The highlights: the staff was wonderful. Each and every person demonstrated extra care in showing us they were glad to have us. The exterior of the hotel is a bit “vanilla”, but the interior is beautiful. The lobby had a fire roaring, the rooms were well-designed, including a refrigerator, a desk, modern bathrooms, and comfortable beds. The adjacent restaurant is very cute with a miniature train running above us and around the restaurant. We purchased first class tickets for the train and were not disappointed. I can’t see how the observation cars (more expensive) would be worth the extra price. Our car had it’s own personal “train attendant” whose job was to welcome us, set out snacks and free non-alcoholic drinks, serve drinks/beer/wine from the bar, and provide park information. Also, there focus on sustainability and recycling was very evident and appreciated.
We booked online, and while it was very easy for us to book for me and my kids—trying to add my parents on to our reservation was nearly impossible. They ended up booking separately, and our requests to stay next to each other, and be seated in the same car worked out just fine.
We knew that the train option would mean less time in the park, and indeed our 3.5 hours on the ground at the Park went by really fast. But, due to the ages of the kids and the limited mobility of some in our party, it was fine for us. I looked at this experience as part Grand Canyon, and part train experience.
I’m not a big fan of buffets, but all-in-all, the food was very good. We had two dinners and two breakfasts with our two nights in the hotel. We managed to “time” our visit to the restaurant for dinner at 6:15-6:30 with NO wait either time. Seems as if this was the “magic” time between trains. Each time we left dinner, the line was OUT the door. We never had to wait for breakfast. Please don’t forget to tip your waitresses! It’s a buffet, but they do a great job at bringing all kinds of included drinks and everyone was very friendly. The coffee was good, too.
If you are seeking an “all-in-one” food, hotel, train, Grand Canyon experience—-this is a really fun time. There is also entertainment in the restaurant, and on the train. A quick reservation and everything is taken care of for you...no planning, just show up.
Williams, AZ—you made us feel very welcome. And, this was a “one and done” experience for our family—thank you for making it awesome!