Grand Canyon Railway offers a classic Arizona adventure with a sense of history, charm, and family-friendly fun. Since 1901, this beloved railway has carried guests from Williams to the South Rim on lovingly restored rail cars, wi...
Grand Canyon Railway offers a classic Arizona adventure with a sense of history, charm, and family-friendly fun. Since 1901, this beloved railway has carried guests from Williams to the South Rim on lovingly restored rail cars, wi...
The Chief is an classic streamliner-era parlor car that immediately transports you back to the golden age of rail travel. The interior features rich wood paneling, plush carpet, and large picture windows. What sets it apart from lower tiers is the seating arrangement: instead of standard fixed pairs, you get comfortable, padded lounge chairs and sofa-style seating designed for relaxing, socializing, and taking in the passing high-country scenery. The onboard amenities in the Chief car are a major perk: Complimentary Refreshments: Morning service includes pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice. On the return trip, you’re greeted with a generous spread of cheese, crackers, fruit, and snacks. The car features its own dedicated bar, offering complimentary soft drinks as well as beer, wine, and spirits for purchase. Don't skip trying one of their signature railway cocktails on the ride home. The true highlight of the Chief car is the dedicated passenger service attendant. They manage the bar, keep snacks replenished, and act as a knowledgeable local host—sharing fascinating history about the railway, the surrounding Kaibab National Forest, and the Grand Canyon itself. You still get the full train experience—including the live acoustic musicians who travel between cars playing classic western tunes and the lighthearted "train robbery" re-enactment on the return leg—but with a much more exclusive, uncrowded feel.
Phil Morales
August 29, 2026
The Chief is an classic streamliner-era parlor car that immediately transports you back to the golden age of rail travel. The interior features rich wood paneling, plush carpet, and large picture windows. What sets it apart from lower tiers is the seating arrangement: instead of standard fixed pairs, you get comfortable, padded lounge chairs and sofa-style seating designed for relaxing, socializing, and taking in the passing high-country scenery. The onboard amenities in the Chief car are a major perk: Complimentary Refreshments: Morning service includes pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and juice. On the return trip, you’re greeted with a generous spread of cheese, crackers, fruit, and snacks. The car features its own dedicated bar, offering complimentary soft drinks as well as beer, wine, and spirits for purchase. Don't skip trying one of their signature railway cocktails on the ride home. The true highlight of the Chief car is the dedicated passenger service attendant. They manage the bar, keep snacks replenished, and act as a knowledgeable local host—sharing fascinating history about the railway, the surrounding Kaibab National Forest, and the Grand Canyon itself. You still get the full train experience—including the live acoustic musicians who travel between cars playing classic western tunes and the lighthearted "train robbery" re-enactment on the return leg—but with a much more exclusive, uncrowded feel.
Phil Morales
August 29, 2026