Grand Canyon Railway: A Historic Train Ride to the Grand Canyon
Step aboard the Grand Canyon Railway, an iconic train journey operating since 1901, and enjoy one of the most scenic and memorable ways to reach Grand Canyon National Park. Departing daily from Williams, Arizona, this 2-hour train ride transports travelers through the breathtaking high desert landscapes of Northern Arizona—offering a nostalgic and relaxing alternative to driving.
Train Ride Options & Car Classes
Choose your travel style from six different rail car classes, ranging from budget-friendly coach to luxurious first-class and observation dome cars. No matter what level you choose, the experience includes:
- Historic storytelling and narration
- Live entertainment with Western musicians and actors
- Comfortable, vintage-style seating
- Panoramic desert views
Keep on the lookout! Wildlife sightings are common—keep your eyes peeled for elk, mule deer, bald eagles, and even endangered California condors.
Grand Canyon Railway Fast Facts
- Departure Station: Williams, AZ (Route 66 town)
- Destination: South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park
- Travel Time: ~2 hours each way
- Round-Trip Duration: Full-day adventure (including time at the Canyon)
- Open Year-Round: Special events in fall and winter
The Polar Express: Grand Canyon Railway's Holiday Train Ride
All Aboard the Polar Express! Every holiday season, the Grand Canyon Railway transforms into the magical Polar Express, offering one of the top Christmas train rides for kids and families in Arizona. This immersive holiday train experience brings the beloved Polar Express book by Chris Van Allsburg to life. From the twinkling lights and festive decorations to the joyful singing of carols and the arrival of Santa Claus himself, it’s a can’t-miss Christmas tradition for families.
What to Expect on the Polar Express:
- Round-Trip Duration: ~90 minutes
- Departure Location: Williams Depot
- Atmosphere: Kids encouraged to wear pajamas!
Activities Include:
- Hot cocoa and cookies served on board
- Live reading of The Polar Express
- Christmas carol sing-alongs
- Visit from Santa Claus with photo ops
- Glimpse of the “North Pole” and Santa’s elves from the train
- Children (2–15) $67 – $98
- Adults (16+) $58 – $87
Tip: Tickets sell out fast—book early for weekends and prime dates in November and December!

Closest Hotels to Grand Canyon Railway - Williams, AZ
FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO STAY
Nakai Trail 4-BR A-Frame - Flagstaff
This house is newly listed for rental and is nestled in the Kachina Pines with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest & immediate access to trails. The house is newly updated including the kitchen & all amenities you might need, including alexa music throughout.
This is th … More
This house is newly listed for rental and is nestled in the Kachina Pines with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest & immediate access to trails. The house is newly updated including the kitchen & all amenities you might need, including alexa music throughout.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, and visiting Flagstaff/NAU. Its 4 bedrooms, 2 baths comfortably accommodate 12.
Flagstaff Hotels | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Games Provided | Fireplace(s) | Pet-Friendly
Wildland Trekking
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Shuttle Services Provided | Gear Rental Available or Provided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Romantic
Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion
The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other … More
The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other essential Grand Canyon sights after the ride; your car is waiting for you for a seamless transition.
- Grand Canyon North Rim helicopter tour
- Bring your camera for unbeatable views of the canyon
- A memorable travel experience great for first-time and return visitors alike
- Upgrade to include a Hummer tour after the helicopter ride
Optional Ground Tour | Family-Friendly
Canyon Dave Tours
Private Tours Available | Educational | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Family Business | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Things to Do in Williams
Maverick Helicopter Tours from Las Vegas
Family-Friendly | Reserve Now Pay Later | Additional Tour Options Available | Leaves from Las Vegas | Optional Ground Tour | Professionally Guided
Backland Luxury Camping
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fir … More
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fire in our glass-walled restaurant, relax with a massage in our tented spa, marvel at the grandeur of the universe through our complimentary telescopes, and take advantage of miles of nearby hiking trails.
