Grand Canyon Railway Williams, Arizona Information

The Grand Canyon Railway has been transporting visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park since its first train arrived at the rim in 1901. Once a steam locomotive line, today's visitors are transported to the Grand Canyon on vintage 1950's-era streamliner train cars.

The Grand Canyon Railway was once the only way for most visitors to visit the Grand Canyon, which was inaccessible by car until paved roads became the norm. Today, the Grand Canyon Railway remains one of the most popular ways to see the Grand Canyon, with more than 200,000 visitors riding to the Grand Canyon by rail each year. Train rides on the Grand Canyon Railway run approximately 4-1/2 hours and tickets range from $40-190. www.thetrain.com

Grand Canyon Railroad Depots -

The Williams, Arizona depot is the embarkation point for all Grand Canyon Railway trains to the Grand Canyon. Built in 1908, the historic Williams depot was once home to a Harvey House Hotel and restaurant and was a major rest stop for train travelers riding to and from California.

The Williams depot offers a steam locomotive display, a gift shop and a daily Wild West show. The Grand Canyon Depot located on the Grand Canyon's rim was originally constructed in 1909 and is the terminus for all Grand Canyon Railway trains heading toward the Grand Canyon. The historic, two-story log structure served as both the train station and the station agent's home and is one of only three remaining log train depots in the country.

Grand Canyon Railroad Tour Options -

The Grand Canyon Railway departs from Williams, Arizona, and offers several levels of train service to the rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Tours depart daily at 9:30am and arrive at 11:45 am. The train departs from the Grand Canyon Depot at 3:30pm, returning to the Williams Depot at 5:45pm.

• Coach Class -

  Passengers will enjoy a comfortable ride to the Grand Canyon on restored 1950's-era coaches featuring bench-style seating, strolling musicians and helpful passenger service attendants. Ticket prices are $70.00 adults; $40.00 children.

• First Class -

  Passengers in search of a little more luxury can ride in first class style and enjoy oversized, reclining seats, and grand picture windows in 1950's-era streamliners. Enjoy fresh fruit, pastries, coffee and juice on the morning journey and snacks, soft drinks and fine spirits on the return trip. Ticket prices are $140.00 adults; $110.00 children.

• Observation Dome -

  For a truly memorable experience, passengers can take a seat in the unique, glass-enclosed streamliner car, and enjoy panoramic views of the desert scenery while relaxing in padded, high-back chairs high above the train. Enjoy fresh fruit, pastries, coffee and juice on the morning journey and snacks, soft drinks and a champagne toast on the return trip. Ticket prices are $170.00 adults. Children 15 and under not permitted.

• Luxury Parlor Class -

  The Luxury Parlor Car offers the ultimate in elegant train travel, with lounge-style comforts, such as a private cocktail bar and an open-air, rear platform viewing area. Enjoy fresh fruit, pastries, coffee and juice on the morning journey and snacks, soft drinks and a champagne toast on the return trip. Adults: $190.00. Children 15 and under not permitted.