We planned a trip to AZ over the holidays. We spent four days in Phoenix and two in Sedona and Williams. We got package tickets for both the Grand Canyon Railway and the hotel. We had gotten a recommendation from family, who had taken the train a few months earlier. This was, easily, the highlight of our trip. The staff made the train ride so entertaining. They even staged a fun Wild West shootout before loading the train and the train robbery on the way back was the best! Our kids, aged four and nine, were totally bought in and so concerned that the bad guys were going to take all of our money (even after we ended up reassuring them it was just for fun)! We had three hours, at leisure, to explore the canyon. Even though we were there during the off-peak season, and during COVID with a few areas shut down, this was still plenty of time for us, with young children in tow. We had time to see the canyon, take our pics, eat lunch (at El Tovar Dining Room - I would recommend! The staff was excellent, but either make a reservation before you go or wait the 40 mins for a table when you get there), and hit up the souvenir shops (there were at least five of them at the entrance they took us to) before heading back to the train. Our seats, on the way to the Canyon, were coach and first class on the way back. The only reason we had different seats was because we booked last minute and that’s all that was left. If you’re able to have the option, I actually preferred coach. It just seemed more authentic. The first class seats made me feel like I was sitting on a coach bus.
There was also a “Polar Express” train, in the evening, that we would have loved to take our kids on, but since this was our first time go the Grand Canyon, we wanted to go during the day to see it the best.
The hotel wasn’t anything fancy and I thought a little overpriced, but I get why they charge more. You are paying for convenience and an experience, not just a hotel. The front desk staff was extremely friendly and helpful, not to mention the lady who helped me book our tickets over the phone. The pool was open, but a time limit was suggested. We had tickets for the buffet too, which was pretty good.
One thing to note...I was confused as to whether or not we had to pay a separate entrance fee to get into the Grand Canyon, but when I checked with the front desk, they did tell me that our train tickets included the park admission - just in case you’re wondering. Also, the canyon entrance the train takes you to has a restaurant at the hotel not far from that entrance and I believe there was a food truck there too.
All in all - such a memorable experience for us! I would highly recommend the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel!