If you’re looking for a new way to experience the Grand Canyon, how about a train ride? The Grand Canyon Railway in Arizona makes daily runs from Williams to the South Rim, showcasing our state’s most iconic natural wonder like you’ve never seen it before. There’s even a hotel and restaurant right next to the depot, so you can make a whole vacation out of it!
Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway has offered daily train rides from its historic Williams depot to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
TripAdvisor/Management
Passengers can choose between six different levels of luxury, from the most affordable Pullman Class to the Luxury Dome, which features a spacious lounge and private bar service.
TripAdvisor/Management
No matter which class you choose, all of the train cars are beautifully restored to showcase what it was like to ride the rails in the early to mid-1900s.
Facebook/Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel The train departs at 9:30 a.m. MST and returns at 5:45 p.m. (except in November and December, when it departs and returns one hour earlier). Guests are dropped off at Grand Canyon Village and enjoy more than three hours in the canyon.
Depending on where you’re coming from, you may need a place to spend the night after the train ride. Luckily, the railroad has its very own hotel right next door to the station!
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Upon stepping inside, the opulent lobby will whisk you back to a bygone era with its old-world elegance.
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The newly refurbished hotel boasts nearly 300 rooms, offering plenty of space to accommodate your adventures. Plus, with standard and deluxe rooms as well as suites, there’s something to fit every budget.
TripAdvisor/Management
Just wait until you see all of the amenities! The resort-style indoor pool has to be our favorite. You can take a dip no matter the season or weather conditions!
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There’s also an on-site eatery, the Fred Harvey Restaurant, so you don’t even have to venture off hotel grounds to grab a bite.
TripAdvisor/BluePointer
With seating for 350 people, the restaurant features a charming, train-themed atmosphere that promises a dining experience nothing short of magical.
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The cuisine is served buffet-style, with breakfast running from 6:30 a.m. until 10 a.m., and dinner from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. (3:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. during November and December).
TripAdvisor/BluePointer You’ll find a variety of traditional fare on the menu, from made-to-order omelets and hearty bowls of oatmeal to the most tender pot roast you’ve ever tasted.
If you’re looking to kick back and watch the game with a drink in hand, Spenser’s Pub is the place to go.
TripAdvisor/Management The 19th-century bar serves up delicious pub grub and refreshing beverages - the ideal recipe for unwinding after a long, yet rewarding day.
The best part of it all? You’ll be just two blocks away from the heart of downtown Williams and Route 66!
TripAdvisor/Management
There’s even a special hotel just for your pets! Visit the Grand Canyon Railway’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
TripAdvisor/Management
Facebook/Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
The train departs at 9:30 a.m. MST and returns at 5:45 p.m. (except in November and December, when it departs and returns one hour earlier). Guests are dropped off at Grand Canyon Village and enjoy more than three hours in the canyon.
TripAdvisor/BluePointer
TripAdvisor/PatriciaC21563
You’ll find a variety of traditional fare on the menu, from made-to-order omelets and hearty bowls of oatmeal to the most tender pot roast you’ve ever tasted.
The 19th-century bar serves up delicious pub grub and refreshing beverages - the ideal recipe for unwinding after a long, yet rewarding day.
Have you ever taken a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway? If so, did you stay in the hotel or eat at either of the restaurants? Tell us in the comments below! Check out our previous article for another train ride in Arizona that leads to a magical destination.
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Address: Grand Canyon Railway Resort - Williams, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
