We were only able to get reservations at Yavapai and had no idea that we would be much further from the rim than Bright Angel or El Tovar.
But, in many ways it is an advantage. It's quieter and more peaceful; the food at Yavapai Lodge is much better than at Maswick and I think Bright Angel and you have more selections so everyone is happy. The rooms are substantially more spacious than El Tovar. The only downside is you don't have that "historic" type feel to your room- it's like staying in a Motel 6. But you're only in your room for sleep anyway.
The fireplace in the lobby of El Tovar is lovely, but it's always crowded.

We enjoyed this hotel. very clean and comfy. this was our 1st trip to the canyon and after reading all the reviews, i'm glad we picked yavapai instead of bright angel. not only is angel busier, but the mules are right next door and whew! what an odor! i don't think i could ever get used to that smell. yavapai was just right. however, it is NOT in walking distance to the other rim properties. we had a car, so we didn't worry about taking the shuttle.... the cafeteria was fair. high prices, but then again, look where you are, so far away from everything..... we took scenic airlines tour..plane,helicopter,boat,bus. it was definitely worth the price and lasted five hours. ........ you will love the grand canyon.....bring lots of film

My family and I have just returned from vacationing in the Grand Canyon (March 2004). I am the world's pickest traveler (just ask my family) but I found the Yavapai East to be wonderful. The rooms were large and the area very quiet. Each room has a single couch, a desk, a large bathroom and a coffee maker and refrigerator.It was very close to the cafeteria and shopping. The shuttle bus stopped right in front of Bldg.
3. We saw the Rim accommodations and they are nice but if we were to visit again, we would return to the Yavapai. At the rim accommodations there was too much hustle and bustle.

We stayed here in June of 2003. I'm late writing this reveiw because I swore I would do it sometime after staying here. I had read terrible reviews about the Yavapai Lodge. Nonsense! If you complain about this place you are crazy!! It was everything and more for a "Park" feel. If you want posh don't come to the Grand Canyon. It's supposed to be a bit rugged. Even El Tovar isn't posh. They are both about the same minus the lobby. This isn't Palm Springs people. We always stay in very nice places, usually 4 stars so I feel I have a good frame of refrence. Maybe since we live near Mamouth Caves National Park and have visited often, we are used to more rugged accomadations.We had our 3 children with us and we all loved it!!! Don't let the negative reviews stop you from staying here. You just have to expect a moe rugged experience. It's great for what it is!!