Las Vegas 2-Day Grand Canyon Railway Bearizona Meteor Crater

Experience the Best of Arizona’s Natural Wonders and Historic Sites in Two Days

This 2-day tour from Las Vegas offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Arizona’s most iconic sights, including the Grand Canyon, Bearizona Wildlife Park, Meteor Crater, and the Route 66 Museum. Priced at $345 per person and rated 4.7 out of 5, this trip is ideal for those seeking an engaging mix of nature, history, and adventure with comfortable accommodations.

The tour features roundtrip transportation, a hotel stay with breakfast, and guided commentary in both English and Chinese, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers. While the included passes for some attractions require additional fees, the experience delivers memorable sights and unique activities, especially for families and curious explorers.

A key highlight is the train ride along the historic Grand Canyon Railway, providing a scenic and nostalgic way to reach the South Rim. The tour also balances self-guided exploration with guided insights, making it suitable for those who appreciate both independence and expert narration.

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Key Points

• Two-day guided tour starting from Las Vegas with hotel accommodation and breakfast included
• Ride a historic train on the Grand Canyon Railway to the South Rim
• Visit Arizona Route 66 Museum at the historic Kingman Powerhouse
• Explore Bearizona Wildlife Park with a drive-through and walk-through area to see North American animals
• Discover the Meteor Crater outside Flagstaff, formed over 50,000 years ago
• Includes roundtrip transportation and a national park permit; some attraction passes are extra

How the Tour Combines Historic Route 66 and Natural Wonders

This tour uniquely blends Arizona’s cultural history with its stunning landscapes. The first day begins with a visit to the Arizona Route 66 Museum, located inside the historic Kingman Powerhouse. Here, travelers learn about the iconic highway’s origins and its significance in American travel. The museum’s exhibits depict the evolution of Route 66 along the 35th parallel, providing context for the region’s development.

Following this, the tour heads to Bearizona Wildlife Park, a 160-acre space where visitors can drive through three miles of ponderosa pine forest and walk along winding paths to observe over 30 wild animal species. This experience allows for close-up views of North American animals such as bears, wolves, and bison, making it a family-friendly highlight. Lunch is available at the park, though the cost is not included.

Visiting Meteor Crater: A Cosmic Impact Site

Next, the tour journeys to the Meteor Crater, situated on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. This impressive natural feature was created over 50,000 years ago when a 150-foot-wide meteorite struck the earth with force 150 times greater than an atomic bomb. The visitor center provides detailed exhibits about the impact and its history, offering an engaging stop for geology buffs and curious visitors alike.

This attraction’s proximity to the Grand Canyon makes it a logical part of the itinerary, adding a layer of geological wonder to the overall experience. Entrance fees for the Meteor Crater are not included but are available for purchase separately.

Riding the Historic Grand Canyon Railway to the South Rim

Day two begins with an early hotel pickup from Las Vegas, followed by a visit to Williams, where the Grand Canyon Railway Station is located. The heritage train ride to the Grand Canyon South Rim lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering travelers a chance to relax and enjoy scenic views while experiencing a piece of history.

The train journey incorporates entertainment, including musicians and lively activities such as the chicken dance, providing a fun atmosphere. During the ride, cowboys “accidentally” pop out to playfully “rob” the train, adding a touch of theatrical charm. The approach to the canyon is steeped in nostalgia, echoing how travelers originally visited this natural wonder.

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Exploring the Grand Canyon with Free Time

Upon arriving at Grand Canyon Village, visitors are granted 3.5 hours for self-guided exploration. This free time allows for panoramic viewpoints and photo opportunities along the rim, as well as visits to key landmarks like Mather Point or Yavapai Observation Station. The canyon’s layers of hard rock and the Colorado River carving through the landscape create a breathtaking scene that remains a must-see for any traveler.

This time is ample for a leisurely walk, taking in the vastness of the canyon, and appreciating its geological significance. Visitors should note that the distance from the rim to the bottom is about a mile deep, and the canyon stretches 270 miles across northern Arizona.

Returning on the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel Drop-Off

At 3:30 pm, the group departs with a return train ride back along the Grand Canyon Railway. The 2.5-hour journey offers a relaxed pace to reflect on the day’s sights and enjoy the scenic train ride once again. Upon arrival at Williams, the tour concludes with hotel drop-off in Las Vegas.

The entire experience emphasizes comfort and convenience, with air-conditioned transportation and a small group size limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized setting.

Hotel Accommodation and Included Amenities

The tour provides one-night hotel stay with breakfast included, offering a restful base for both days of sightseeing. The hotels are located within the Las Vegas Strip area, making it easy to access for pickup and drop-off. The package includes the national park permit, allowing smooth access to the Grand Canyon and meteor site.

Guides are available in both English and Chinese, adding an extra layer of accessibility for international travelers. Pickup from designated hotels is complimentary, and guests are advised to leave their phone number and specify pickup preferences during booking.

Optional Attraction Passes and Additional Expenses

While the tour covers the core experiences, some attractions require additional passes. The Bearizona Wildlife Park pass costs $35, the Meteor Crater pass is $29, and the Grand Canyon Railway pass is $90. The Route 66 Museum entry fee is $4 for adults. These costs are not included but can be purchased onsite.

Travelers should also budget for meals, as these are not included in the package. Bringing comfortable shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended to fully enjoy the outdoor activities.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Travelers

This tour is wheelchair accessible but is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to some walking and uneven terrain at stops. Luggage or large bags are not allowed onboard, so pack essentials in a standard carry-on and a personal item.

Guests are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle, sun protection, and thermal clothing if visiting during colder months. Motion sickness prevention may be helpful on the train ride, especially for sensitive travelers.

Why This Tour Offers a Well-Balanced Arizona Experience

This 2-day adventure combines historical insights, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a well-rounded choice for families, history buffs, and nature lovers. The train journey adds a nostalgic touch that appeals to many, and the self-guided exploration time at the Grand Canyon allows for personalized discovery.

While some attractions involve additional costs, the overall package offers good value considering the included hotel stay, transportation, and key sights. The small group size and professional guides enhance the experience, ensuring plenty of attention and tailored commentary.

This tour is particularly suitable for those who prefer organized itineraries with comfort and convenience. It provides a balanced mix of cultural, geological, and scenic highlights that capture the essence of Arizona’s remarkable landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Las Vegas to all stops is included, along with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

What is the duration of the train ride?
The Grand Canyon Railway journey lasts about 2.5 hours each way.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Guests can buy food at the wildlife park or bring their own snacks.

How much do attraction passes cost separately?
The Bearizona Wildlife Park pass costs $35, the Meteor Crater pass is $29, and the Grand Canyon Railway pass is $90.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children are welcome, with the Grand Canyon Railway pass priced at $51 for ages 2-15.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and terrain at some stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What language options are available for guides?
Guides are available in English and Chinese.

Do I need to bring a lot of luggage?
No, only a standard carry-on and personal item are allowed; large luggage is not permitted.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour operates in small groups limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

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