You Know That Expression, “Getting There is Half the Fun.”?
This is What They Were Talking About.
Set out for an adventure to one of the most epic destinations in the world – the Grand Canyon. Ride the rails to the rim on a historic train and enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time with roaming musicians who serenade passengers, attendants that share historical and regional knowledge and even an old-fashioned train robbery. Experience the way of the west on the way to the canyon.
Here are two great itineraries that are packed with fun and will help you get the most out of your special trip to the Grand Canyon.
Enjoy a 2-night getaway to the canyon with our most popular package!
Enjoy all the elements of the “Canyon Discovery,” plus spend more than 24 hours inside Grand Canyon National Park with an overnight stay at Maswik Lodge North. Maswik Lodge is a modern facility spread over several acres of Ponderosa Pine forest, located walking distance from the canyon’s edge and historic Grand Canyon Village. Much of the Village was built in the early 1900s by the railroad. Here you’ll find landmark buildings like El Tovar, Hopi House, Lookout Studio, the Bright Angel trailhead and more.
You know the Grand Canyon Railway is a historic ride on the rails with real, restored locomotives and vintage cars. But did you know there are musicians who roam the train playing the tunes of the West? How about that each car has a Passenger Service Attendant who will share facts about the area and the canyon and help you maximize your time while at the South Rim? And of course, there are cowboys! Each morning before the train leaves, the Cataract Creek Gang and the Marshal square off at the Williams Depot. Then later in the day, don’t be surprised if those cowboys are up to their shenanigans… They’ve been known to try a train robbery or two in their day.
The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is located adjacent to the historic Williams Depot and is walking distance to downtown Williams and its famed main street – Route 66. Splash and swim in our indoor pool and hot tub and play on our outdoor kids playground. Right off the lobby, stop by Spenser’s Pub for a beverage with its classic handcrafted bar built in England in the 1800s. The hotel features many room types and most have two queen beds to accommodate parties of all sizes. Packages are available that include nights at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. You can also book a package that includes lodging inside Grand Canyon National Park.
These aren’t just train cars. They’re classics – restored with love – and ready to be proudly shared with you. Families can travel in one of four classes of service.
The train departs daily at 9:30 a.m. from the Williams Depot. A second train departs at 10:30 at busier times of year like Spring Break and during the summer. Call 1-800-THE-TRAIN or book online.
Grand Canyon Railway departs daily from Williams, Arizona. This classic mountain town is located in the Ponderosa pine forest at around 6,800 feet elevation. The town has a four-season climate and provides year-round activities, from rodeos to skiing to nearby attractions like Bearizona. Dubbed the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” Williams main street is none other than the Mother Road herself – Route 66. Along the famed road you’ll find classic retail stores, bars, restaurants all with a western flair.