The El Tovar Hotel occupies one of the most dramatic settings of any national park lodge. Perched on a hilltop just steps from the South Rim, it is by far the most elegant lodging to be found in Grand Canyon Village.
Named for a Spanish explorer, El Tovar was considered one of the West's most elegant hotels when it was built by the Santa Fe Railroad in 1905. Part European villa and part American hunting lodge (trophy heads still hang in the lobby), it's still considered an architectural masterpiece.
Visitors are welcomed by a massive two-story timbered lobby which leads to the spacious dining room. The restaurant serves three elegant meals a day, though the dress code and atmosphere are relaxed. After dinner, guests may want to take in the view of the canyon from the lounge or check out the gift shop. Morning coffee and tea are served on the mezzanine.
Always well maintained, El Tovar was recently renovated and its 78 guest rooms and suites were given a complete makeover. All rooms have a full bath, telephone and TV. Most, however, do not have canyon views and some of the standard rooms are smaller than many families might expect. Deluxe rooms offer more space (and beds) and suites are roomier yet--a few feature balconies with canyon views.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.