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Features:
- Complimentary Breakfast
- Onsite Glass Walled Restaurant
- Onsite and nearby hiking trails
- Close to the Grand Canyon and dozens of local attractions
- Pond with sand beach, fishing, and kayaking
- Snowshoes and sledding onsite when it snows
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Tents feature:
- Panoramic windows
- Huge stargazing skylights over the beds (Skyview tents only)
- Automatic climate control, fully insulated, and energy-efficient
- King-sized beds
- Full en-suite bathroom with showers
- Luxury linens
- Electricity in tents
- Tentside parking + electric vehicle charging at reception
- Private Outdoor patios
- Coffee makers + mini-fridges
- Ecological toiletries + water conservation fixtures
Pet-Friendly | Fireplace(s) | Family-Friendly | Things to Do in Williams | On-site Restaurant | Outdoor Gear Rental Available | Games Provided | Hot Drinks Provied | Eco-Friendly | Spa | Breakfast Included | Williams Lodging
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale with Sedona
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Professionally Guided | All Fees Included
Papillon Helicopters
Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly
Munds Park RV Resort
Family-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels | Pet-Friendly | General Store | Laundry | Dump Station | Shower | BBQ/Grill | Fitness Center
Comfortable and Scenic near Grand Canyon - Williams, AZ
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Williams Lodging | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the … More
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the spectacular Grand Canyon South Rim. Optional "Colors & Canyons" 45-minute helicopter upgrade available.
Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Arizona Private Tours
Family-Friendly | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Flagstaff | Multi-Attraction Tours
Peaks & Pines 5-BR House - Flagstaff
Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures includi … More
Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, visiting Flagstaff/NAU or exploring the attractions. Its 5 bedrooms, 3 baths comfortably accommodate 12 making this house perfect for large groups/families.
Flagstaff Hotels | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s) | Games Provided | Family-Friendly
Small Group Antelope Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix
Benefit from a full-day tour from Phoenix to Antelope Canyon to see more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Take in Route 66, Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, Lake Powell, and a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Antelope Canyon. Then explore Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, and see the … More
Benefit from a full-day tour from Phoenix to Antelope Canyon to see more of Arizona’s natural beauty. Take in Route 66, Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, Lake Powell, and a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Antelope Canyon. Then explore Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, and see the Colorado River from the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. Meals and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Choose between a small-group or private tour.
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Educational | Hotel Pickup | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | All Fees Included
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Additional Tour Options Available
The Squire at Grand Canyon
Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | On-site Restaurant | ADA Accessible | Nearest to GNCP | Fitness Center
Western River Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours | Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Pink Jeep Adventure Tours
Family-Friendly
Fun 66 Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Educational
Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument … More
Tour the magical red rocks of Sedona and visit Native American ruins during this Sedona Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include spending the day surrounded by the stunning red rock landscapes of Sedona, see ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Visit Bell Rock, Airport Mesa and Chapel of the Holy Cross. Options available for shopping, galleries, restaurants in Uptown or T'laquapaque and off-road Jeep tours or guided hike add-ons.
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | All Fees Included
Bearizona Wildlife Park
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Things to Do in Williams
IMAX Grand Canyon National Geographic Visitor Center
Family-Friendly
Best Grand Canyon Day Tour
Private Tours Available | Shuttle Services Provided | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours | Additional Tour Options Available | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
Junipine Resort Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Romantic | Fireplace(s) | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Whirlpool Tub | Family-Friendly | On-site Restaurant | Fitness Center
Maverick Helicopter Tours from GCNP Airport
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view. … More
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.
Leaves from Tusayan | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Grand Canyon Railway
Family-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Things to Do in Williams | Leaves from Williams
Sheridan House Inn - Williams
No Children Accommodated | Romantic | Custom Options Available | Breakfast Included | Optional Intimate Personal Chef Cooked Dinners | Private Porch or Balcony | Hot Tub | Award-Winning | Williams Lodging
Grand Canyon and Sedona Day Adventure from Scottsdale or Phoenix
Make the most of your time in Arizona with a full-day tour that visits both the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Depart early from Scottsdale or Phoenix to explore the south rim of the Grand Canyon, taking in two prime viewpoints and strolling along the rim, then eating lunch. Continue to Sedon … More
Make the most of your time in Arizona with a full-day tour that visits both the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Depart early from Scottsdale or Phoenix to explore the south rim of the Grand Canyon, taking in two prime viewpoints and strolling along the rim, then eating lunch. Continue to Sedona where you check out the uptown district, and get photo ops at red rock sites.
