You’re driving toward the Grand Canyon, eyes half-strained from the Arizona sun, and you just need a place that won't break the bank but also doesn't feel like a horror movie set. Honestly, that’s the sweet spot Days Inn Williams AZ tries to hit. It’s sitting right there at 2488 West Route 66, basically the gateway to one of the Seven Natural Wonders.
But here’s the thing. People tend to treat these roadside stays as interchangeable boxes with beds. They aren't. If you’ve ever booked a "budget" spot only to find out the "indoor pool" is actually a lukewarm puddle or the "free breakfast" is a single wrapped muffin, you know the drill.
The Reality of Staying at Days Inn Williams AZ
The first thing you’ll notice is the location. It’s tucked into the edge of the Kaibab National Forest. It feels a bit more "mountain retreat" than "highway motel," which is a nice touch when you're trying to unwind. You've got the pines right there.
Most travelers are here for one of two things: the Grand Canyon Railway or the South Rim itself. The railway is about a 5-minute drive away. If you’re planning to do the Polar Express during the winter or the classic steam engine trek, this is a strategic home base.
Why the "No Elevator" Thing Matters
Listen, if you’re hauling three suitcases and a cooler, pay attention. This is a two-story building. There is no elevator. I’ve seen people get genuinely frustrated at check-in because they were assigned a second-floor room with 50 pounds of gear. If your knees aren't what they used to be, or you’re just tired, ask for a ground-floor room when you book.
The staff is usually pretty chill about it. Anna at the front desk has been called out in recent reviews for being a lifesaver with guest requests. But if the hotel is full, you’re hiking those stairs.
What’s Actually Inside the Rooms?
They recently went through some renovations, so it's not that dingy 1990s carpet vibe you might expect. Most rooms have 50-inch TVs. That’s actually bigger than what you get at some of the high-end boutiques in Flagstaff.
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- The Beds: Surprisingly decent. They use four full-sized pillows on the kings.
- The Tech: WiFi speeds clock in around 50 Mbps. You can actually stream a movie without the dreaded buffering circle.
- The Kitchenette Basics: Every room has a microwave and a fridge. This is huge for families trying to avoid spending $80 on a mediocre diner dinner every night.
There are also Studio Suites. These are the ones with two queen beds and a sofa bed, fitting up to six people. If you’re traveling with a "wolf pack" of kids, this is the move.
The Breakfast Situation
It’s a continental spread, served from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Don't expect a Five-Star brunch.
It’s waffles, scrambled eggs, sausage, and the usual cereal/yogurt lineup. Some folks love it because it’s free and fast; others find the dining area a bit cramped during the 8:00 AM rush. Basically, get there early or be prepared to rub elbows with a lot of strangers in hiking boots.
The Indoor Pool and the "Grand Canyon Dust"
Arizona is dusty. You spend all day hiking the Bright Angel Trail, and you’re going to be covered in a fine layer of red grit. Having an indoor heated pool and a hot tub is a massive perk in the high desert, especially since Williams sits at about 6,700 feet. It gets cold at night.
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A quick heads-up: check the pool condition before you jump in. While most guests find it well-maintained, a few recent travelers in early 2026 mentioned the water clarity can be hit or miss depending on how busy the hotel is.
Bringing Your Dog
Pet owners, this is one of the more friendly spots in town. They allow two pets (dogs or cats) per room.
It’ll cost you $25 per pet, per night.
They keep the pets on the ground floor for easy access to the grassy relief area behind the property. Just don't try to sneak a pet into a suite; those are strictly no-pet zones.
The Logistics: Getting to the Canyon
You’re about 60 miles from the Grand Canyon South Rim. That’s a straight shot up Highway 64.
Is it the closest hotel? No.
Is it the best value for the distance? Usually.
If you stay in Tusayan (the town right at the gate), you’ll often pay double for a room that feels half as nice. By staying at the Days Inn Williams AZ, you’re trading a 60-minute drive for significantly more cash in your pocket for park fees and souvenirs.
Things to Check Before You Book
- EV Charging: They actually have an electric car charging station on-site. Not common for every motel in this price bracket.
- Construction: As of early 2026, they’ve been doing some weekday renovations. It’s mostly cosmetic, but if you’re a light sleeper who likes to nap at noon, keep that in mind.
- Noise: The walls aren't soundproof. You might hear the heater kick on or the family next door getting excited about their 5:00 AM sunrise hike.
The Actionable Verdict: If you want a fancy resort experience, keep looking. But if you want a clean, renovated room with a fridge, a big TV, and a hot waffle before you head to the Grand Canyon, this is a solid bet.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Book a ground-floor room immediately if you have heavy luggage or mobility issues.
- Verify the pet-friendly room availability by calling the desk directly (877-411-3436) if you're bringing a dog, as these rooms fill up first.
- Pack a swimsuit regardless of the season; that indoor hot tub is the only way to survive the leg cramps after a day at the Canyon.
- Hit the breakfast bar at 6:30 AM to beat the crowds and get the best parking spot at the South Rim visitor center.