10 Best Winter Activities in Williams, AZ
Snow, trains, elk, and Route 66 charm—winter in Williams, AZ, is low-key magical, and here’s how to enjoy it to the fullest.
Winter in Williams, AZ, is the exact opposite of huddling indoors waiting for spring, and it's all about the magic of the season. You can spot elk strolling around like they're the local royalty while the snow keeps falling. You can also ride a train, go skiing (play in the snow—whatever floats your boat!), or grab a bite to eat at one of the many local eateries. It is perfect for warming up after a long day out in the cold. In this blog, we will explore the 10 best winter activities in Williams, AZ. Let’s go!
Experience the Polar Express Train Ride:
The Polar Express Train chugs out of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot in Williams, Arizona. Departures are scheduled on specific dates in November and December, just as they are every year. This train ride was inspired by that holiday book and movie that everyone loves. The ride itself is a couple of hours round trip, but hey, you'll want to savor every minute of it. To keep the chill off, passengers get to enjoy warm hot chocolate and cookies on board. And to really bring the story to life, actors in full costume reenact scenes from The Polar Express. Better yet, the big man himself, “Santa Claus,” makes the rounds on the train so the little ones can give him a high-five or a hug.
Visit the Local Christmas Markets:
Every year in November and December, Williams, Arizona, pulls out all the stops with a series of Christmas markets. You'll find all sorts of goodies on sale, from handmade crafts, ornaments, and gifts that make perfect presents. The markets set up shop in the heart of Williams, right along historic Route 66, no less. Apart from all the great shopping, visitors can grab some tasty treats like fresh-baked cookies and fudge. Some markets also feature live music to get everyone in the mood for the holidays. And the best part? Most of the markets are free to get into.
Take a Holiday Lights Tour:
If you're in Williams, Arizona, in late November, you've got the chance to take in some of the most amazing holiday light displays in the area. You can either join a guided tour or just wing it and drive yourself around. Some tours will also take you to local parks that go all out at Christmas. The lights go on after dark, so plan to get there a bit after sunset to see them at their best. The whole shebang usually lasts anywhere from an hour to two. Expect all sorts of decorations, some of which even have animated displays, which are always fun for the kids.
Go Sledding in the Mountains:
If you're in Williams, Arizona, and it's snowing, you've got a real treat waiting for you: sledding in the nearby Kaibab National Forest. The snow usually starts falling around late November and keeps coming till February. But where to go? Many folks swear by the gentle slopes near Mount Elden, perfect for beginners. If you're a bit more adventurous, there are steeper hills that'll get your adrenaline pumping. Just don't forget your sled, and you're on your own for that one. It's also cold, so make sure you've got the right gear. The good news is: it's free!
Visit the Grand Canyon in the Snow:
If you're in the area from December to February, be sure to stop by the Grand Canyon Village, which has all the visitor services and restrooms you'll need. Parking is easy at the major viewpoints. If you're an avid hiker, don't worry, as some trails are still open to you if you've got the right gear. And let's be honest, the snow just makes the whole place look even more amazing. You'll also have a hard time missing the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, still running in the winter, and even shuttle buses will be taking folks to the best viewing points along the rim. Just keep an eye out for wildlife like elk; they might just pop out of the snow to say hi.
Go Ice Skating at the Outdoor Rink:
Williams, Arizona, gets its own outdoor ice skating rink going every winter, and it's open from late November right through to February. You can rent skates right on the spot, so don't worry about needing your own. They really keep that rink surface looking shipshape, and it's regularly maintained to make sure it's a safe place to be. Plus, they have lights so you can get on a skate at night, too. They even play some fun Christmas tunes while you're on the rink. Tickets are required to get in, but they do sometimes hold fun holiday events there, too.
Bearizona Wildlife Park:
Bearizona Wildlife Park is just a short drive from Williams, Arizona, and it's a real treat for anyone who loves animals. The park itself is a whopping 160 acres in size, and you get to drive right through it in your own vehicle, and the animals just roam around the place as they own it. They've got loads of animals, like bison, bears, and wolves, all living in their natural habitats. There's also a walk-through section called Fort Bearizona, where the smaller animals like bobcats and otters live. They even put on bird flight demos for you, which is always a real hoot.
Grand Canyon Railway Depot:
The Grand Canyon Railway Depot is right in the middle of downtown Williams, Arizona, and it's been around since 1901. These days, it's where you catch the train to the Grand Canyon South Rim. It's an old historic building, but they've kept it looking just as it would have back in the day. Inside, you can find ticket counters and waiting areas, and even a little museum to tell you all about the history of the railways. The trains run all through the main season, and in December, they even do a Polar Express train, which is a hoot.
Explore Historic Route 66:
If you ever find yourself in Williams, Arizona, then make sure you head down to the old Historic Route 66. This route is just a treasure trove for anyone who loves old cars and old buildings. It has loads of shops, diners, and old motels, all just as they were when Route 66 was the main road across America. You can just walk along the front of the shops and look at all the fun old signs and decorations. There are loads of places to stop and eat, like grabbing a great burger and milkshake at one of the roadside diners. Take a bit of Route 66 back home, and you will love to collect great souvenirs from the variety of shops, making it among the best Williams AZ winter things to do!
Grand Canyon Deer Farm:
The Grand Canyon Deer Farm is just a short drive from Williams, Arizona, and it's a really cute little place to visit. The farm itself is about 10 acres in size, and you can walk around the paths and meet all the deer. The farm is home to loads of other animals, too, like wallabies, llamas, peacocks, and even bison. They do all sorts of fun animal activities, and they even have seasonal events for all the holidays. It opened in 1969, and it's still a great place to visit with the family.
In a nutshell, winter in Williams, Arizona, covers the town in snow and makes it look peaceful. It’s a quiet, cozy place to enjoy the season.
Don’t miss out on a magical winter in Arizona!
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