All Aboard The Grand Canyon Railway
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
The Grand Canyon Railway is a fun & stress-free mode of transportation to the magnificent South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Although there are 2 rims, the South is open all year and home to more attractions. The train, built in 1908 by the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad, departs daily from the historic depot in Williams. If you choose this mode of transport, you can expect about a 2 hour ride for the 65 mile journey to the Grand Canyon Depot (built in 1909-1910) within the national park.
According to the NPS, millions have used the railway as their means of transportation to this must-see natural wonder. Anyone who loves trains or doesn’t feel like driving should appreciate this hands free mode of transport. Since I live in the region, I typically drive so my time is not limited. Recently, we had family members in town who love trains and wanted to take this ride. We figured we would do something different just to experience this wonder in a new way.
This train ride is a great option for anyone who is tired of driving, especially if you have just made a lengthy road trip out west. Why not let someone else do the driving so you can relax a bit? Aboard the train, you can kick back, order a few snacks & drinks, and enjoy some onboard entertainment. My favorite part about the entire experience was the western theme. The staff really put in a lot of effort into making it a great show for both kids and adults.
Welcome to the Wild West!
Before your journey, an entertaining 15 minute Wild West Shootout show will welcome you to the West. I’ve seen a lot of these type of shows since moving here (Tombstone is another great destination to enjoy the old time cowboy theme).
The cowboys also stage a train robbery near the end of your ride (a smart idea to get extra tips, I must say). I highly recommend arriving in time as this show is really what makes this trip worth booking. If you have extra time, you can also browse the large gift shop for souvenirs and pick up a cup of coffee.
I recommend dining in Williams before your ride as you are going to have a limited time for exploring once you arrive. You probably want to hold off on a lunch for a few hours and not waste your time searching for a restaurant. One of my favorite restaurants in Williams is Pine Country. It’s a cozy cafe serving American comfort foods. They open early (7am, 7 days a week), so it’s the perfect pre boarding choice.
Once you get on the train, you will be able to purchase drinks and snacks (coffee, beer, wine, chips, ice cream, and candy). Water is available for free (be sure to drink up as you are in a high altitude area). Some of the luxurious cars include food and drinks (I’ll explain more later on).
Choose your car
When booking your tickets, you will have the opportunity to choose amongst a variety of budget and luxury passenger cars. The most frugal option is the $70 pp Pullman car. Below I have given a brief overview of the various options available. Our party opted for the cheapest option as even this option ran us several hundred dollars. Pricing is roundtrip.
Pullman Car – The most budget friendly option, the Pullman, is $70 per adult and $36 for children. The seating is a bit tight, although the ability to flip the seats and sit across from your family/friends is pretty cool. There is no air conditioning, although I felt that the breeze once we started moving was enough to keep cool. Western entertainers will keep you entertained on the long journey which makes the 2 hour drive seem shorter. You can purchase light snacks in the Cafe Car.
Coach Car – The coach cars are $90 per adult and $56 per child and include everything the Pullman offers, in addition to air conditioning and handicap accessible features. If you get hot easily, the AC may be worth it to you.
First Class Car – The more luxurious First Class Cars are $170 per adult and $130 per child and feature oversized, reclining seats with more leg room, air conditioning, larger windows to take in the views along the way, complimentary fruit, coffee, juice & pastries in the morning, and complimentary snacks on the return route. As you can see there are many more amenities, but again you are paying an extra 100 bucks.
Observation Dome Car – For those who want to get a really good look at the scenery along the way, you can book the Observation dome which features panoramic views. In my opinion, the views really aren’t fantastic enough to justify 100+ extra dollars.
Rates are $200 per adult and $190 per child. Luxury features include air conditioning, panoramic dome style windows, comfortable padded chairs, lounge style seating, complimentary coffee, juice, and pastries in the morning, and snacks and white wine on the return journey.
Luxury Dome Car – The luxury dome car features the same luxuries as the Observation Dome, with the added benefits of a full bar, entertainment center, and cozy furniture. Children under 16 are not permitted, so you can enjoy a more refined, quieter ride. Rates are $240 per adult. I would say this ride is only suited for those willing to pay a lot more for luxury.
Luxury Parlor Class – The ultimate luxury experience is a ride aboard the Luxury Parlor car, which includes cozy seating and an open air rear platform for enjoying the views, in addition to amenities found on the observation dome car. Children under 16 are not permitted. Rates are $240 per adult.
All cars include a bathroom on board and all have air conditioning with the exception of the Pullman car. It really just depends on what level of comfort you are willing to pay for. I think the Pullman is the best overall value as I don’t know if the snacks, cozier seating, and AC justify the upcharge.
*Pricing updated as of 2025 and subject to change.
The scenery will vary from high desert to prairie to pine along the way. The best view to me is near the end when you enter a pretty ponderosa pine forest.
Flora & Fauna
At high elevation, you will take in great views of ponderosa pine, spruce, aspen, and douglas fir. As the journey drops in elevation, you’ll see traditional desert plants like sagebrush, live oak, salt brush, mountain ash, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. In addition, wildlife is plentiful with opportunities to see pronghorn, mountain lion, mule deer, and more along the way. We saw pronghorn and deer but were unable to capture pictures due to the fast moving nature of the train.
On the return route, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the San Francisco Peaks, which are the highest peaks in the state at 12,633 feet. I am used to seeing these mountains all the time living in Flagstaff, but this is a nice viewpoint for those who don’t get to see them everyday.
Cowboys greet you as you make your way back to Williams. As I stated above, I really love the western vibe. I imagine anyone traveling from outside the Southwest will have a great time. They go out of their way to make the experience extra touristy, giving you just what you expect.
