The Red Garter Inn

Built in 1897 as a saloon and, later, a brothel, The Red Garter Inn has spent the last few decades as one of Williams' most talked-about places to sleep. The restored brick building sits right downtown, close enough to the depot that you'll hear the Grand Canyon Railway trains — a detail guests either love or could do without. With a 4.6 rating from 227 Google reviews, it's clearly doing something right for an Old West bed-and-breakfast with no front desk staff on site.

What to expect

Rooms lean into the building's history with period furnishings and names like "Big Bertha," reached via a steep original staircase — reviewers mention it's part of the charm, not a modern retrofit. A continental breakfast and Wi-Fi are included, and there's a gift shop downstairs worth a look even if you're not staying. Because the inn runs unstaffed for much of the day, check-in is handled by phone rather than in person, so read the instructions ahead of arrival.

• Location: 137 W Railroad Ave, Williams — walkable to the historic Route 66 downtown
• Good to know: no on-site staff; check-in details come by phone
• Includes: continental breakfast, Wi-Fi

It's a solid pick for travelers who want atmosphere and a story over a standard chain stay, especially as a Williams base before boarding the train to the South Rim the next morning.