Best Scenic Train Rides In Arizona Worth Checking Out

If you’re looking for a list of the best scenic train rides in Arizona, this is exactly where you’ll get it. While there aren’t many choices here with other states, Arizona still has some of the most diverse landscapes you can explore through various methods, but doing it through train rides is one of the top options and the following list compiles both short and long rides you can explore in some of it’s most popular destinations.

Here are the best scenic train rides in Arizona:

Verde Canyon Railroad
Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club
Daisy Mountain Railroad
Grand Canyon Railway
Desert Breeze Railroad
Old Pueblo Trolley

Verde Canyon Railroad:

The Verde Canyon Railroad offers one of the most picturesque train experiences in Arizona. Departing from Clarkdale, this 4-hour journey takes passengers on a 20-mile ride through the stunning Verde Canyon. Known for its towering red rock formations, lush riverside vegetation, and diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and other birds of prey, the trip provides an immersive experience into Arizona’s natural beauty. The train features vintage passenger coaches and open-air viewing cars that allow for unobstructed views of the canyon’s awe-inspiring landscapes. Special events and themed rides throughout the year add to the allure, making every journey on the Verde Canyon Railroad unique. This is the best scenic train ride in Sedona Arizona worth exploring.

Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club:

Located in Glendale, Arizona, the Maricopa Live Steamers Railroad Club is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of railroading. The club offers free rides on its miniature railroad, which features several 20-40 minute routes through desert landscapes and detailed scale model environments. This unique attraction provides an intimate look at the intricacies of railroad operations and engineering, appealing to train enthusiasts and families looking for an educational outing. The club operates seasonally, offering a special way for visitors to engage with railroad history and enjoy the outdoors.

Daisy Mountain Railroad:

The Daisy Mountain Railroad is located in Anthem, Arizona and provides a charming and scenic 10-minute ride perfect for families with young children. The journey takes passengers around a beautifully landscaped park, including a small lake and through a tunnel. It’s a delightful experience that captures the joy of train travel on a smaller scale, complete with vibrant green landscapes and sparkling waterfalls. The train itself adds to the whimsical atmosphere, making it a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors to the area.

Grand Canyon Railway:

The Grand Canyon Railway is a historic and scenic journey from Williams Arizona to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 65-mile trip offers a unique way to experience one of the world’s natural wonders, combining the old-world charm of train travel with breathtaking views of the Arizona landscape. The railway features several classes of service, from vintage coach cars to luxury parlor cars, catering to a wide range of preferences. Along the way, passengers enjoy entertainment from cowboy storytellers and musicians, enhancing the nostalgic experience. The journey culminates in an exploration of the Grand Canyon, making it a must-do for visitors seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Desert Breeze Railroad:

Located in Chandler, Arizona, the Desert Breeze Railroad is a family-friendly attraction within Desert Breeze Park. This 3/4-mile ride on an open-top train offers a leisurely way to enjoy the park’s scenic beauty, including lush green grass and a pristine lake. The train ride is especially popular among children, providing a fun and relaxing activity for families. Operating seasonally, the Desert Breeze Railroad is a delightful addition to a day out in the park, offering enjoyment for guests of all ages.

Old Pueblo Trolley:

The Old Pueblo Trolley is a historic streetcar system in Tucson, Arizona, that offers a nostalgic ride through the city’s bustling streets. This volunteer-operated service preserves Tucson’s transit history, allowing passengers to experience the charm of early 20th-century streetcar travel. The route takes riders past various points of interest, including the University of Arizona, providing a unique and educational perspective on Tucson’s development and heritage. The Old Pueblo Trolley operates on weekends and is a delightful way to explore the city while stepping back in time.

Other than these options there are also various train museums throughout the state you can check out as well, but I will say that out of the many states I have done these types of posts on, Arizona has some of the fewest rides in this regard, but it’s still worth exploring and out of this list, the top 2 choices are easily Grand Canyon Railway and Verde Canyon Railroad which will showcase 2 of the top destinations in the state which are Sedona and the Grand Canyon.

I also have (or am in the process) of adding detailed descriptions of the above railroad attractions if you’re looking to check them out coming up but in the meantime, I do also recommend a few other states which may provide you with more and possibly better options like in Colorado and Oregon. If you have any personal suggestions of other scenic train rides in Arizona that I may have missed, which are worth adding please let me know below and/or if you have tried any of the options above too!