You’ll find the South Rim’s largest visitor center at Canyon View Information Plaza (7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily in winter) or CVIP, as the locals call it, across from Mather Point, about five miles north of the South Entrance. The plaza was designed for one-stop shopping: Facilities include shuttle stops, pay phones, restrooms, and a capacious store, Books & More (8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily in winter). Outdoor exhibits that introduce canyon geology, hiking, and other topics are open 24 hours a day, though the plaza’s lights go out at 9 p.m.

Facilities don’t include parking; the plaza was designed to be the center of the park’s light-rail system, but lack of funding has stalled construction. If you’re lucky, you might find a parking spot at Mather Point, a short walk across the road. From the village, you can get here on one of the park’s free shuttle buses, or walk the mile-long Greenway Trail that connects the CVIP to the Market Plaza, near Yavapai Lodge. If you’re staying in Tusayan, you can take a commercial shuttle for a small fee.

The visitor center at the CVIP has exhibits on natural history and news about the latest weather forecast, road conditions, and trail closures. There’s a transportation desk here, if you’re interested in a guided tour or need to make shuttle arrangements to the North Rim. Rangers are on hand to answer questions, and they love it when you ask one that tests their trail savvy or natural history knowledge, instead of just “Where are the bathrooms?” or “What time does the canyon close?”

Ranger programs are scheduled here several times a day, and they’re a good way to get to know the canyon in a short amount of time. Check the current schedule of programs in The Guide or posted inside the visitor center. You can also sign up the kiddos for the park’s Junior Ranger Program here.

You’ll find park information, copies of The Guide, and exhibits on the canyon’s natural and cultural history at many other locations along the South Rim. The Yavapai Observation Station (8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily in winter) combines displays about the canyon’s geology with a retail area, historic architecture, afternoon ranger talks, and the best indoor views of the canyon.

Kolb Studio (8 a.m.–7 p.m. daily in summer, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily in winter) has an art gallery, history displays, and a well-stocked bookstore. You can also sign up to tour this former home and movie auditorium, built by the Kolb Brothers and restored beautifully by the Grand Canyon Association (GCA).

Park Headquarters (8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Mon.–Thurs.) houses the Grand Canyon’s research library and the Shrine of the Ages Auditorium, where ranger programs and special events are held daily.

The Backcountry Information Center (928/638-7875, 8 a.m.–noon and 1–5 p.m. daily), tucked behind Maswik Lodge, is the best resource for backpackers. You can learn more about trails and campsites, pick up a Backcountry Trip Planner, or apply for a backcountry permit here.

Tusayan Museum (9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) exhibits and interprets the prehistory and history of the region’s native cultures. The museum, located 22 miles east of the village on Desert View Drive, has a retail area specializing in titles on archaeology and anthropology. Ranger-guided walks of the ruins are held daily.

The GCA-operated Desert View Bookstore and Information Center (9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, if staffing permits) has an especially fine selection of children’s books, games, and puzzles.