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Grand Canyon Railway

Grand Canyon Railway

Grand Canyon Railway
4.5
About
Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel has been taking passengers on a fabled journey to the heart of one of the seven wonders of the world. Grand Canyon Railway is more than just a mode of transportation: it’s a trip back in time on lovingly restored rail cars with entertaining musicians and the antics of cowboy characters. Out your window, the terrain changes from high desert to prairie, prairie to pine. It’s a view that’s ever-changing until you come across a view so brilliant, it could very well change you. All aboard to the Grand Canyon to make a grand trip grander!
Duration: More than 3 hours
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  • Lead2829
    North Lawrence, Ohio349 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Take Time to Take the Train
    Highly recommended! We rode up in an observation dome and came home in a coach car. It worked out for us because we rode forward the whole time and did not have to go backwards. Beautiful views on the way up. The whole day is entertaining. Starts with a western show, and then you loud up into the train. Observation car had muffins and drinks. There is a little show on the way up and back. Plenty of time to explore the Grand Canyon and get lunch. The advice we got would it be hard for a sit down lunch. We found a sit down place in the bar area in the one hotel. The ride home they have a train robbery that is fun. The workers here are just awesome. Great time
    Thank you for your review! Regards, GCR&H Team
    Written December 6, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written November 18, 2023
  • Gossamer007
    Knoxville, Tennessee547 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Day Trip
    Took a day trip and had a great time. Train ride was relaxing and comfortable. Had a seat in the Fred Harvey dome car. Had great views the entire trip, and freedom to move about downstairs and to the rear luxury car where you could stand outside and look off the back of the train. Open bar for the entire trip. The train goes to the south rim of the Grand Canyon and drops you off for about 3.5 to 4 hours which is plenty of time to get in some good views of the Canyon and then get something to eat before the return trip. I really enjoyed the entire experience.
    Thank you for your review! Regards, GCR&H Team
    Written January 12, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled solo
    Written January 10, 2024
  • Katiebird1
    Warwick, Rhode Island137 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A fun and easy way to get to the Grand Canyon
    This was such a fun day. We splurged for the Luxury Dome, and I think it was worth it. The dome provides great views, and there is room to move around. We had assigned seats, and there were some extra benches with cocktail tables, plus there was an entire downstairs lounge with comfortable seating that we could use. In the morning there was coffee, juice, soda, muffins, and fruit. On the trip back, there was a sparking wine toast, soda, lemonade, cheese & crackers, vegetables with dip, brownies, and mini cakes. A full cash bar was available in both directions. Our tour guide/server/bartender/host Noel was wonderful. She was patient, informative, funny, and efficient. A singer with a guitar visited our car each way. On the way back, the gang from the morning Wild West show came on board the train to "rob" us. All of this entertainment made the trip go by quickly. The scenery was pretty but barren in spots. When I picked up the tickets the day before, the ticket agent noticed that it was my birthday. Then on the train ride, Noel gave me a birthday card, signed by several staff members. A nice touch! The trip allows for almost four hours at the Grand Canyon. If you are not going to do any big hikes, that is plenty of time to see the Canyon from different spots along the south rim, visit some of the buildings and exhibits, and have lunch.
    Thank you for your review, we're pleased that you enjoyed your stay! Best, GCR&H Team
    Written March 14, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written March 10, 2024
  • Melmel79
    Anoka, Minnesota177 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Good experience if you love trains or have kids. Expensive.
    This is a really expensive experience. We were in the first class Bright Angel coach, I suppose I expected more from the first class experience but I think what I was expecting was something you got in the 'luxury' experience which was even more expensive. Still it was ok and my daughter loved it. The Bright Angel coach is comfortable, seats are like older Amtrak seats, good cushions they do slide off their seats though so be careful of that, not all are velcro'd onto the seat. The seats do recline, you have a tray table that comes down (like on a airplane). The seats can be turned around so your group of 4 can face each other if they want but you lose your tables and leg room. We were traveling with two 6'5 men so legroom is important so we did not have our seats turned. They offer a morning buffet of coffee and pastries for free and drinks can be ordered/paid for card only. They play a western 'show' before you go which is cute and my 8 yo daughter enjoyed it. They 'continue' the show on the train if you take the train back which is fun too. The leader or our coach was very nice and would point out sights and fun jokes as we made the 2 hour journey. The train to and from leaves 'right on the dot' so do not be late. If you are train enthusiast or have kids - this is a good experience. If you are so so on trains, then probably skip this or book the cheaper coaches and bring your own snacks.
    Thank you for your review and feedback! Best, GCR&H Team
    Written March 22, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written March 14, 2024
  • MariaM.
    Wilmington, Delaware27 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Was worth paying for upgrades!
    Good experience - worth it to pay for the glass car/caboose. You get to go outside on back of train will riding, which was a highlight. Nice snacks/spread and beverage choices. Fun music & entertainment. Group of adults & all had a good time. Only drawback was there is a very, very big alcohol push in the morning - lots of stressing buying drinks, which got to be a bit of a turn off. Money well spent!
    Hello Mariam. I believe this review was posted on the wrong company. We are Canyon Dave Tours and only offer Van tours to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. We have noting to do with the Train and do not sale any alcohol on our trips!
    Written May 8, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written April 10, 2024
  • Joy L
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Try it you'll like it!
    Been there lots of times before but always by car. This time we decided to take the train - left at 9:30 in the morning and came back at 3:30PM. The hostesses and staff were phenomenal - filled with information and all provided excellent service! We especially liked our hostess on the return trip - Teryl. She was so pleasant and informative and kept us not wanting for anything! Great snacks and a great bar... I will go again!
    We appreciate your review and feedback! Regards, GCR&H Team
    Written April 14, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written April 13, 2024
  • saavik820
    Bullhead City, Arizona12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Grand Canyon Railway, the Old West comes alive!!
    This train trip was an amazing day. After a fun Western themed skit we boarded our train car. This car was a "Luxury Parlor Class" car, Chief. We couldn't have asked for more. There were 14 passengers in our car and the furnishings were very comfortable. Our group of 6 had 2 couches and 2 small drink tables. There was also a restroom and bar so we were very comfortable. The attendant for our cabin and the adjoining cabin was "Carol". This lady was a wonderful addition to our day. She mixed the drinks, shared some stories and took very good care of us. We were also treated to fruit, muffins and assorted pastries in the morning. On the return trip in the afternoon there were more snacks for us, including chocolates and assorted cheese and crackers. Before departing, we were also treated to live music and a champagne toast. I would highly recommend this excursion if you are planning a day at the Grand Canyon.
    We appreciate your review and feedback! Regards, GCR&H Team
    Written May 13, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited April 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written April 21, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles9,172 reviews
Excellent
6,641
Very good
1,522
Average
501
Poor
232
Terrible
276

