9 Epic Train Rides In Arizona For That Wonderful Scenic Experience You Need
Train rides are a timeless activity enjoyed across all age groups. They’re nostalgic, turning back the clock to simpler days when looking out the window was our only option on long car rides. If you want to be whisked away on a magical journey into the Arizona countryside, here are nine unforgettable opportunities:
Please note, Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club and Old Tucson Studios are temporarily closed.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
A vintage train whisks riders away on a four-hour, 20-mile ride through the wilderness. Sit in an open-air viewing car and marvel at Verde Canyon’s towering red rocks and panoramic vistas, which are only accessible via rail. Wildlife abounds along the train route, including majestic Bald Eagles soaring high above the desert landscape. The railroad hosts various seasonal events and special rides all year long, including the family-friendly Easter Bunny Express coming up on Saturday, April 20, 2019. Click here for more information.
Once used to transport ore through Arizona’s mining towns, Grand Canyon Railway has been around since 1901. Six different classes range from standard coach to a luxury lounge on wheels with bar service and snacks, but they all share one commonality: the undeniable historic charm of vintage railroad cars. Listen to the crew tell stories about the Old West as you whirl through desert, prairie, and pine terrain. The best part? Getting to explore the Grand Canyon for almost three hours before departing! More information can be found here.
Dedicated to preserving railroad heritage, the Maricopa Live Steamers offers free rides on its miniature railroad. The four different routes are all about 30 minutes long and feature abundant plant and animal life, including vibrant wildflowers during springtime. The train runs from September though mid-May from noon to 4:30 p.m.
For those in search of a short and sweet ride, Daisy Mountain Railroad is a perfect choice. The trip only lasts about 10 minutes, managing to cram in a tunnel, lake, and hillside views. After the ride, children can enjoy a spacious playground, soccer fields, and skateboard ramps. Click here for more information.
This 30-acre railroad park features a museum, indoor model trains, playground, and even a vintage Herschell carousel, making for an unforgettable family outing. Visitors can ride on the Paradise & Pacific, an exact replica of a Colorado narrow-gauge railroad. There’s also a lesser-known Arboretum Train on weekends that takes you on a 10-minute loop through the park’s desert gardens! So many activities to keep the fun going all day long. More information can be found here.
Old Tucson Studios is like a Western movie come to life. Stagecoaches, horseback rides, a shooting gallery, and mine tours take visitors back in time to the days of Bonnie & Clyde. The C.P. Huntington Train is a journey through the Sonoran Desert, featuring Saguaros and other aspects of our unique landscape. Rides are included with admission! Click here for more information.
Every tourist’s favorite ghost town features an array of activities like a zipline, live gunfights, gold panning, and off-road tours. This 36" gauge train consists of a Plymouth diesel, passenger car, and caboose. During the ride, the conductor will tell stories about the history of Goldfield, the Superstition Mountains, and the American Southwest as a whole. It departs every 30 minutes for a 20-minute trip. More information can be found here.
Live country music, gunfights, and mouthwatering steak are the defining characteristics of this Wild West theme park. This train runs along a relaxing riverfront path, with rides lasting about ten minutes. Please note: Rawhide is only open to the public for special events. Click here for more information.
Kids have an absolute blast on this breezy, open-top train. The 3/4-mile ride winds through lush green grass and a pristine, sparkling lake - a perfect springtime activity for the whole family. Desert Breeze Railroad runs from Labor Day to Memorial Day. For more information, click here.
How many of these train rides have you taken? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know!
To read more about the model train park at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, check out This Indoor Train Park Hiding In Arizona Proves There’s Still A Kid In All Of Us.
