10 Arizona Scenic Train Trips That Make Perfect Weekend Getaways
Arizona offers more than desert landscapes and cacti. The state features incredible train rides that wind through canyons, mountains, and historic towns.
These rail adventures let you relax while enjoying breathtaking views you cannot see from the highway, making them ideal for memorable weekend escapes.
1. Grand Canyon Railway
Picture yourself riding a historic train straight to one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. This railway departs from Williams and takes you on a 65-mile journey to the South Rim.
Wild West characters entertain passengers during the ride, adding fun to the scenic experience. You will have several hours to explore the canyon before returning.
The train runs year-round with different themed rides throughout the seasons.
2. Apache Trail Railway
Ever wondered what mining towns looked like during Arizona’s gold rush days? This narrow-gauge railway recreates that experience near Apache Junction.
The 90-minute ride takes you through desert scenery with views of the Superstition Mountains. Your guide shares fascinating stories about lost gold mines and frontier life.
Kids especially love this adventure because the train feels like stepping into an Old West movie.
3. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Families with young children will find this Scottsdale attraction absolutely delightful. The park features a 5/12-scale railroad that circles a beautifully landscaped area filled with railroad memorabilia.
You can also explore vintage train cars and a carousel between rides. The short journey is perfect for little ones who might get restless on longer trips.
Admission costs very little, making this an affordable weekend activity.
4. White Mountain Scenic Railroad
Escaping the desert heat becomes easy when you board this mountain railway. Departing from Eager, the train climbs through forests of ponderosa pines and aspens.
The cooler mountain air and changing seasons create a completely different Arizona experience. Fall rides showcase brilliant golden aspens that contrast beautifully with evergreens.
This trip proves Arizona offers much more diversity than most people realize.
5. Williams Depot Heritage Train
Williams holds the title of Gateway to the Grand Canyon, and its depot tells fascinating railroad stories. Before heading to the canyon, you can explore shorter heritage rides that showcase the town’s railroad history.
The depot itself is a beautifully restored 1908 building worth photographing. Local guides share tales about Route 66 and the golden age of train travel.
Combine this with exploring Williams’ charming downtown for a complete weekend.
6. Old Tucson Studios Train Ride
Hollywood comes alive at this famous movie location where countless Westerns were filmed. The train ride takes you through authentic sets used in classic films and television shows.
You might recognize locations from your favorite Western movies as you pass by. Stunt shows and period-dressed actors add extra entertainment throughout the park.
This combination of train ride and theme park creates memories that last forever.
7. Verde Canyon Railroad
Riding through a canyon inaccessible by car makes this journey truly special. The four-hour round trip follows the Verde River through stunning red rock formations and ancient Native American ruins.
I recommend booking the open-air viewing car for the best photo opportunities. Wildlife like bald eagles, javelinas, and great blue herons frequently appear along the route.
Comfortable seating and onboard refreshments make the experience relaxing and enjoyable.
8. Flagstaff Railroad Heritage
Flagstaff’s railroad history runs deep, and seasonal heritage trains celebrate that legacy beautifully. The town sits along historic transcontinental routes that shaped the American West.
Special excursions run during holidays, featuring themed decorations and entertainment for all ages. Mountain views and pine forests provide a refreshing change from typical Arizona landscapes.
The cooler elevation makes this destination comfortable even during summer months.
9. Yuma Valley Railway
Step back in time aboard a vintage locomotive that winds through Yuma’s agricultural heartland. The journey showcases endless fields of lettuce and citrus groves, offering passengers a unique glimpse into Arizona’s farming heritage that many visitors never experience.
Kids absolutely love the conductor’s stories about railroad history while watching the landscape transform from desert to green farmland. The cool breeze through open windows makes this ride especially pleasant during spring and fall weekends.
Local volunteers maintain these historic cars with dedication, preserving a piece of Arizona’s transportation past. Tickets remain affordable for families, and the two-hour round trip includes stops at historic markers where you can stretch your legs and snap photos of the surrounding countryside.
10. Copper Spike Train at Asarco Mineral Discovery Center
Ever wonder what it feels like to ride through an actual working copper mine? The Copper Spike Train offers a unique 20-minute journey around one of Arizona’s most fascinating industrial sites near Tucson. Families love this educational adventure because kids get to see massive mining equipment up close while learning about copper production.
The open-air train cars provide excellent views of the Santa Rita Mountains and the sprawling mining operations below. Tour guides share entertaining stories about Arizona’s copper mining heritage, which helped build the state’s economy. Best of all, admission is incredibly affordable, making this an excellent budget-friendly weekend activity.
Pack sunscreen and hats since the desert sun can be intense during summer months. The entire experience lasts about an hour, leaving plenty of time to explore nearby Tucson attractions afterward.
