If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Grand Canyon in a way that’s more than just driving and parking, the Grand Canyon Railway is such a fun option. You get entertainment, history, and views along the way — and the bonus is you don’t have to deal with traffic at the park entrance.
I have been to the train station SO many times over the years but never actually rode the train until this trip! I enjoyed the day more than I thought I would and definitely recommend it – especially for those who have never been to the Grand Canyon or just want a really unique way to experience Northern Arizona.
How It Works
You’ll start your day in Williams, Arizona (about 3 hours from Phoenix), where the train station is located. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time and picked up right at the station. Before you even board, the day kicks off with a cowboy show a fun little performance that sets the mood for your western experience.
Once the show wraps, it’s time to board according to your ticketed car. The train has six different classes of service, ranging from standard coach to luxury options.
Classes I Tried
For my trip, I decided to compare two classes:
- Coach (on the way up): A simple but comfortable ride with all the basics + access to the Cafe Car to purchase snacks and drinks if you like (though you can bring your own snacks/lunch if you want).
- Luxury Parlor (on the way back): This one included snacks, a champagne toast, and access to the observation dome and rear platform + bar. Definitely more comfortable if you want to splurge!
No matter which class you book, your car will have an attendant who shares fun facts about the canyon and history of the railway. There’s also onboard entertainment and snacks available for purchase. Watch out! You may even experience a “train robbery” just like in the movies.
The Ride & Timing
The train ride takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, so it’s a full-day adventure. Once you arrive at the South Rim, you’ll have about 3 hours to explore before heading back to Williams.
If it’s your first time visiting (or you haven’t been in years), there’s plenty to see right around the station, including rim trails, lookouts, and visitor centers. You can also book private tours for a guided look at other viewpoints if you have been to the main visitor’s center, Bright Angel etc. before.
Entrance Fee Reminder
Since you’re entering Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee in addition to your train tickets – but good news: they accept the America the Beautiful Pass! If you don’t have the pass it will be a $20 fee for a single person or $35 for your group if there’s more than 1 of you.
Why I Loved It
I honestly really enjoyed spending the day this way. It felt like a fun throwback experience while still being super practical because you skip driving, parking, and still get to enjoy plenty of time at the canyon. The train itself was part of the adventure, and upgrading one leg of the trip made it feel extra special. Splurge for the upgrade the whole way if you can!
If you’re looking for a new way to see the Grand Canyon, the railway is definitely worth it.
Know Before You Go
- Location: Grand Canyon Railway Depot, Williams, AZ
- Drive Time: About 3 hours from Phoenix, 1 hour from Flagstaff
- Tickets: Buy online in advance (especially during peak seasons) and pick them up at the station
- Train Classes: Six levels available, from budget-friendly Pullman and Coach classes to Observation Dome & Luxury Parlor.
- Travel Time: 2 hours 15 minutes each way
- Canyon Time: About 3 hours at the South Rim before the return train
- Food: Snacks and drinks available for purchase onboard; Luxury classes include some refreshments
- Entertainment: Cowboy show before boarding + live musicians/attendants onboard
- Weather: check weather for both Williams and the Grand Canyon South Rim to know how to dress.
- Entrance Fee: National Park pass or entrance fee required (America the Beautiful Pass accepted)
- Parking: Free parking is available at the Williams Depot
What about the Grand Canyon Fire?
The Dragon Bravo wildfire has been devastating to the North rim of the Grand Canyon. As of now (Fall of 2025) the North Rim is still closed to visitors as brave crews are still fighting this fire. The South Rim however, is unaffected and is still accessible to visitors. This is the area you’ll be visiting when taking the Grand Canyon Railway.