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Custom Options Available | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Educational
Small Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas
Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Breakfast Included | Lunch Included
Signature Tour - Grand Canyon South Rim with Ground Tour from Phoenix
Marvel at the Grand Canyon's vast expanse and some of the American Southwest's most awe-inspiring terrain during a scenic flight from Phoenix. Your pilot flies at the perfect altitude to clearly view the natural beauty of Arizona, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, Mo … More
Marvel at the Grand Canyon's vast expanse and some of the American Southwest's most awe-inspiring terrain during a scenic flight from Phoenix. Your pilot flies at the perfect altitude to clearly view the natural beauty of Arizona, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, Montezuma Well, and the Red Rocks of Sedona. Experience this majestic wilderness from the ground and air on a day-long tour that includes a stop in the National Park and the historic village.
Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours | Professionally Guided | Educational | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Grand Canyon National Park Bus Tour from Las Vegas
Explore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.
… MoreExplore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.
Once you arrive at the South Rim, enjoy stops along the rim such as Mather Point and Bright Angel Lodge. Explore popular attractions in the Grand Canyon National Park such as El Tovar, Hopi House, Kolb Photo Studio, and the Bright Angel Trail and make memories of a lifetime!
Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon West Rim Bus or Private Tour with Hoover Dam
Private Tours Available | Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup | Breakfast Included | Lunch Included | Leaves from Las Vegas | Family-Friendly
Custom Grand Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Professionally Guided
From Phoenix-Small-Group Full Day Tour in Sedona and Grand Canyon
Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World with a small group and your expert tour guide. You will see all the most scenic lookout points of this natural wonder. This is a small group tour to ensure the most personalized experience.
Visit two of Arizona’s most impressive natur … More
Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World with a small group and your expert tour guide. You will see all the most scenic lookout points of this natural wonder. This is a small group tour to ensure the most personalized experience.
Visit two of Arizona’s most impressive natural wonders in one day—the mighty Grand Canyon and Bell Rock in Sedona. On this full-day tour, enjoy a personalized experience with small group size and free time to explore both sites. In Sedona, visit Bell Rock Vista, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and the uptown shopping area, then continue to the Grand Canyon South Rim and take in the views from Grand Canyon Village and Yavapai Point. Magnificent views of the Grand Canyon and Bell Rock Up to three hours in the Grand Canyon National Park Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop off.
This tour will have a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 5 travelers.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup
Canyon Plaza Premier Studio and Apartments
Pet-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Family-Friendly | Swimming Pool | On-site Restaurant
Grand Canyon South Rim, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas
This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive sc … More
This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive scenery.
On the way back to Las Vegas, we will have a short break in Seligman, a small town on Route 66. This is a nice little stopover where you can enjoy the old American atmosphere.
Leaves from Las Vegas | Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours
Small-Group 3 Hour Hoover Dam Mini Tour With Las Vegas Strip Pickup
Visit Hoover Dam on a Las Vegas "mini" tour that doesn't take up a whole day so you don't waste your precious vacation time. Or, perhaps you have a late flight and want to do something fun after hotel check-out. After departing the Strip, head to the dam, where you visit lookout points … More
Visit Hoover Dam on a Las Vegas "mini" tour that doesn't take up a whole day so you don't waste your precious vacation time. Or, perhaps you have a late flight and want to do something fun after hotel check-out. After departing the Strip, head to the dam, where you visit lookout points for views and photo ops.
- Visit Hoover Dam on a tour designed for those short on time
- Round-trip transport provided from the Las Vegas Strip
- Travel by small-group vehicle
- See the dam, Colorado River, and Lake Mead from different angles
Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon Day Tour with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup