We checked in the the Grand Canyon Railway hotel after 3 in the afternoon. The town is only two blocks away and is an adorable little cowboy town themed with Route 66. There are many restaurants right in town. Check-in is easy, the rooms are updated and clean, and there is a nice bar at the hotel.
We bought the meal package which was great for breakfast but mediocre for dinner. Next time, we'll just have breakfast before the train ride and eat dinners in town. There is a silly cowboy shootout at 9:00 am before the train leaves, but it is a great fun way to start your day and set the mood if you are interested.
We boarded the train at 9:15 - in the observation seats. It was a quiet, adult car with a lovely hostess. You get coffee, soda, pastries and fruit along with water with your ticket in this car. On the way home, we bought coach tickets which was a really great plan. Arizona Dave entertained us all the way home - and there is a surprise but I won't ruin it for you which is also silly but fun! Both ways we were entertained with a guitar player who sang familiar songs, and an accordion player who had the whole car singing with her!
We booked a bus tour which was a great way to see two amazing lookouts. You don't need to do this, though, because the shuttles are free and visit the same places. They can get crowded however, and the bus was right there next to the train, ready to leave, with a wonderful narration by the driver.
Bring money for tips - not huge but appreciated by the wonderful people who work hard to make sure your day is a memorable experience! The staff knows how to direct you to what you want to see and eat, and how the South Rim village works for shuttles.
We didn't need to drive anywhere, and it was probably one of the best touring experiences for a day trip we have ever had.