The Train

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

(217)

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 (217)

See all on Google

4.7

217 reviews

Google Reviews

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Bill Howe

2 weeks ago

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

H C Modi

a month 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

a month 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.

Nina

4 months ago

This was such a great time! The train was very comfortable and extremely timely (don't be late or you will be left). The performers all did a great job, and the staff on the train cars were clear, warm and professional. I would recommend The Train to anyone in the area trying to see the Grand Canyon. Spending 3 hours at the Canyon is a good amount of time for someone not trying to take a long hike, or who has a family with them. IMO it's not necessary to book at the hotel as well since there are plenty of good budget options nearby.

Surge Ortizz

4 months ago

Terrible experience, they sold us tickets to coach D. When we tried to board the train they told us coach D didn't exist. They caused my family and I am inconvenience and this is not the first time I've heard of this problem, because railroad attendance told us that they do this all the time. We had to wait for everyone else to be seated so that they can check to see if they have room for my family and I. This is very unprofessional for a company who's been in existence for so long to cause an embarrassment situation for my family and I.