Let's tackle the bad first: the included buffet dinner and breakfast at the hotel are bad. All I can say is that it's food, and I took off a point for that. Otherwise, what a nice hotel and what a fabulous way to go to the Canyon. We had the luxury package. It's WAY expensive, but it was SO special. There was my wife and son plus two other passengers. No kids under 15 allowed. Lack of passengers in our (observation) car really made it exclusive. We had access to the rear car (with the balcony on back), and any car we wanted since our tix gave us full access). There's a less expensive observation car that allows kids. We had a great time both on the train and at the Canyon. I would recommend booking a bus tour at the Canyon, since you're on your own when you get to the Canyon and you don't have a whole lot of time. Eating at the El Tovar is really pleasant (LOVE the atmosphere) and the food and wine are excellent.