9 Epic Train Rides In Arizona For That Wonderful Scenic Experience You Need
Arizona train rides are a timeless activity enjoyed across all age groups. Trains in Arizona are 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 unforgettably scenic train rides Arizona.
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. Visit the Verde Canyon Railroad website 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 on the Grand Canyon Railway website.
Grand Canyon Railway Resort - Williams, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
3. Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club (Glendale)
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 trains run seasonally, so make sure to check out the Maricopa Live Steamers website for the schedule prior to visiting.
Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club, 22822 N 43rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85310, USA
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. Check out the Daisy Mountain Railroad website 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 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 on the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park website.
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, USA
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 and 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! Check out the Old Tucson Studios website 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-inch 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 on the Goldfield Ghost Town website.
Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc., 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, USA
8. Rawhide Western Town and Event Center (Chandler)
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 10 minutes. Please note: Rawhide is only open to the public for special events. Visit the Rawhide Western Town and Event Center website 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 operates seasonally during the summertime (typically from Labor Day to Memorial Day). For more information, visit the Desert Breeze Railroad website.
Desert Breeze Railroad, 660 North Desert Breeze Blvd E, Chandler, AZ 85226, USA
How many of these Arizona train rides have you taken? If so, which ones and what did you think? Did we miss any of your favorite trains in Arizona? Whatever it is, let us know!
Arizona train rides aren’t the only way railroad enthusiasts can have some fun in the Grand Canyon State. There are plenty of other options. For instance, there’s an indoor train park in Arizona that visitors of all ages are sure to love.
Address: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, USA
Address: Grand Canyon Railway Resort - Williams, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Address: Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club, 22822 N 43rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85310, USA
Address: Daisy Mountain Railroad, Phoenix, AZ 85086, USA
Address: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, USA
Address: 201 S Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735, USA
Address: Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc., 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, USA
Address: Rawhide Western Town & Event Center
Address: Desert Breeze Railroad, 660 North Desert Breeze Blvd E, Chandler, AZ 85226, USA
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Arizona Train Rides
September 15, 2022
Daniella DiRienzo
What is the most popular train restaurant in Arizona?
Arizona train rides aren’t the only way train enthusiasts can have some fun. There are also train-themed establishments, like The Crown Railroad Café. Located in the heart of Flagstaff along Route 66, it’s a must-visit destination sought out by locals and travelers alike – and for good reason. Established in the 1960s, the iconic café is famous for its made-from-scratch cooking and big portions of classic diner grub, including omelettes. The food isn’t the only thing The Crown Railroad Café is famous for, though. There’s also its electric train display, which is the largest in northern Arizona.
What’s the most beautiful hike in Arizona?
Scenic train rides Arizona aren’t the only way to soak in the state’s stunning vistas. Hiking trails are also an option for those seeking stellar views. And while there are lots of beautiful hikes in Arizona, the Superstition Ridgeline Trail ranks pretty high up there. Spanning nearly 12 miles one way and boasting thousands of feet in elevation gain, it’s far from an easy hike; however, it’s worth the effort, as it features close-up views of the Superstition Mountains. What’s more, the rocky landscape offers some of the best backpacking in the state. Some complete the trail in one day, while others turn it into an epic overnight adventure. Either way, you’ll want to bring plenty of water, as there isn’t any water access along the route.
Address: 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, USA
Address: Grand Canyon Railway Resort - Williams, Williams, AZ 86046, USA
Address: Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club, 22822 N 43rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85310, USA
Address: Daisy Mountain Railroad, Phoenix, AZ 85086, USA
Address: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, USA
Address: 201 S Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735, USA
Address: Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine Tours Inc., 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, USA
Address: Rawhide Western Town & Event Center
Address: Desert Breeze Railroad, 660 North Desert Breeze Blvd E, Chandler, AZ 85226, USA
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
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Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