Leslie G
2 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2023 • Couples
Buyer beware: This is an experience for people who enjoy the “booze cruise” type experience and don’t mind doling out tips for “cute” but unsolicited entertainment. For those people the trip to and fro will be fun filled and memorable. If you are not that type of person and expect dramatic scenery (none) informed narration about the Grand Canyon (almost none) and no one in your pocket (constant) this is not for you. The trip is long and slow and it’s chief benefit is that you arrive at the Canyon, no lines, no waiting. Unfortunately,!the 3 hours does not allow you to do very much (in fact they recommend you do not avail yourself of the free shuttles to other points of interest along the South Rim). Be aware that the photographer can charge more than $100 for their package ( but doesn’t disclose costs ahead of time). The fact that the return trip concluded with a contrived “hold up/ robbery” by mounted horsemen says it all.
Written May 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and feedback! Regards, GCRH Team
Written June 5, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Nicstuf
Lake Arrowhead, CA40 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2020 • Couples
This was our first trip to the Grand Canyon and as my husband loves trains we thought this would be a great way to incorporate both experiences, after booking I read more of the reviews and begin to wonder if we had done the right thing. Well long story short YES we loved this and would recommend for these reasons, we booked first class for the ride up to the canyon we were greeted by Jenny who got us settled in and was so informative and funny for the whole ride, her knowledge helped us enjoy the Grand Canyon, we decided to book the Parlor Car for the ride back because you are able to stand on the back of the train, Wow! this was probably the highlight of the ride plus the amazing service provided by Carol. This was truly a first class experience on top of seeing one of the natural 7 wonders!
Written December 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good afternoon, Thank you for your review and feedback, we're glad that you enjoyed your trip! Best, GCR Team
Written December 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

chaunm2019
27 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020 • Solo
I stayed at the hotel, and rode the train to see the Canyon oppose to driving myself. The railway is a great, hassle-fee way to see the canyon. The train depot is right behind the hotel and is about a two hour ride into the canyon. They provide complimentary drinks and snacks in the morning and afternoon. There is also live music which was a pleasant surprise. Ride was shorter than expected and was a great way to ride in if you are not doing a lot of hiking while you are there. Next time I would consider staying the night at one of the lodges just to get the chance to see the canyon at sunset. Claudia was the attendant on our car. She was fantastic! She was attentive, friendly and gave great information about where and what to do in town, as well as what to avoid. Loved her!

Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Melmel79
Anoka, MN177 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2024 • Family
This is a really expensive experience. We were in the first class Bright Angel coach, I suppose I expected more from the first class experience but I think what I was expecting was something you got in the 'luxury' experience which was even more expensive. Still it was ok and my daughter loved it. The Bright Angel coach is comfortable, seats are like older Amtrak seats, good cushions they do slide off their seats though so be careful of that, not all are velcro'd onto the seat. The seats do recline, you have a tray table that comes down (like on a airplane). The seats can be turned around so your group of 4 can face each other if they want but you lose your tables and leg room. We were traveling with two 6'5 men so legroom is important so we did not have our seats turned. They offer a morning buffet of coffee and pastries for free and drinks can be ordered/paid for card only.

They play a western 'show' before you go which is cute and my 8 yo daughter enjoyed it. They 'continue' the show on the train if you take the train back which is fun too. The leader or our coach was very nice and would point out sights and fun jokes as we made the 2 hour journey.

The train to and from leaves 'right on the dot' so do not be late. If you are train enthusiast or have kids - this is a good experience. If you are so so on trains, then probably skip this or book the cheaper coaches and bring your own snacks.
Written March 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and feedback! Best, GCR&H Team
Written March 22, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

tous2819
Northeast Oklahoma30 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2020
This 2.25 hour train ride is worth the time and expense. Although you do not see the Canyon from the train, you get to experience the three climates that lead up to the national park. They are currently doing a great job of wearing masks and social distancing, too. The best part is that you get to avoid trying to find a parking spot in the Park!
We took the first train out and the second train back, but we wish we had more time. Next time, we would park in Williams, stay the night (or two!) in the Park, and return the next day. There is plenty to explore at the Canyon. But even if you only have a day, you have time for lunch, a short hike, and a bit of shopping even without the extra time.
Written July 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Ted F
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2021
If you are headed to the a Grand Canyon, you should consider taking the railroad ride into the park and back. They allow over 3 hours to view the GC and return you to your car. They drop you very close to the rim unlike the parking lots which are a distance away. The information, entertainment, leisurely ride, view out the window, lack of traffic issues, attentive staff, history lessons made the ride well worth it. AmberRose was our train attendant and historian. She filled the time with color and stories of past and present as well as coaching us for a productive visit. Without her expertise, we would have wasted time and energy. The elevation at the GC is over 7000 feet and it does take its toll when you exert yourself. Be aware there is a lot of walking along the rim and the buss has suspended their service due to CoVid. Enjoy!
Written May 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and feedback! Best, GCRH Team
Written May 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Christa M
Minneapolis, MN41 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2021 • Family
We had a fantastic time on our train ride and 2 night stay at the hotel. Our children are 3 & 6 and 3.5 hours of wandering the southern rim is just the right amount of time. And us as parents could enjoy the scenery and wildlife instead of worrying about the drive. We did the coach car which was perfectly comfortable. FYI, if you have a national parks pass, bring it along so you can get the $35 they charge as part of the package back (since they have to pay for your entrance but if you have the pass you already did that). Our conductor, Skip, was delightful with fun historic info and corny jokes. Highly recommend!
Written March 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for sharing your experience, we're thrilled to hear that your family enjoyed the trip! Best, GCR Team
Written March 18, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

S F A
35 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021 • Couples
The ride to the Grand Canyon is beautiful but the train goes extra slow. So be aware that you will have only a few hours to visit the south rim if you choose not to stay at the park like we did. We bought Chief class (like first class equivalent) tkts which allows is to go to the panoramic view cars as well as enjoy the back balcony of the train since we were on the last car. Snacks are pretty average they could do a bit better. On the way back try the special cocktails they were really good. If you are lucky like we were you will be in a car full of funny sarcastic elderly folks who made our trip hilarious specially when the “bandits” hopped on the train to “rob” everyone. Our server was also really nice. Don’t miss the pre-boarding western show at the hotel.
Written October 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and feedback, we're pleased that you enjoyed the trip! Best, GCRH Team
Written November 4, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Louis N
Johnson City, TN151 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
We rode the train from Williams to the South Rim on a beautiful October day. It was not the season for the steam engine so we had to settle for diesel power. The car hosts were entertaining and informative and the roving musicians were a delight. Well worth the time and expense. Be sure and ask your car host how the south rim building are laid out to avoid loosing time wandering around and missing any critical points of interest.
Written October 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good afternoon, Thank you for your review and feedback, we're pleased that you enjoyed the ride! Best, GCRH Team
Written November 4, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

justin b
Sheffield, UK126 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2023 • Couples
We would definitely recommend this train ride to the south rim of the grand canyon, the staff on the train are really good, every car has its own staff member taking care of you, ours was Dennis, he went above and beyond with every passenger to make the train journey enjoyable, if its a hot time of year when you go definitely take the air conditioned cars. The train ride itself is so relaxing we could have taken the car but this way was so much better. Pick up lunch before you go in willams, there's a sandwich shop where you can order the day before and pick up on your way to the station, food options are a little limited at the grand canyon village.
Written September 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! Regards, GCR&H Team
Written October 3, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Grand Canyon Railway - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2025)

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