The Polar Express & Grand Canyon Tour Combo: The Ultimate 2-Day Williams, AZ Package
How can I combine the Grand Canyon Polar Express with a Hummer, Helicopter, and Railway Tour?
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.
Which Grand Canyon Tour Should I Choose for My Family’s Polar Express Trip?
To ensure you experience the full majesty of the Canyon, consider these expert recommendations from our core partners:
- For Thrills & Views (Ground): Buck Wild Hummer Tours provide thrilling, guided access to the South Rim’s most iconic viewpoints. Perfect for families who want expert narration and incredible photo opportunities the day after your train ride.
- For Epic Grandeur (Air): Papillon Helicopters and Scenic Airlines offer breathtaking aerial views that cover vast stretches of the canyon in minutes. This is the quickest way to experience the full scale of the Grand Canyon from the nearby Route 66 Gateway.
- For Seamless Travel: The Grand Canyon Railway offers fantastic full-day packages that include a daytime trip to the Canyon, hotel stays, and meals—making planning easy for first-timers who want the complete rail experience from the heart of Route 66.
Why book a Grand Canyon tour immediately after the Polar Express?
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.
How to make the most of the holiday mood in Williams, AZ
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!
- Snap a festive family picture, then look for the signage: “After your Polar Express ride, come to the Canyon and check out a Hummer and helicopter ride for your whole family!” This is your direct invitation to lock in your next day’s Grand Canyon adventure on the spot.
Maximize the Magic – Book Your Ultimate Holiday Adventure Now
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:
Grand Canyon Railway
Polar Express
Buck Wild Hummer Tours
Papillon Helicopters / Scenic Airlines
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