The magic of the Polar Express is undeniable, drawing families to Williams, AZ, every holiday season. But the journey only lasts 90 minutes. You’ve traveled all this way! We show you how to turn that single night of holiday cheer into an epic 2-day Grand Canyon adventure, seamlessly linking your festive evening with world-class daytime tours that fulfill the ultimate Grand Canyon dream.
The secret to maximizing your holiday trip lies in a simple, highly effective strategy: Polar Express at Night, Grand Canyon Tour by Day. The train dedicates your evening to the North Pole experience, leaving your entire next day free for the real spectacle: the Grand Canyon South Rim.
The Route 66 Connection: Your Gateway to Adventure
The Grand Canyon Railway itself is a piece of American heritage, built in 1901. But the entire experience is anchored in Williams, Arizona—The Last Town Bypassed by I-40—a jewel of Route 66 heritage. When you visit Williams for the Polar Express, you are standing on the historic Mother Road. Our goal is to leverage that Route 66 history and your stay in this authentic gateway to ensure your family experiences all three core Grand Canyon modes of travel: Ground, Air, and Rail.
To ensure you experience the full majesty of the Canyon, consider these expert recommendations from our core partners:
Because your Day 1 is already filled with holiday magic. Day 2 deserves an adventure just as magical.
A morning or midday Hummer or Helicopter tour makes the most of your limited daylight hours and adds real impact to your trip. These partner tours handle the transportation and guiding, ensuring you don’t waste precious time navigating on your own. This is the most efficient use of your time after dedicating an evening to the holiday fun.
Williams transforms into a winter wonderland for the Polar Express, anchored right on Route 66. After your train ride, look for the special, fully decorated Buck Wild Hummer, often parked near the Depot, which is decked out in holiday lights and perfect for photos!
Don’t let your Grand Canyon adventure end after the North Pole. Pair your Polar Express journey with an unforgettable South Rim tour—and create a true two-day memory in Williams.
Our goal is for you to experience all three modes of travel: Rail, Ground, and Air, starting from historic Route 66!
Book now through our Core Partner links below to secure your spot:
The Route 66 Boarding Pass is your Passport to Savings in Northern Arizona. No purchase necessary, no app to install, just download the Boarding Pass and start saving on your next Northern Arizona Adventure.
And don’t forget to enter the contest to win a Route 66-Grand Prize Package that includes lodging, a Grand Canyon Railway ride, a Private Hummer Tour, a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour, meals and more.
The Grand Canyon National Park is a short drive from Route 66, and once you’re in Northern Arizona exploring Route 66, you HAVE to take a detour to visit this natural wonder. Tusayan is the closest town to the Grand Canyon South Rim Entrance, and our Boarding Pass Partners are waiting for you to come and explore!
Exhilarating helicopter tours at the Grand Canyon National Park provide a bird’s eye view of this amazing wonder. Choose from 25 or 45 Minute Tours offered multiple times daily.
Save $10 per person
Choose Signature, Sunset or Hiking Tours and explore the best viewpoints at the Grand Canyon with a professional guide who will share history and information.
Save $5 per person.
Fly over the incredible sights of the Grand Canyon’s South and East Rims: impressive aerial views of ancient rock formations, the Kaibab Forest, & the Colorado River between the canyon walls.
Save $10 per person
A Grand Canyon Institution for over 50 years, Big E Steakhouse and Saloon provides unforgettable dining experiences with a large menu and the friendliest servers in the area..
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Amazing selection of sweet treats including fudge, caramel apples, chocolate covered strawberries and delicious gelato. Specialty Coffees are plentiful and satisfying.
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One mile from the entrance to Grand Canyon National Park, our hotel is an idyllic retreat for vacations. Explore the beauty of the canyon by day & unwind in our Southwestern-style suites by night
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