Grand Canyon Railroad

A Wild West send-off and a scenic ride straight to the rim.

(119)

Williams, AZ

About

Riding the rails into the canyon has been a Williams tradition since 1901, and the modern Grand Canyon Railway keeps the spectacle going with a Wild West send-off before you even board. A cowboy skit plays out at the depot stage, then it's onto vintage-style Pullman cars for the roughly 2 hour 15 minute run north to the South Rim.

What the ride is like

Seats face each other or swap to face forward, windows open for photos, and a strolling musician works the cars along with a rotating cast of narrators sharing canyon history. Sodas and snacks are included; alcohol and full meals cost extra, and reviewers note the dining car isn't cheap, so packing your own lunch and drinks is common. Each car has a restroom, and you can leave belongings on board during your time at the rim.

At the canyon

The train typically holds at the Grand Canyon depot for about 3.5 hours before the return trip — enough time to shuttle to the visitor center and walk part of the Rim Trail back toward the village, though it's a tight window for anything more ambitious. The trip home usually includes a staged train robbery, a nod to the railway's Old West theming that reviewers say is hit or miss but generally good fun.

Hours: daily, 9:30 AM – 5:45 PM
Rating: 4.7 stars from 116 Google reviews
Departs: 280 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ

It's a relaxed, scenic alternative to driving, and a favorite for groups and first-time visitors who want the journey itself to be part of the trip.

Reviews (119)

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4.7

119 reviews

Google Reviews

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Emily Marckioli

2 weeks ago

Our train ride was very enjoyable. We rode the Pullman car with Mark W. He was very knowledgeable and the kids loved his cow jokes. We enjoyed the wind with the windows open and seeing wild horses and prairie dogs.

Katya Coubertier

2 weeks ago

Must visit and experience! That was awesome! I liked Pullman Cart better than Coach. All experience is one big show, from boarding to unloading. Lots of entertainment, amazing people who make 2.5 hours fly,lots of jokes. Water,bathroom, Cafe - on board!

William Riley

2 weeks ago

I love trains so this was a great way to get myself and the family to the Grand Canyon. The scenery was beautiful and it's a relaxing 2 hour trip. We saw ground hogs, elk, and coyoye as well as cattle and horses. The highlight of the trip was our conductor Johnny Arizona who was very knowledgeable about the area, the railway, the canyon, the history, where to eat, etc. He kept us entertained as well as hydrated with cups of water. The only downside to our trip was we only had about 3 hours at the south rim. If you want more time to explore then don't do the up and back day trip.

Rieul Gendron

a month ago

I decided to treat ourselves to the “Chief” (luxury parlor class) absolute last car where you can stand on the balcony at the back of the train. Although pricey, it was totally worth it. I walked down the entire train to compare every single carriage with this one and this was worth it. The bottom line for me is I don’t want to feel claustrophobic and so being able to walk out to the balcony at the back and just get the fresh air and see the scenery speeding away from me is so worth it. Anyway, we had food and drinks and treats and we had the most delightful attendant called Teryl I believe. She’s a sweet lady who has the most fascinating stories and she speaks so eloquently and sweetly.

Cindy Rash

a month ago

Huge SHOUT OUT to Sheryl who was our host on the Grand Canyon Railway! If you are looking for a person who absolutely loves her job and makes the experience top notch - ask to be on Sheryl's train. We were in coach and the experience was a "hoot!" I appreciated her humor - oh the jokes! We are now back in Iowa and I had to use her bobcat joke on a neighbor -- LOL! Her love for the railway is inspiring and I hope to ride her train again someday!