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During last July’s 5.8 earthquake, 3-year-old Bronwyn told her 1-year-old sister, “We’re going for a wiggle.” READ MORE
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Pass through the Western town of Williams While riding back from the Grand Canyon on a train, we suddenly heard gunshots and looked out the window at three outlaws, riding full speed on horses with bandannas over their faces. I turned to someone and remarked, “There’s one job I’d do for minimum wage.” Recently, our family and friends vacationed in Williams, Ariz., about 45 miles south of the Grand Canyon, and took a former steam train (Grand Canyon Railway) for the 2-hour trip to the national park. There are two ways in which to travel. Either for the day, which puts you at the park for a bare-minimum 3 1/2 hours, or a round-trip ticket that allows you to stay there for an overnight, or more. Warning about the Grand Canyon: It is the most peculiar of national parks for families with very young children. The view from the top is spectacular, but the significant hike down, via mule, to the Colorado River is strenuous and time-consuming (either a full day or an overnighter). With that in mind, you can chart your time there. And, with that in mind, the 3 1/2 hours spent along the South Rim was enough for my 7-year-old twins. Williams itself is a laid-back, Western town that is worth a leisurely stay. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and really gets going in terms of early evening activities and eating spots each evening as the sun sets. It is very much a strolling town with shops that are, for the most part, worth visiting for memorabilia, leather goods and artwork. Also consider the numerous hiking trails near the town, as well as camping opportunities. Check in with the visitors center, described below. IF YOU GO Williams, Ariz. is 400 miles from central Orange County, so expect about a 7-hour drive. Consider the temperatures in the high desert as you plan your car trip. Lodging is open-ended, as in two visits we have not found an extraordinary place. The motels in town are efficient. For gifts (this is the official Route 66 town), go to Twisters and to Colors of the West, both along the main street, which is Route 66. Twisters also has a truly authentic 1950s ice cream parlor. Special events occur in town all the time, including a shootout nightly at 7 p.m. Stop by the extremely efficient visitors center at Railroad Avenue and Grand Canyon Boulevard (800.863.0546). Eat breakfast at the Pine Country Restaurant on 2nd Street at Railroad Avenue. For dinner, eat at Rod’s Steak House along Railroad Avenue. Train to the Grand Canyon: We took the Grand Canyon Railway, which has 1920s-vintage cars. Go to: www.thetrain.com/home.cfm or 800.843.8724; overnight packages also are available. For history and elegance, you might consider the El Tovar Hotel, where Teddy Roosevelt stayed. (The hotel is about a minute’s walk from the train depot; across the street is the worthwhile Hopi House.) About the elevation: Along the South Rim, you are at 7,000 feet. Be aware of light-headedness, and bring layers of clothing. While hiking is best, free shuttle buses move people to several locations, to give them more time to see more and to rest more. For complete information: Go to: www.americanparknetwork.com. There also is a button to hit: “If you only have a day.” |
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