Just wondering what would be a few of the "not to be missed" sights, nearby, to see after visiting the Grand Canyon next summer?

We are spending two nights at the El Tovar and would like suggestions on the best tours (bus or train) to take in the Park during our stay?

We both need to get in shape for this trip so that we can do some hiking, but probably will want to either take the tours or do a partial drive around the rim of the Grand Canyon.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

The main tourist area of the south rim park is basically a long road and paved walk along part of the canyon rim. There is no public road along the entire rim of the canyon. Buses run along a large part of the road, stopping along the way at major overlook points. There are no trains in the park itself along the canyon, but there is an old-fashioned one which runs into the park from a town near the interstate highway (sorry I forget the name). There aren't many other major sights close to the south rim of the canyon. You could travel to the North Rim for a different perspective, or to the west end which is outside the National Park and is managed by a native American tribe, or to Page (northeast of the park on the Colorado) for a float trip. All these areas are several hours from the south rim. There is a bus from the south rim to Page (it's a day trip for rafting), but I don't think there's one to the other two locations. There are potentially many other major places to see on the way to/from the canyon, but they're not that nearby and you'd have to be more specific about where you're coming from and heading to, and how you're getting around (car?).

There are shuttle buses running various routes at the South Rim. Take a look at the park's official website to see the shuttle map and schedule.
http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/shuttle-buses.htm

Hermit Road is currently under construction but will be completed well before your visit, so you'll have access to pretty much everything via shuttle bus. There's a trail along the rim (appropriately named the Rim Trail) that is relatively level. You can take the shuttle to different viewpoints and then walk along the rim as far as you want (or until you get tired, then get back on the shuttle at the next stop).

If you zoom in on the map at the above link, you can see where El Tovar is in relation to everything else.

It is probably easier to use the shuttles than to try to drive around and find a parking space. I don't think Hermit Road even allows private vehicles in summer, so you must use the shuttle bus on that route. There's a new shuttle bus running all the way to the Watchtower at the East entrance - it's a 50 mile round trip, and the shuttle takes 2.5 hours to complete the loop. But it'll definitely take longer than that as you'll want to get off at different points and take a look around.

If you're flying in from Las Vegas or Phoenix, Sedona is what most people would choose as their destination for the rest of your trip.

Take a helicopter tour. It is a great way to see the Canyon.

also get up early for the sunrise bus tour provided in the park. You can sign up for it at the concierge desk at El Tovar.

Ach!! I'm in that age bracket but have never thought of myself as a "senior"!! Maybe I'm living in denial (to this day I throw away anything I get from AARP.) We still hope to make the hike to the bottom, stay overnight, then hike out the next day. We've been 3 times, but never had time to get to the bottom.

Each of our trips has been over Thanksgiving, and at that time (winter operations) you can drive yourself around the rim. Outside of winter hours, you can walk the rim trail or do the buses. Get ready by doing long walks in your neighborhoods, building up to a good pace of 15 minute miles if possible. If you have access to a gym, get on the treadmill and crank up the incline. There still may be issues because of the altitude, but just take your time and go at your pace. (We were going from sea level living in FL and noticed the elevation changes.)

I would recommend you go down at least a little of the Bright Angel trail. It is not difficult hiking and your perspective of the canyon changes dramatically, even just a short ways down. Our last, a couple of years ago, and longest hike so far, was about 8 hours, to Plateau Point and back. You can do any amount you want though on Bright Angel. Even 20 minutes down will entirely change your view and experience.

As far as other things to do, if you are flying into Phoenix, I would definitely stop in Sedona, either going or coming. The surrounding formations are awesome. Take the route up through Oak Creek Canyon for more gorgeous scenery.

Another possible side trip would be to Monument Valley. That would mean another overnight, but it too is well worth seeing.

Enjoy your trip...I think you'll love the Grand Canyon!

Purchase an America the Beautiful Senior Pass at your first national park or monument. Cost is $10 & is good for life. This allows admission to you and anyone in vehicle with you to any national facility charging admission fee.

Remember you will be in the high desert and can get sunburn and dehydrate more easily than lower elevations.

Take advantage of the ranger led hikes they are usually very informative.

Hi, I'm 61 and I've been to El Tovar twice. Wonderful place, Grand Canyon a religious experience! If you've rented a car nearby places are 4-corners, Mesa Verde (unique in all the world) and Monument Valley will have you saying I've been here before if you've ever seen John Wayne/John Ford movies. Stay with the Navahoe on the desert floor in their hogans.

Any effort that you make to get into shape for hiking will be well rewarded. The level walks along th erim are nice, but hiking down into the canyon, even a half-mile or so, takes you into a different world.

OO gave you some great suggestions.

One of our favortite things to do when staying at El Tovar is to rise early, grab a cup of the free coffee and tea that they put out on the mezzanine (at 7:00 am I believe) and head outside to enjoy the sunrise and watch the shadows drop down the canyon walls.

I gave my parents for their anniversay the tour from Vegas with airplane/helicopter/float/bbq lunch, that Canyonwren is refering to. They thoroughly enjoyed it.

If you don't do that do consider a helicopter tour.