These institutional-looking lodges, built in the 1960s, sit steps away from the canyon rim, the historic charms of El Tovar, and the Bright Angel Trail. Location, location, location! Though amazingly ugly on the outside, inside the rooms are bright, modern and comfortable, and canyonside rooms offer fantastic views of the Rim Trail and canyon beyond.
If staying at Kachina, check-in at El Tovar; if staying at Thunderbird, check in at Bright Angel Lodge.