Where to stay? In the Park, right outside the Park, or is Flagstaff too far away? We're a family of 4 with 2 young adult children, so will need 2 rooms. Looking at 2 nights. Is that enough time?

Plenty of time. Stay in the Park. Unlike some other National Parks (Grand Teton, Yellowstone, for example) the lodging outside Park is a longer drive. Nothing like rolling out of bed to see sunrise at Canyon or watching sun set.

Bright Angel has cabins - sort of like side by side duplexes - you can rent on side or both. each side realistically only holds 2 people, so one cabin would be perfect.

For your 2 days. Spend on day taking shuttle bus which goes around Rim with multiple stops. Even in summer each overlook never had a crowded feeling. Eat at El Tovar - adequate cuisine but great atmosphere.

Second day do a little hiking - depending on your condition. There is a trail at Bright Angel that does just below Rim and you can turn around at various points. Second half of day take other shuttle bus which goes to non-view areas such as Visitors Center - there are sometimes ranger talks. But book "Over the Rim" at visitors center and read about people who have died exploring or visiting the Grand Canyon. Eat at the steak house on lower level of Bright Angel Lodge.

We'll be driving up from Phoenix in the morning (about 4 hour drive). I am considering heading towards the East Entrance and taking the Desert View Drive, then the 2nd day the areas around the South Entrance. Would that work?

I'll have to check out the cabins. Thanks for the tip.

I came in the East entrance and stopped at several viewpoints. I was quite diasappointed as I got there around 5PM (June) and the sun was mostly in my eyes.

The drive and stopping at viewpoints doesn't take more than an hour or two.

If possible, hike at least part way down into the Canyon. I didn't and from above it's just an upside-down bowl and the Colorado River, when you see it looks like a stream. Of course its not.

I didn't give it its due and don't have an appreciation for its size.

I should have allowed an hour down and then back up.

We did the opposite when we came from Phoenix- we went in the south entrance and then left the next day through Desert Rim Drive. I am not sure if there is any benefit to one way over the other.

I would also suggest you stay in the park. If you do any type of hiking, you will be exhausted and not want to drive an hour toget to your hotel. THere are many reasonable dining options.