As stated in my review of Grand Canyon Depot I was duped into booking at this hotel. I thought wrongfully so that staying here was the best option when visiting the Grand Canyon, it's Not. The Hotel itself is okay. The the lobby is nicely decorated with photos of the Canyon from the 1920's and beyond. Beautiful fireplace and comfortable seating around. Though the area is small. Additional seats in front and back entrances. The bathrooms have been renovated and look good and modern. However the carpets look old and grimmie. The early morning check in attendant was wonderful giving us a whirl of information, and extremely helpful. The afternoon and evening attendant was clueless and rude. Not even knowing when the on site restaurant closed, then sending us around the entire hotel looking for the an restaurant entrance that didn't exist. If she would have clearly explained that there was a restaurant across the road that was open it would have saved us a lot of trouble. Note: many seniors book here so if the staff can't be patient, kind and courteous to them they shouldn't be employed there.
In summary I booked here because of the train ride to the Grand Canyon but for us it wasn't worth the money, time or effort.
It’s a bit pricey but it’s totally worth it. This place and the train is the life blood of Williams and they don’t disappoint. The staff was extremely helpful and polite, the building and grounds were very clean and well kept, the role players were great, Mia Arizona is the best. Mia kept everyone entertained on the long train ride back and forth and simultaneously taking orders and serving drinks. It’s a great experience and everyone should enjoy it at least once in their lives.
We only stayed at the hotel, so this review does not include the train ride. It is your standard 3 star hotel experience, typical size room with mini fridge, microwave and single serve coffee maker. The room was clean aside from a spot of something that was ground into the carpet.
Our first issue was the bed. If you are not into an EXTREMELY FIRM mattress this probably isnt the place for you. It caused some severe back pain. The lady at the front desk was as helpful as she could be, they did not have any type of mattress topper so she gave us a large pile of extra blankets to try to cushion the bed, it had a limited effect. We were glad we only booked two nights or we would have had to leave early.
The other issue was with the TV. It had no interactive capabilities what so ever. You could not review your folio to check on room charges, no streaming services, no ability to cast to the TV. There was limited cable but it didnt even have an interactive guide, you had to go to the guide channel and wait for it to slowly scroll through all the channels. In addition the guide was not using the correct time zone so it was wrong anyway. All super irritating when you get back from a long day and are just ready to relax.
We did eat at Spencer's Pub, it was basically middle of the road pub food. Prices were not horrible, but you can certainly get a better value/quality ratio at many of the other dining establishments in town.
My husband and I spent a mini-vacation at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. It was a wonderful time, lovely decor, and a perfect room. The food at Fred Harvey’s Restaurant for lunch & dinner was plentiful but the choices went from good to mediocre. We loved the train and had a concierge car with panoramic view which was such a highlight.
The experience was fun & pleasurable. Everyone made us feel important and special! We’d highly recommend this excursion!
The Chief is an classic streamliner-era parlor car that immediately transports you back to the golden age of rail travel. The interior features rich wood paneling, plush carpet, and large picture windows. What sets it apart from lower tiers is the seating arrangement: instead of standard fixed pairs, you get comfortable, padded lounge chairs and sofa-style seating designed for relaxing, socializing, and taking in the passing high-country scenery.
The onboard amenities in the Chief car are a major perk:
Complimentary Refreshments: Morning service includes pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice. On the return trip, you’re greeted with a generous spread of cheese, crackers, fruit, and snacks.
The car features its own dedicated bar, offering complimentary soft drinks as well as beer, wine, and spirits for purchase. Don't skip trying one of their signature railway cocktails on the ride home.
The true highlight of the Chief car is the dedicated passenger service attendant. They manage the bar, keep snacks replenished, and act as a knowledgeable local host—sharing fascinating history about the railway, the surrounding Kaibab National Forest, and the Grand Canyon itself.
You still get the full train experience—including the live acoustic musicians who travel between cars playing classic western tunes and the lighthearted "train robbery" re-enactment on the return leg—but with a much more exclusive, uncrowded feel.
