While driving across the USA we stopped for two nights in Williams with an inclusive package consisting of a round trip to the Grand Canyon (130 miles), two nights lodging and four meals. The trip itself was enjoyable and unique and the hotel/restaurant offering was good. Comments:
1. Inclusive of meals, accommodations and entertainment, the overall cost of the package can be pretty high. You might be able to save some by handling hotel/restaurant individually. The Grand Canyon Railroad Hotel and Fred Harvey package did not materially detract from the experience, but didn’t add much to it either.
2. The train comes to a part of the Grand Canyon NP somewhat distant from Mather Point. We liked this as Bright Angel has fewer crowds and views as good as Mather Point.
3. The Fred Harvey Restaurant was very crowded on Saturday evening with a line awaiting table out the door. By request, the hotel management can convert the meal voucher to a voucher for bar food at the hotel bar. This worked well for us.
4. The rail experience stand on its own. The gun fight and train robbery are well done but maybe unnecessary for adults.
Overall, the Grand Canyon Railway is a great way to experience travel by rail and the Grand Canyon National Park. Highly recommended.