Took the train from Williams to Grand Canyon Village.
I pre paid tickets and the information said to be there by 8:30 AM to check in. However the train did not leave till 9:45. Not a big deal but it seems you can arrive anytime and still be fine. All it did was cram hundreds of people in the gift shop and diner at the train station. Next time ill arrive at 9. Just know that if you are not an hour early, its no big deal.
COACH - We had a family of 4 and took Coach to the Grand Canyon. I was surprised as the view from Coach. The seats were bigger than I expected and had no issues with space. I am 6'-2" tall and was worried about leg space. My daughter and I shared a seat and was fine. the windows are huge and endless views. There is a bathroom in the car and fresh water available to fill your own bottles. The staff was very encouraging to fill your water and keep hydrated. Coach was much better than I expected. For the cost savings, it's a great train ride.
First Class - We took the first class back to Williams from the Grand Canyon. This was completely awesome. Very tall, reclining, wide seats. There are 4 seats that face each other 2x2. You have a little table between the seats. Obviously 2 people will b effacing backwards which was fine. This is a much more quiet, personal ride compared to the Coach ride. This was a 2 story car and had the seats with the overhead windows on the top level. In my opinion, the First Class was better than the View fop deck seats. They seemed to be in direct sun light. It was tented glass but I like the bottom First Class better. There is also unlimited snacks and drinks included in the Bar section of the car. A pretty good selection of alcohol and free juice, lemonade, soda, and water. Also had crackers, cheese, hummus, and vegetables. It was a very nice relaxing ride back with food after a few hours of hiking at the Canyon. We absolutely loved the First Class ride. It was pure comfort.
When comparing the two rides, the Coach was fine. It did the job and still had a good seat and amazing view. The First Class was just better. Worth the extra money? Not sure. If I never rode First Class I would have been happy with coach. After going First Class, Ill pay the extra and go First Class next time too. I though it was worth it.
Entertainment - During both rides there are cowboys that walk through and entertain a little bit. It was fun for the kids. There is also live music with a guy playing a banjo or a violin. They both did a great job. The crowd didn't exactly interact like they wanted. The trip home most people were tired and in the First Class car, we just wanted a quiet ride. Half the people fell asleep until the banjo arrived. But he did an amazing job and we enjoyed it.
Overall - We loved the entire trip. Train was so much fun. Kids loved it. I do wish there was more time at the Grand Canyon. We only had 3 hours. Depending on what your plans are that may be enough time anyway. This is a must do if going to Williams. I do suggest you pack a lunch. The food available at the Grand Canyon Village was very crowded, limited selection, and expensive. With only 3 hours there, you may spend at least an hour to get food.