Desert View Trading Post
A charming trading post and snack bar on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, offering unique crafts, souvenirs, and delicious ice cream.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Desert View Trading Post
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming trading post and snack bar on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, offering unique crafts, souvenirs, and delicious ice cream.
"The best ice cream shop I've ever been to, with great souvenirs and friendly service!"
Souvenir Shopping
Find unique souvenirs, local rugs, and crafts at the trading post, especially before heading to the Watchtower.
Sweet Treat Stop
Grab ice cream or homemade fudge after climbing the Watchtower for a refreshing break.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American (Snacks)
Price
$
Phone
(928) 638-3150
Address
Desert Vw Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Charming Desert View Trading Post
Discover unique Southwest Indian art, crafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy sweet treats like ice cream and fudge while browsing.
Delicious Ice Cream & Sweet Treats
Indulge in hand-scooped ice cream, homemade fudge, and coffee drinks after exploring the Grand Canyon.
Iconic Desert View Watchtower Views
Experience breathtaking panoramas from the historic Desert View Watchtower, a landmark on the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Souvenir Shopping
Find unique souvenirs, local rugs, and crafts at the trading post, especially before heading to the Watchtower.
Sweet Treat Stop
Grab ice cream or homemade fudge after climbing the Watchtower for a refreshing break.
Try the Indian Tacos
Savor 'Indian tacos' served on Indian Fry-bread for a unique and tasty lunch option.
Relax with a View
Enjoy coffee or ice cream from the deck, complete with rocking chairs overlooking the Grand Canyon.
Tips
from all over the internet
Souvenir Shopping
Find unique souvenirs, local rugs, and crafts at the trading post, especially before heading to the Watchtower.
Sweet Treat Stop
Grab ice cream or homemade fudge after climbing the Watchtower for a refreshing break.
Try the Indian Tacos
Savor 'Indian tacos' served on Indian Fry-bread for a unique and tasty lunch option.
Relax with a View
Enjoy coffee or ice cream from the deck, complete with rocking chairs overlooking the Grand Canyon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Desert View Trading Post is a popular spot for souvenirs and sweet treats, especially ice cream, offering a convenient stop near the Watchtower. While many praise the friendly staff and generous ice cream portions, some visitors have noted issues with the Starbucks coffee quality and the temporary closure of the Watchtower's upper floors.
"Large selection of South West Indian art, dream catchers, and figures. If looking for that one of a kind suvioners, then this is your first chance to get one from the east side entrance of the Grand Canyon.
There is also an attached 6 you need a coffee, pick me up or a sweet treat."
Adam Cook
"This is another gift shop and convenience store within throwing distance of the market and deli store, which are both located near the Desert View Watch Tower. Like the marketplace store, this location sells a variety of park souvenirs, clothing, food, Native American goods, but most of all, ICE CREAM! Yes, ice cream, making this one of our favorite places, because who does not like ice cream. I know, carried away, but I still had some even though it was cold and snowing outside this morning. Like the marketplace beside this shop, prices are what you would expect inside any National Park, but still reasonable – and they have ICE CREAM."
Thomas B
"Desert View Trading Post is a great little stop—perfect for a cool treat after climbing the Watchtower! We grabbed some ice cream here after enjoying the incredible views, and it totally hit the spot. The shop itself has a fun, classic park vibe with plenty of snacks, drinks, and souvenirs, all in a super convenient location near the Desert View parking area.
The staff was friendly, and it’s a nice spot to take a quick break before continuing along the scenic drive. Definitely worth a stop—especially if you’re looking for a refreshing treat and a few keepsakes to take home!"
BradandJen McCleary
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's known for its selection of Southwest Indian art and crafts, as well as ice cream, homemade fudge, and snacks.
Yes, the snack bar offers items like 'Indian tacos,' hot dogs, and other savory snacks.
The ground floor is accessible, but due to fire safety concerns, the upper floors may be permanently closed.
You can find a large selection of Southwest Indian art, dream catchers, figures, locally made rugs, and other crafts.
Yes, there are outdoor seating options, including rocking chairs on the deck with views of the Grand Canyon.
All food and gift shop facilities are generally open daily, but it's advisable to check for specific hours during your visit.
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12 Places to Eat During Your Stay in the Grand Canyon
Desert View Trading Post and Ice Cream: If you want a little something sweet while you’re exploring the South Rim and maybe want to pick up some cool souvenirs while you’re at it, the Desert View Trading Post and ice cream parlor is a good place to do both. This trading post features ice cream, homemade fudge, and coffee-based drinks along with a ton of locally made rugs and other artisan crafts.
A Foodie Road Trip: Las Vegas/Grand Canyon Edition
We had lunch at the Desert View Snack bar and were blown away by what seemed to be tacos on Indian Fry-bread, so tasty!. After an amazing day we headed back to prepare for dinner at El Tovar Dining Room located in the historic hotel of the same name. U.S. presidents have dined here before such as Teddy Roosevelt and Bill Clinton.
Where to Eat at the Grand Canyon
You can’t walk to the Desert View Watchtower without stopping for a generous scoop of ice cream here. If ice cream doesn’t tickle your fancy, there are plenty of other sweet treats and savoury snacks on the menu. You can also browse the gift shop for souvenirs to take home.
30 Fun Things To Do at the Grand Canyon with Kids (2024)
If you make it all the way to Desert View, stop at the trading post. In addition to the gift shop, there is also a snack bar and dessert shop. My recommendation is that you either get ice cream or homemade fudge from Desert View Trading Post.
11 Best Restaurants Near the Grand Canyon in 2023
Desert Vw Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023Phone: 928-638-3150. A post shared by Elizabeth Stuckey (@lizstuckey.travelpics). Are you in the mood for a light treat after taking a few pictures of Navajo Point?
Restaurants in Grand Canyon National Park
At Desert View (near the east entrance to the park), there’s the Desert View Trading Post Cafeteria. All of these places are open daily, and all serve meals for $15 and under.
3 Perfect Days at the Grand Canyon
For lunch, grab a bite to eat at the Desert View Trading Post, serving up "Indian tacos," hot dogs and ice cream to enjoy at one of the outdoor picnic tables.
Explore Desert View - Visit
The Desert View Trading Post is another place to fuel up, re-hydrate or indulge your sweet tooth with hand-scooped ice cream, smoothies and more.
Grand Canyon National Park – Desert View
Then there is the Desert View Trading Post, a coffee shop/snack bar and gift shop with excellent wide outside covered patios.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit