Happened to come across the chance to book one of the few suites when we were planning our trip, so I jumped on it. We are a small family of 3 - two adults and a tween and that was reflected in our reservation. Based on other in-park facilities and reviews, this seemed like it would be a nice splurge for us to have a little more room and not be around too much of the craziness of the park, while still being in the middle of everything. We arrived early evening after a drive in and our room was ready, but the front desk clerk said "This shows you have two adults and one child, is that correct? Would you like a roll-away bed?". That made me pause. From what I recall, that room on the website says it's for up to four people. I said "is there not a couch that converts to a bed?". She said "no". I guess my fault for assuming, but I'm not sure how this suite is for four people then. She then told me the roll-away bed would be an extra $20 per night - after I had already booked at over $900 per night!!! I questioned and she asked her supervisor, who thankfully waved the fee. For the grandeur of this hotel, nickel and diming wasn't what I expected. I did expect stairs, which we used extensively - so be prepared! Our room was pretty well kept for the age of the lodge (built in 1905) but the expansive deck, even on the end away from the canyon was the highlight. Even daily highs in the 40s/low 50s, we spent hours sitting in the sun, people and bird watching. The hotel doesn't have a ton of rooms, so upstairs, it's not super busy, but the main lobby area is hopping most of the day with people staying elsewhere but coming for food, the sunset and just to check it out. Not sure if we just had considerate neighbors the first couple of nights, because it was quiet and peaceful, but then we think a family staying in two rooms came in late the last night, with kids running back and forth and doors constantly slamming at 10pm and again at 5am. Highly recommend reservations for any meal (including breakfast) at the main dining room or even the cocktail lounge. My husband and I went there for a light dinner and drinks our last night, to get an hour to ourselves, but to our surprise, there were several kids there (some using phones to play games with no headphones). I expected it to be adults only, so it wasn't really the relaxing break we sought. Our server was great though. Breakfast in the main dining room was very good and decently priced, though a bit slow one morning - again, kind and welcoming servers. We did not eat there for lunches or dinners. There are a couple of gift shops - one nicer and one with basic t-shirts, snacks and odds and ends. The location of the lodge is very central to the park, an easy walk to Thunderbird and Kachina Lodges, Verkamp's Visitor Center and the shuttle route. A little longer walk to Maswik Lodge - shuttle required for other areas. Takes several minutes on the Rim Trail to get away from it all, but once you do, you really do. We hiked all the way to Hermit's Rest from El Tovar. Overall, a good stay, compared to what other options there were for a little more space/seclusion. Not sure if we'd pay the same for the suite again, but it was a nice treat.

Would have been "good" at a normal price but the room, room-service and lack of elevator was not up to par given the rather high cost. Tub needed maintenance but no big deal - room service (actually getting someone to answer) was not great, but the greatest weakness was a very loud heating unit. People were freindly however.

Travelled to El Tovar in early March with my wife. She uses a wheelchair, and rooms were limited as a result, but the side entrance is best for viewing the canyon and parking worked for us though it was 100 ft distant. Main issue disability wise is that the room has a tub and the shower chair provided was not robust. The staff was very receptive to any concerns.

Sensational, Romantic, awesome. So close to the rim trail. Great restaurant. Excellent lobby. Easy access great parking. Everything you need when you need it. Such nice people. Train very close, great views and wildlife. Bus service near by, great gift shop.

We enjoyed our stay in the El Tovar hotel due to the beautiful location across from the canyon rim and also being able to stay in such a historic hotel. We stayed two nights in a first floor Deluxe King room (we called ahead to request the first floor as there are no elevators). The bed was comfortable, and the room good sized. We liked the additional storage shelves in the bathroom and also the soap, lotion shampoo and conditioner dispensers. We would highly recommend staying here and make sure you book in advance (we booked one year ahead of time).