The Itinerary
The train will depart Williams at 9:30am and arrive at the Grand Canyon at 11:45am (during peak periods the times may vary a bit). Be aware that you will only have until 3:30 to explore which is a bit limited in my opinion. By the time you eat, take photos, explore gift shops and museums, and take a short walk along the Rim Trail, you are pretty much out of time.
If you want to extend your time, I recommend booking a room at one of the various on-site lodging options (well in advance), and taking the train back the next day. This will give you more time to explore everything that the South Rim has to offer.
During your train ride, I recommend browsing through the materials they hand out (a newspaper and map will be set out on your seat for your convenience). You will not have time to see everything. This is why I recommend checking out my South Rim tourist guide well in advance of your visit. Note that you will not have enough time to hike the canyon or do any of the other major activities like rafting and mule rides.
These will require a separate trip – all the more reason to come back to beautiful Northern Arizona. This train ride more serves as a fun means of transport to explore the canyon in a limited manner for your first time.
Must-see attractions to see on your first visit
Lookout Studio – Lookout Studio is a gift shop and observing area which was built back in 1914. Because it is located on the very edge of the rim, you can get some great panoramic photos here. They sell lots of unique books. I really lived Over the Edge: Death at the Grand Canyon.
El Tovar hotel – This historic hotel was built just 20 feet from the rim of the canyon. It was the first to be built in the Grand Canyon Historic Village. The hotel, which opened in 1905, is open year-round. Due to the immense popularity, you must book month in advance. Whenever I see this hotel, I am reminded of the scene in Vacation where Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) tries to cash a check.
The Trail of Time – This fun, paved interpretative trail showcases rocks that are millions of years old. It’s a nice trail for history buffs. The trail is actually only a small portion of the 13 mile Rim Trail. The course is a bit hilly, so make sure you are up for a bit of a workout.
Rim Trail – This is the main trail in the park which stretches from the South Kaibab trailhead to Hermit’s Rest. You will find lots of interpretative historical signs plus amazing overlooks. You can go on however long you like and take a shuttle back when you tire. Learn more about the shuttle system on the NPS site.
Is it worth the price?
Although the cheapest ticket at $70 seems a bit pricey, it’s up to whether you like trains enough to justify the upcharge. That being said, by taking the train, you will save on the $35 entrance fee, therefore, reducing the price a bit.
The Pullman is the best value for the casual tourist who is mainly looking for a fun ride. You have to pay for your own drinks (with the exception of the wine toast on the dome cars), so you really are not getting much more for your money other than a few snacks, larger windows, and more comfortable seating. If these amenities are worth an $85-150 up charge per person to you, then by all means go for the fancier seating options.
Overall, I would recommend this train ride to anyone seeking a hassle-free, relaxing ride to the South Rim. If you are staying in the area, I suggest visiting another day separately to further explore. If you drive, your ticket will be good for 7 days.
Plus, views are even more stunning at sunrise and sunset, as are wildlife viewing opportunities! If you have the opportunity, consider hiking within the canyon. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore the canyon in such an isolated setting. My South Kaibab trail post details my experience hiking into the canyon. Spoiler: it’s super strenuous, but also one of the most amazing hikes I’ve ever completed.
Where to stay
If you need a hotel for the night, there are plenty of options in Williams and nearby Flagstaff. Both these charming mountain towns are within a 30-40 minute drive. Additionally, both towns are home to historic downtowns with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. If you are into hiking, there are some really nice trails in the region. I recommend taking a look at my hiking guide. I have included the most scenic easy-moderate hikes near Flagstaff after years of living and hiking in the area.
Tips for a smooth train ride
*Be prepared for seasonal weather changes. Summer temperatures are generally in the low-mid 80’s, although it can feel hotter as there is not much shade. In addition, daily monsoons are always a possibility in July and August. I was caught in one hiking and it was pretty scary. Spring temperatures are generally in the 70’s. Fall temperatures are usually in the 50’s-60’s. Winter temps can dip into the 40’s and snow is possible.
*Visit during the off season to beat the traffic. The spring and summer months see the greatest traffic.
*Remember that both Williams and the Grand Canyon are located at 7000 feet. Due to a combination of high altitude and dry weather, you will need to drink plenty of extra water. There is a complimentary water station located on each train compartment, so drink up. Take it easy and do not overexert yourself if you are not used to the high elevation.
*Book a night at one of the Grand Canyon lodging options well in advance, as each hotel/cabin tends to fill up well in advance, sometimes even months out. 3 and a half hours just isn’t enough time to see everything. You can stay overnight without purchasing another train ticket.
*Skip the restaurants and pack your own lunch. If only staying for the day, you do not want to waste your precious time dining. The El Tovar room is very popular and often has a wait.
*Bring with a tripod for your camera so you do not have to repeatedly ask others to take your pictures. It’s a beautiful place and you want to take the best photos possible!
*Don’t waste too much time in the gift shops. Much of the same stuff is sold as the large gift shop located at the Williams depot. You will have plenty of time to browse around when you get back.
*Book your train tickets in advance. Tickets can sell out during the prime season.
*Bring with a reusable water bottle. You can refill it with natural spring water at several stations along the South Rim.
*Arrive at least an hour early to the Williams depot to give yourself time to browse the gift shop, get coffee, and get a good seat for the Wild West show.
*Wear good gym shoes or hiking shoes. You will be doing plenty of walking on the Rim Trail.
*If limited on time, take the free shuttle to get to and from various attractions.
