Hi I am trying to plan tri for March for 2008. El Tovar has a suite that would accomodate 5 of us...no view. Should I take it? or rather keep the reservation? Is it worth staying there with no view? Only staying 1 night. Driving up from sedona.
Thanks

You're most likely going to be outside for sunset, and either sleeping or outside for sunrise, right? If that's the case, then it doesn't really matter if you have a view for that one night because you wouldn't be able to see anything anyway.

what is your other option? I would definitely stay on the rim, view or not. its nice to be able to stroll out of your room and see the canyon. But if you have an option for Kachina or one of the other rim lodges instead of El Tovar that's fine too.

We stayed at Maswik, which was fine. But the Rim would have been better.

We stayed at the El Tovar and I don't think there is a view (or at least a good one) from any of the rooms except the ones at the very end. I, also, would definitely stay on the rim -- view or not.

I'm a real nut for a room with a spectacular view IF there is a balcony or if the windows are huge so you can sit and really enjoy the view. The idea of being able to walk over and look out a window to see the view, doesn't mean much to me. In that case, I'd probably rather be up in the main lobby or verandah really enjoying the view.

In any case, I'd go for the El Tovar, regardless.

The view is not an important consideration, because you will most likely be enjoying the view from outside. We have had rooms at El Tovar with and without the view, and it really didn't matter. All you have to do to see the canyon is walk outside!

When we had the view room, it was snowing outside, and it was so beautiful. We had just returned from hiking up from the bottom of the canyon, and checked into our room. I didn't spend more than 2 seconds looking out the window, before bundling up to go back outside again.

The suites are very nice.

Yes, take it! And yes, have dinner there and you will need reservations.

I second that emotion - grab it! You'll kick yourself if you don't. Millions of people every year dream of staying at the El Tovar and that's all they do - dream - 'cause the place is booked so far ahead. The view (or lack thereof) is no big thing 'cause the hotel is located right on the canyon rim. You walk out the back door and BOOM! there it is.

It's a known fact that El Tovar has the best coffee at the South Rim. Also, the best breakfast. So, if that matters to you, you might as well stay there so you can be closest. The bar is nice, too.

Hey juliajane, hopefully by now you DID take it. As others said, it really doesn't matter where you're at as long as you're there. Also, if any of you are chocolate lovers be sure you have their Belgian hot chocolate. Amazing.

I am thrilled to be reading this as we recently made reservations at El Tovar for a long weekend next September! It will be my first trip to the Grand Canyon so I am really excited.