The Train

Depot & hotel for diesel locomotive departures on the Grand Canyon Railway, operating since 1901.

(219)

Williams, AZ

About

The Grand Canyon Railway has been running trains from Williams to the South Rim since 1901, and boarding at the historic depot on Grand Canyon Boulevard still feels like the start of something. This is the depot and hotel hub for the diesel locomotive departures — a 65-mile run that trades the highway for a slower, more theatrical way to reach the canyon, complete with an old-west send-off show before the train pulls out.

What the ride is like

Riders consistently point to the same details: an onboard musician working the cars, live commentary on the route and canyon history, and a staged train robbery on the return trip that's aimed squarely at families with kids. Seating ranges from Coach up to Pullman and dome cars, and reviewers note Pullman is comfortable without the premium price tag. The train drops passengers within walking distance of South Rim viewpoints, with roughly three hours in the park before the return trip — enough time for the Rim Trail and lunch, not a long hike.

Good to know

Rating: 4.7 stars from 217 Google reviews
Hours: depot open daily, 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: 235 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ
Booking tip: trains run full — reserve ahead, and mention any National Park pass when booking to avoid double-paying park admission

Bring comfortable shoes; between the depot, the train cars, and the paved South Rim walkways, there's more walking involved than people expect.

Reviews (219)

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4.7

219 reviews

Google Reviews

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Dick Groen

in the last week

Taking the train to the Grand Canyon is a great alternative. It departs from the town of Williams, and it is recommended to book or purchase tickets in advance. Please note that these tickets must be picked up in person. There are different ticket classes available: Pullman class ($70), Coach class ($90), and First Class ($173). Tickets for children under 15 are cheaper. I wouldn't choose the cheapest option, as it doesn't include air conditioning. Before departure (9:30 AM), there is a Wild West show featuring loud gunfire—fun for children. Afterward, you head to the train to board. There is plenty of staff on hand to show you the way. During the journey, you see diverse landscapes (desert, prairie, forest) with beautiful mountains in the background. There is entertainment on board, such as music, a staged train robbery, jokes, and information about the area. You can also buy snacks, drinks, and more on the train. The train arrives at the Grand Canyon around 11:45 AM and departs for the return trip to Williams at 3:30 PM (you must be on board by 3:15 PM at the latest), arriving back at 5:45 PM. If you really want to go hiking in the area, I recommend staying overnight or driving there early by car; the train doesn't allow enough time for that.

Mark “Irnhorsdoc”

a week ago

This is the fourth time the n the last ten years we have taken the train, and each time has been a great experience. Tom Hanks was our host in the Chief car and did a great job! Food & drink offerings were good.

Bill Howe

a month ago

Awesome experience . The train ride was great , Gina our guide so to speak was very informative and friendly .

H C Modi

2 months ago

One of the best and most memorable ways to visit the Grand Canyon. We travelled in coach class, which was comfortable and enjoyable. The 9 AM departure show created a wonderful old western atmosphere from the beginning of the journey. Live commentary inside the coach provided useful information about the route and Grand Canyon history. The onboard musician and the staged train robbery entertainment made the trip especially enjoyable for families and children. Arriving directly near the South Rim viewpoints makes the entire experience convenient and memorable. A wonderful combination of history, entertainment, and natural beauty. Highly recommended for Grand Canyon visitors.

Lisa Welch Knecht

3 months ago

We decided to take the train ride to the Grand Canyon rather than drive it and so glad we did. We went Pullman class because it was the most affordable and it was plenty comfortable and roomy. Our car attendant Emmett was fun and knowledgeable about the railroad and the history of the car and was helpful and made the trip fun. The train drops you at the south rim, a very beautiful area with mostly paved walkways and great canyon views. There is a lot of walking, especially once you get to the park, so be prepared for that. WEAR COMFY SHOES. Take water. It’s dry and the elevation makes you want to drink more as well. You get 3ish hours in the park before the ride back which was plenty for us for one day. On the ride back there’s a train robbery which is cute for the kids. It’s a full day, it was 6pm til we got back to our car. Also- if you are a national parks pass holder LET THEM KNOW when you book or you will pay park admission in your fee. The train was pretty full so probably a good idea to book in advance.