15 Things to do at the Grand Canyon with Kids can help you have a fun cheap National Parks trip with Kids. There are many fun things to do while enjoying nature, the beach, and of course the wild horses. National Parks have a wonderful Junior Rangers Program that provides educational activities within the Park. National Parks also offer Kid-Friendly Hikes and many more activities. America the Beautiful National Park Pass provides entrance to National Parks around the country for a full year at one low price. Fourth Graders can get a free pass through every kid in a park program.
1. Check out the Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is a great resource. It usually has maps and a Ranger available to answer questions. Grand Canyon National Park has several visitors center each of which offers specific information regarding the area of the park they are located in.
2. Participate in the Junior Rangers Program
While you are at the Visitors Center ask them about their Junior Rangers Program. The Junior Rangers Program is an educational program for all ages. Complete select activities in a booklet and earn a Junior Rangers Badge.
3. Go for a Hike
Of course, there are many places to hike in our national parks. While right Angel Trail is one of the most popular hikes at the Grand Canyon, there are plenty of shorter more kid-friendly hikes. Taking a stroll around the rim is also a lot of fun and provides great views.
4. Get on the water
Bring your kayaks, and paddleboards, or rent a boat. If it’s too cold to get in the water you can always get on the water for some fun. We love bringing our inflatable kayaks and paddleboard when we travel. While we love our inflatables The Grand Canyon is not a place we would use them. You can, however, book a water rafting tour.
5. Learn About History
Through a variety of presentation materials, you can learn about the history of our nation at Yellowstone National Park. Find out How The Grand Canyon National Park was formed and how it’s changed over time. Learn about the earliest inhabitants.
6. Look for Wildlife
Wildlife is all around us and the National Park system is a great way to preserve their homes. You can often spot wildlife in many of the national parks. There are a lot of elk in the park and probably the easiest animal to spot. We saw them early morning, in the evening, and at the Visitor Center. There’s a chance you could see bears
7. Learn About Natural History and Science
There is so much to learn at National Parks especially Natural history. It’s so interesting to understand how the various landscapes in our country were formed and how they ultimately lead to what the land looks like today.
8. Have a Picnic
Having a picnic can be a lot of fun. It can also save you from having to wait in long lines at the limited dining options within a Large National Park. You can also add some games to your picnic or spend time talking about what you have done or the wonderful view you have.
9. Go For a Drive
One of the easiest ways to see what a National Park has to offer is to drive through it. Of course along the way you probably want to stop at some scenic points, for a hike, or even to look for animals.
10. Take in the Views
Some of the most amazing views in the country are in our National Parks. Make sure to snap a few selfies too. You can also have fun taking some perspective shots that make fantasy look like reality.
11. Stamp your Passport
Get a Passport Stamp. No, I do not mean your International Passport, although we have seen people do this and you should absolutely NOT do that. You can purchase a National Parks Passport in most gift shops. Then as you travel throughout the country to various National Parks you can stamp yourself. The National Park Stamps are usually available in the Visitors Center.
12. Enjoy the Museum
Many National Park Sites have small museum that houses artifacts and information about the Area. The small museums are usually within the visitors center. However, at the Grand Canyon, the Yavapai Geology Museum and Kolb Studio are separate buildings you can visit.
13. Watch the Sunset
Many people arrive at the Canyon early in the morning to get a head start on the crowds. They often leave the park for dinner or head to one of the park’s restaurants for dinner. The evenings are often fairly quiet and the perfect time to enjoy a walk around the rim and watch the sunset.
14. Attend a Ranger Lead Program
Some National Park Sites offer Ranger lead Programs. This is a great chance to get in-depth information and also ask questions. Ranger lead programs including Ranger Talks are available at the Grand Canyon.
15. Play National Park Bingo
You can make your own or buy National Park Bing Cards. As you travel through the park you can check off the things you see and whoever gets Bingo first wins.
15 Things to do at the Grand Canyon with Kids
These 15 Things to do at the Grand Canyon with Kids are ways to have a fun-filled adventure at The Grand Canyon National Park with Kids.
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