is well kept. A short tower you can climb for more views. Small gift shop. Rangers available to answer any questions. Plenty of area around to walk and take in the scenery. Restrooms nearby. Water available. Plenty of parking.

Johnny Agustin

This is a just when visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Make sure to arrive early to see great views. The actual tower closed early. There is no fee to go in.

Greg Moser

The Desert View Watchtower was great! The Watchtower offers spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. Inside the tower you will find a gift shop and stairs leading to multiple level viewing areas. There are native American style paintings throughout the building. The stop also has a deli, ice cream shop, and additional gift shop. It was an amazing experience.

Luke Chang

Great sightseeing spot. Close to a gas station. There were vending machines. Facilities had restrooms. Parking lot was decent size. Gift shop at the bottom of the watch tower. I was hoping to go up the tower but it doesn’t look like that was an option when I stopped by 10/4/19. Stopped to watch the sunset, which I enjoyed. Walk from parking lot to tower was short. The view of the Canyon/tower/sunset was absolutely amazing

Katelynd Richins

Finally made it to the Grand Canyon! The view from this spot was absolutely breathtaking. The kids were troopers climbing all the way up into that watchtower. And the effort was definitely worth it!

Garrett Mondini

Amazing views of the canyon, and the tower is out of this world. Highly recommend taking advantage of the spring water taps near the parking lot!

Paul Landreth-Smith

Just stunning. I went EARLY morning to beat the crowds which was a good idea. So beautiful.

Michael Broadhead

It was a spectacular viewing point. We stayed until the sun set. It was Smoky out but that just added to the brilliant orange color of the sun.

Oleg

Very nice vista for looking over Grand Canyon. Best of all it's free!

Juan Félix Rincon

Incredible views, although the tower is a just a representation. I would have appreciated some more factual and in depth history

Rusty H.

This is a wonderful place to visit if you enjoy enjoy hiking. You don't even have to go far if you don't want to. No matter where you look, the place is absolutely stunning. It's beauty is awe inspiring!

Debbie Lyons

My husband loved it. I loved the gift shop, lol. I even bought some Christmas gifts there and it was June.

Subhadip Ghosh

Not your usual tower. Check out the great views of the canyon especially the multi layered silhouettes at sunset.

Bearded Wonder

Never having the opportunity to really travel when I was younger has turned out to be one of the greatest things to happen to my family and I. We traveled a long way to make it to the grand canyon and taking the climb up this tower made it all worth it, watching my little girls eyes light up at the top is a feeling like none other. Getting to experience something like that together has helped to make a wonderful memory so thank you to the staff and thank you God for creating something of such beauty.

D. Duplichen

Fantastic views with ample parking. This is a must for a GCNP visit. Be prepared for the sun exposure!