Las Vegas 2-Day Grand Canyon Railway Bearizona Meteor Crater

If you’re looking to escape the bright lights of Las Vegas and learn about America’s southwestern landscape and history, this 2-day tour offers a well-rounded experience. For $345 per person, you’ll journey through iconic sights like the Grand Canyon, the Meteor Crater, and Bearizona Wildlife Park, all while traveling comfortably with roundtrip transportation and hotel accommodations. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip combines adventure, culture, and a bit of fun — especially on the historic Grand Canyon Railway.

Two aspects really stand out. First, the train ride to the Grand Canyon offers a nostalgic glimpse into how early visitors experienced this natural wonder — a peaceful yet lively journey filled with entertainment. Second, the inclusion of Bearizona Wildlife Park allows you to see North American animals in their habitats, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an authentic encounter with wildlife.

A possible consideration is that this tour involves a fair amount of driving and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with flexibility and some physical activity. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and fun.

If you love scenic train rides, wildlife encounters, and learning about Arizona’s past, this tour aligns well with your interests. Just keep in mind that some attractions have additional entrance fees, and you’ll want to plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Authentic Train Experience: Ride on the historic Grand Canyon Railway, a highlight that offers scenic views and old-fashioned charm.
• Wildlife Encounters: Visit Bearizona Wildlife Park, a 160-acre space showcasing North American animals in naturalistic habitats.
• Historic Route 66: Explore the iconic highway’s past at the Kingman Powerhouse and Route 66 Museum.
• Spectacular Views: Witness the stunning vistas of the Grand Canyon and Meteor Crater, both geological marvels.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages with a mix of relaxed sightseeing and engaging activities.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, hotel, and some entrance permits, making it a convenient package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Arizona Adventure

Day 1: From Las Vegas to the Heart of Arizona

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Las Vegas, which is often prompt and comfortable thanks to air-conditioned vehicles. Your first stop is the Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman, housed in the historic Powerhouse. This is more than just a roadside exhibit; it’s a vivid look at how this legendary highway shaped the American West. For those interested in Americana, vintage cars, and stories of potholed roads and neon signs, this museum offers a compact yet insightful window into Route 66’s heyday. The entry fee is modest — about $4 for adults — but the stories you’ll hear and see are priceless.

Next, the tour shifts gears to Bearizona Wildlife Park, a true highlight. Covering nearly 160 acres, this park provides a chance to see over 30 kinds of North American animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The drive-through section is especially engaging, providing a safe, up-close view of animals like bison, wolves, and bears. For those who enjoy walking through a scenic area, there’s a 20-acre walk-through zone with winding paths. We loved how the park feels genuine, not overly commercialized, giving a real sense of wilderness.

Lunch at Bearizona isn’t included, but there’s a spot to grab something and recharge before heading to Meteor Crater. This impact site, about 50,000 years old, is awe-inspiring and feels like stepping onto another planet. Here, you can learn about how a 150-foot-wide meteorite created a crater with an impact force over 150 times that of an atomic bomb. It’s a sobering reminder of Earth’s dynamic history, and the visitor center offers engaging exhibits, making it perfect for families and science buffs alike.

Day 2: From Williams to the Grand Canyon

Rising early, you’ll head to Williams, where the historic Grand Canyon Railway station awaits. The train ride itself is a nostalgic journey that blends storytelling, music, and fun — a chance to see the landscape roll by in style. The guide or conductor often shares interesting tidbits about the area’s history, and you might find yourself chicken dancing or watching a humorous cowboy “robbery” scene. This part of the trip is both relaxing and entertaining, offering a different perspective than driving.

Upon arriving at the Grand Canyon Village, you’ll have approximately 3.5 hours for independent exploration. The views from the rim are breathtaking — layers of rock in red, orange, and brown tell a story millions of years in the making. We recommend grabbing a seat on the rim trail or at one of the viewpoints to truly appreciate this natural wonder. Keep in mind, the canyon is vast, so plan your time wisely to see what most interests you.

In the afternoon, you’ll reboard the train for the 2.5-hour return trip. The scenic journey back offers more chances to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and even snap a few last photos of the landscape. The trip concludes with hotel drop-off back in Las Vegas.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour gives a well-rounded taste of Arizona’s natural and cultural landscape. The train ride is particularly memorable because it echoes the way early explorers and travelers experienced the canyon — slowly and in style. The Wildlife Park adds an interactive element, allowing you to see animals you might only read about, making it excellent for children and animal lovers.

The combination of geological wonders like Meteor Crater and the Grand Canyon captures the imagination, adding depth to your understanding of Earth’s history. Plus, the inclusion of historic Route 66 offers a nostalgic look at American mobility and roadside culture, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfort and Convenience

The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, and permits for national parks make it a practical choice. The small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. The hotel stay includes breakfast, which helps start your day on the right foot.

Considerations and Tips

While the experience is comprehensive, some attractions have additional entrance fees (Bearizona $35, Meteor Crater $29, Railway pass $90), which are not included in the base price. Budget accordingly if you wish to visit all sites. Also, be prepared for outdoor walking and some exposure to the sun, especially at the canyon and meteor crater.

Travelers with limited mobility might find certain parts challenging, particularly the walking and the terrain at Bearizona. It’s a physically active itinerary, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Arizona’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates scenic train rides. If you value authentic, well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides, this package will meet your expectations.

It’s especially suitable if you want a balance of guided experiences and free time to explore at your own pace. The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose your own adventures at the Grand Canyon, making it a memorable, worry-free way to experience this part of the American Southwest.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $345 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, a one-night hotel stay with breakfast, and a national park permit. Guides are also included.

Are there any optional costs?
Yes, entrance passes for Bearizona ($35), Meteor Crater ($29), and the Grand Canyon Railway ($90) are not included. You might also want to buy meals or souvenirs.

How long is the train ride?
The train from Williams to the Grand Canyon South Rim lasts approximately 2.5 hours each way, offering scenic views and entertainment.

Can I customize my experience?
While the itinerary is set, you have about 3.5 hours at the Grand Canyon to explore independently. This allows some flexibility for viewpoints or short walks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly, especially with the engaging train ride and wildlife encounters. Be aware of outdoor activity levels and prepare accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, reusable water bottle, and possibly motion sickness prevention if needed.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is open to most ages, but small children or those with mobility issues might find certain parts more challenging.

How do I pay?
You can reserve your spot with a “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing flexible booking. Full payment is due before the tour date.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, making it easy to plan with confidence.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Las Vegas offers a carefully curated look into Arizona’s most captivating sights, blending natural wonders with historical insights. The combination of scenic train rides, wildlife encounters, and iconic geological sites makes it a value-packed option for travelers wanting a multi-faceted experience without the hassle of self-driving or booking multiple tickets.

We appreciate how the tour balances guided convenience with free time at the Grand Canyon, and the small group setting enhances the overall experience. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to see the Southwest’s highlights in a manageable, memorable trip.

If you’re eager to witness the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, enjoy wildlife, and explore Route 66’s legacy, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for some outdoor time and additional entrance costs if you wish to see everything.

Happy travels — and don’t forget your camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: