Vast natural wonder with layered red rock, sweeping vistas, and hikes
Arizona 86052 Get directions

"A bucket list icon that’s easier to experience in winter, when cancellations at Phantom Ranch—the vintage, cottage-style 1920s cabins and restaurant at the river—are more common. Avid backpackers can often nab last-minute permits to camp at storied Bright Angel Campground too, enjoying sunshine near the Colorado River that’s a shocking 20 degrees warmer than the rim. If you’re not hiking nearly 5,000 vertical feet, take in panoramic views from the South Rim on the family-friendly Rim Trail spanning from South Kaibab to the stone ruins at Hermits Rest." - Emily Pennington
"Already awe-inspiring, the canyon turns magical under a fresh layer of snow on fiery sandstone and surrounding evergreens. Visiting the South Rim in the off-season means hikes like the Bright Angel Trail are blissfully quiet and much more comfortable in cool temperatures, and while the park’s free shuttles run fewer routes in winter, plenty still stop at trailheads and Grand Canyon Village viewpoints." - Sarah L. Stewart Sarah L. Stewart Sarah L. Stewart is a Florida-based freelance magazine writer and editor specializing in travel, recreation, science, and health topics. Her work appears in Travel + Leisure, Outside, Backpacker, The Huffington Post, and other national publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Also in the top five, this Arizona icon scored above 80 and carries a Google rating of 4.8 or higher, reflecting consistently high praise for autumn visits." - Iona Brannon Iona Brannon Iona Brannon is a journalist with a love for food and travel. Her work has appeared in Afar, Bon Appétit, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider, among other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A jaw-dropping national park in Arizona, this natural wonder drops a mile deep and spans 10 miles across." - Lydia Price Lydia Price Lydia Price is a senior engagement editor at Travel + Leisure, where she hosts short-form videos and leads content engagement initiatives. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"I've noticed travelers from around the world come to peer into the Grand Canyon, and it's presented here as one of the 'must-see' U.S. attractions." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines