Grand Canyon Railway
Ride a historic train from Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon South Rim, complete with live entertainment and stunning desert views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Steam locomotive rides!
Grand Canyon Railway
Best Time
Steam locomotive rides!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic train from Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon South Rim, complete with live entertainment and stunning desert views.
"A unique and enjoyable way to reach the South Rim, with entertaining shows and a memorable journey."
Choose Your Car Wisely
Pullman cars offer a more affordable and authentic experience. Dome cars provide great views!
Book Ahead for Steam
Steam locomotive rides are only on select Saturdays. Book well in advance if this is a priority!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Train Ride
Williams, AZ to Grand Canyon South Rim
Experience a scenic journey on a historic train, complete with live music and engaging cowboy characters.
Steam Locomotive Experience
Williams, AZ
On select Saturdays, ride behind a powerful steam locomotive for a truly nostalgic and impressive journey.
Onboard Entertainment
Inside the train cars
Enjoy live music, storytelling, and a thrilling 'train robbery' performance that delights all ages.
Dome Car Views
Dome cars
Opt for a dome car for panoramic views of the Arizona landscape as you travel to the Grand Canyon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Understand the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Car Wisely
Pullman cars offer a more affordable and authentic experience. Dome cars provide great views!
Book Ahead for Steam
Steam locomotive rides are only on select Saturdays. Book well in advance if this is a priority!
Pack Snacks & Water
While food and drinks are available, bringing your own can save money and offer more options.
Arrive Early in Williams
Give yourself time to explore the historic depot and shops before boarding.
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Car Wisely
Pullman cars offer a more affordable and authentic experience. Dome cars provide great views!
Book Ahead for Steam
Steam locomotive rides are only on select Saturdays. Book well in advance if this is a priority!
Pack Snacks & Water
While food and drinks are available, bringing your own can save money and offer more options.
Arrive Early in Williams
Give yourself time to explore the historic depot and shops before boarding.
Enjoy the Show!
Don't miss the onboard entertainment, including musicians and a fun 'train robbery'! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Grand Canyon Railway for its unique and entertaining journey to the South Rim. The onboard shows, historic atmosphere, and scenic views are frequently highlighted as major positives. While some find the ticket price a bit high, most agree it's a memorable and worthwhile experience, especially for families.
"I went on New years day, by myself. What a wonderful way to start the new year. Very entertaining. I didn't know about the shows and the musicians beforehand. It was very fun. Great for kids! Obviously the grand canyon was beautiful aswell. I will be recommending going to see the grand canyon this way to anyone that will listen."
Kiah Prevost
"The train from Williams to the Grand Canyon is a bit pricey, but it’s a unique and enjoyable way to reach the South Rim. I recommend choosing the Pullman Class — it’s more affordable than coach, and you get a more authentic experience in a car built in 1923. Unless you're traveling during the peak of summer, when air conditioning might matter more, there’s really no need to pay extra. Overall, a charming and memorable trip."
Uri Sirota
"The train ride was fun, and the cowboy show was cool and neat to watch. The Pullman car was the best."
Andy Vickland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Flagstaff, you can take an Amtrak Thruway bus service directly to Williams, AZ, where the Grand Canyon Railway departs. The bus typically arrives in the evening, so plan for an overnight stay in Williams if you want to catch the morning train.
The Grand Canyon Railway departs from the historic Grand Canyon Railway Depot in Williams, Arizona. This charming town is located about an hour south of the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
Yes, there is parking available at the Grand Canyon Railway Depot in Williams. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
You can take Amtrak to Flagstaff, AZ, and then transfer to an Amtrak Thruway bus that will take you to Williams, AZ, the departure point for the Grand Canyon Railway.
The drive from Phoenix, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, AZ, is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and your starting point within Phoenix.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by class of service and time of year. Coach class can start around $44.99 one-way, while more luxurious options like the Luxury Parlor can be over $100 one-way. Children's fares are typically lower.
You can purchase tickets directly from the official Grand Canyon Railway website (thetrain.com) or through authorized travel partners. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, the railway offers several classes, including Coach, Pullman, Dome, Parlor, and Luxury Parlor. Each offers different amenities and views. 
Yes, the Grand Canyon Railway ticket price does not include the Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee. You will need to pay the park entrance fee separately upon arrival or in advance.
Children under 2 are not permitted in the Observation Dome, and children are not permitted in the Luxury Dome or Luxury Parlor cars. They are free in other classes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The train ride from Williams, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon South Rim takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes each way.
You can expect live music, engaging cowboy characters, and a fun 'train robbery' performance during the journey.
Typically, you will have about 3 hours to explore the Grand Canyon South Rim before boarding the train for your return trip.
The train travels through open prairies, forests, and mountains, offering scenic views of the Arizona landscape. Dome cars provide panoramic vistas.
Absolutely! The train ride is very entertaining for children, with music, characters, and the exciting 'train robbery.' It's a unique way to experience the Grand Canyon.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, food and beverages are available for purchase on board the train. You can also bring your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, there are dining options available at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and restaurants located at the depot in Williams.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages onto the train. This can be a cost-effective option.
📸 📸 Photography
The dome cars offer excellent panoramic views for photography. The historic depot in Williams and the steam locomotive itself are also great photo opportunities.
Yes, absolutely! The 'train robbery' is a highlight and a perfect opportunity for fun photos and videos.
Generally, there are no major restrictions on personal photography on the train. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing aisles or crew members.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The train itself is a novelty, offering a fun and less strenuous way to reach the Grand Canyon compared to a long drive. Consider booking a Dome Car for extra fun and views, or look out for special events like the Polar Express experience during the holidays. While the train ride is fantastic, remember that your time at the Grand Canyon South Rim is limited to about three hours. Plan your exploration efficiently to see the key viewpoints. Bringing snacks and drinks can also be a lifesaver for younger travelers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on onboard purchases.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The historic depot in Williams and the steam locomotives themselves are iconic subjects, especially #4960. +1Don't miss the chance to photograph the lively onboard entertainment, particularly the 'train robbery' reenactment, which makes for dynamic and fun shots.
For the best light, consider booking a morning departure to maximize your time at the Grand Canyon and capture the landscape in softer illumination. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards!Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Grand Canyon Railway Experience
For those seeking elevated views, the Dome Cars provide panoramic windows, allowing you to soak in the expansive Arizona landscapes. If you're looking for a more luxurious journey, the Parlor Car and Luxury Parlor offer premium seating, snacks, and beverages, often with a dedicated host. It's important to note that some luxury classes have age restrictions for children.
When booking, consider the steam locomotive option, available on select Saturdays from April to October. This adds a powerful historical element to the journey, with many travelers highly recommending it for its unique appeal.
The Grand Canyon Railway Journey: What to Expect
+1During the ride, expect a blend of scenic beauty and entertainment. The train winds through diverse landscapes, from open prairies to pine forests. Onboard, you'll experience live music, storytelling that highlights the history of the railway and the region, and a crowd-pleasing 'train robbery' reenactment that adds a touch of Wild West drama.
+1 The railway staff are known for their hospitality, with hosts often sharing informative narration about the area's history. Upon arrival at the Grand Canyon Village, you'll have approximately three hours to explore the South Rim. This allows ample time to visit viewpoints, the visitor center, and museums before re-boarding the train for your return trip to Williams. The experience is designed to be a relaxing and entertaining way to reach the Grand Canyon, allowing you to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Steam Locomotive Power: A Special Treat
+2Witnessing and riding behind a steam engine is a sensory experience – the chugging rhythm, the hiss of steam, and the distinct smell create an immersive atmosphere. Many travelers specifically plan their trips around these steam days to capture the magic of this vintage mode of transportation.
It's crucial to note that steam locomotive operations are seasonal and weather-dependent. If experiencing a steam train is a priority, booking well in advance is essential, as these dates are highly sought after. The sight and sound of a steam engine against the backdrop of the Arizona landscape is a photographer's dream and a unique highlight of the Grand Canyon Railway experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit