Got a hankering to take an old-fashioned train ride? The Grand Canyon train has plush seats and fine furnishings, plus you get to visit the Canyon. What a bonus!

There's something really satisfying about this train ride. Maybe it's the old fashioned charm of the period coaches, passenger cars that were built for the rich and famous of the era. Yep, in a world where only the well-off could travel to the wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon train was the ticket.

The Train was dedicated in the late 1800's, but officially began service to the Canyon as the "Grand Canyon Railway" in 1901. Back then, taking the Grand Canyon train was an expensive proposition. Since the cars were decorated for the well-to-do, the feeling of luxury is still there. Vintage steam engines and restored period coaches complete the package.

The Grand Canyon train leaves Williams, Arizona at about 10 o'clock a.m. I recommend staying nearby the night before for a leisurely morning. You can find a hotel right in Williams, stay at the Quality Inn Mountain Ranch Resort (very nice!) just outside of town, or Flagstaff is only about 30 miles away. Once your train departs, you'll see a variety of landscapes before you arrive at the Canyon for the ultimate scenery.

As the you chug toward the rim, there is on-board entertainment and drinks (great for the kids!). It takes about 2 1/4 hours to travel the 65 miles from Williams. After you arrive at the Grand Canyon Depot, you'll have a few hours to hike on the rim trail, visit the historic buildings and take in incredible views. A free shuttle will take you to different points around the park. After some intense sightseeing, the train will have been turned around and waiting to take you back to Williams.

Visit the official Grand Canyon train website for more information.

They offer package deals, senior discounts, and run all year to the south rim. Kids 16 and under are free. Grand Canyon National Park entry fee not included ($8 per person or $20 per group as of this writing).

Looking for more excitement? Check out helicopter tours, river rafting or jeep tours. Papillon has a wide selection. They've already chosen the best company for each type of tour so there's no guesswork on your part.