Explore Williams, Arizona, in an RVshare RV Rental
Founded in 1881, the town of Williams was named for its founder, William Sherley "Old Bill" Williams. He was a famous trader, scout, mountain man, and trapper who frequented the area. You can find a statue of Old Bill in Monument Park on the western side of the city as well as another tribute to the city's founder in the form of a large mountain named Bill Williams Mountain. Williams was officially incorporated as a city in 1901. As the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, Williams is a city that thrives on tourism. There are many outdoor recreational activities to enjoy, such as fishing in the lake or hiking up Bill Williams Mountain. During the colder months, Williams is a winter paradise with its cross-country ski trails and alpine ski areas. The weather provides four seasons and ample opportunities to spot some of the native wildlife in the area.
Williams is known for its ties to Route 66. When talks of bypassing the historic road initially surfaced, the city of Williams filed a lawsuit. As a result, it was the last city to have a designated stretch of Route 66, until 1984. The following year, Route 66 was officially decommissioned in the United States. You can still see parts of the road if you travel to the preserved Main Street section in the Historic Downtown District. The district covers over six city blocks, and it showcases a blend of the historic Mother Road and the city's Old West heritage. With its historical roots, the Williams Business District and Urban Route 66 were added to the National Register of Historic Places.
There are several parks to visit throughout the area. At the Williams Aquatic Center, visitors and locals can enjoy the seasonal indoor swimming pool. This swimming pool is usually open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Recreation Center & Skate Park is home to plenty of activities geared to younger visitors, and it even features an indoor skate park known as The Shed. Cureton Park is home to a basketball court, picnic areas, and baseball fields. More recreational opportunities can be found at Buckskinner Park, which even has a lake that's stocked on a regular basis. Hikers will also want to hit the trailhead at this spot. Another great point is Cataract Lake County Park with its playgrounds, barbecue pits, and fully stocked lake. Don't forget to stop by the Dogtown Reservoir to fish for trout, sunfish, catfish, and bass. If that isn't enough, the city also maintains its own rodeo facility, which is the home of the annual Williams Reunion Rodeo.
Discover Nearby Towns and Cities
Flagstaff, Arizona - Flagstaff is the ideal spot for an outdoor adventure. It's surrounded by mountains, forests, and other natural wonders. This Arizona town is packed full of activities that will rejuvenate the mind and soul.
Seligman, Arizona - Seligman is a historic town that has blended its roots with the Old West and the Mother Road. The town has revitalized itself to showcase its Americana charm to visitors from all over the world.
Winslow, Arizona - Winslow might be known for its mention in "Take It Easy" by The Eagles, but there's more to the town than that. This city is another important stop on Route 66, and it's a popular location with both motorists and motorcyclists.
Best National Parks Near Williams, Arizona
Arizona is home to one of the most famous national parks in the country: Grand Canyon National Park. This national park covers over 1.2 million acres, and it hosts the famous namesake canyon. Visitors can take a backpacking adventure down to the canyon or just take a look over the edge of the canyon rim.
While visiting Williams, make a stop at Petrified Forest National Park. This park covers several miles of fossilized wood, but there's plenty more to see at this location. Petrified Forest National Park also features several petroglyphs and paleontological exhibits; in fact, there are about 600 archaeological sites located within the park. Animal lovers might get a chance to see pronghorns, coyotes, and bobcats roaming through this forest.
Another gem in Arizona is the Saguaro National Park. This national park is the best place to view the stunning saguaro cacti in the Sonoran Desert. When you're there, make sure to prepare for the hot and dry weather.
Popular State Parks Near Williams, Arizona
You can find a couple of state parks within an hour's drive from Williams, and Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is one such fascinating place to visit. The duplex-style mansion was built in 1904. It features indoor plumbing, electricity, and heating, amenities that were rare at the time.
Originally an apple orchard, Slide Rock State Park is another excellent state park. Visitors can enjoy the waters in Oak Creek or pick apples from the orchards. Plus, there are several hiking trails to explore.
Must-See Monuments and Landmarks Near Williams, Arizona
There are some Arizona landmarks both inside and outside of the city. Monument Park is nestled between Route 66 and surrounded by trees. This park is home to a couple of monuments dedicated to the city's founders and war veterans. Railroad enthusiasts will want to visit the Grand Canyon Railway. On most days, visitors can take a ride in the restored rail cars while getting serenaded by musicians and hearing old cowboy tails.
Events Near Williams, Arizona
Annual Historic Route 66 Car Show - This upcoming event is a must-see for car enthusiasts, and it takes place every June.
Cowpunchers Reunion Rodeo - Visitors and locals have the opportunity to check out the best rodeo riders in the state.
Patriot Day Parade - Celebrate America's pride with a parade hosted by the city.
Popular POI Activities Near Williams, Arizona
Devil's Bridge Trail - This moderate hiking trail takes visitors through a field of spectacular wildflowers.
Kaibab National Forest - Experience Arizona’s diverse landscape and ecosystem along with a breathtaking view of the Grand Canyon.
Bill Williams River - This short river winds through the Alamo River to the Buckskin Mountains.
RVshare’s Top Picks for Nearby RV Parks and Campgrounds
This area provides some wonderful places to park your RV for the night. The Grand Canyon Railway RV Park is only two blocks from the downtown section of Williams. All RV sites feature WiFi access, high-definition digital TVs, and plenty of space to spread out for the night. Another great spot is Railside RV Ranch. This pet-friendly location offers plenty of amenities, such as spacious pull-through lots, free Wi-Fi, and on-site propane.
Best RV Dump Stations Near Williams, Arizona
If you're searching for Arizona dump stations near Williams, there are a few options where you can clean out your tanks. At Ash Fork Grand Canyon RV Park, the dump station facilities are open throughout the year. There is a nominal fee to use the station. The 76 Gas Station is a big rig-friendly dump station; however, you'll have to pay $10 to use these facilities.
Popular RV Storage Facilities Near Williams, Arizona
Williams is home to several RV storage facilities where you can park the camper in a safe location. Williams Grand Canyon RV Storage offers a space for your rig and belongings. Lone Elk RV Storage is another fantastic choice that can accommodate rigs of every size.
