Verde Canyon Railroad

The Verde Canyon Railroad runs a 4-hour, 40-mile round-trip through red-rock canyon country north of Clarkdale that has nothing to do with the Grand Canyon proper but everything to do with a good day out — vintage rail cars, an open-air viewing car, and scenery that reviewers keep calling the best part of their whole Arizona trip. With a 4.7 rating from over 5,400 Google reviews, it's one of the most consistently well-reviewed attractions in the region.

What the ride is like

Trains depart from the Clarkdale depot and wind through terrain only reachable by rail — past red sandstone cliffs, along the Verde River, and through a tunnel that riders say is a highlight, especially from the open-air car. Seating is in comfortable, climate-controlled coaches with couches in some cars, and you're free to move between your assigned car and the open-air platform throughout the trip. A charcuterie snack and access to an onboard bar (cocktails, wine) come with the ride; reviewers are split on the concession food itself, with several recommending a stop elsewhere to eat first.

Good to know

• Location: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale — about 55 miles south of the South Rim, near Sedona
• Hours: daily, 8am-5pm, though the excursion itself runs about 4 hours
• Try: the Starlight evening tour for sunset light through the canyon
• Tip: arrive 45 minutes early rather than the traditionally suggested 90 — reviewers say it's plenty

Book ahead, especially for the right-side seating that reviewers say has the better views.