Grand Canyon

 

Dear Blog

 

Day Three Grand Canyon Trip

 

The train station sits right across the street from our hotel, the Grand Canyon Hotel, so we packed our daypacks and simply strolled over with our tickets in hand. After checking in, we were encouraged to watch the “gunfight at the OK Corral.” It was a little hokey, but honestly kind of fun — and once the “bad guy” dramatically hit the dirt, it was time to board.

 

Our train pulled out at 9:30 a.m. for the hour‑and‑45‑minute ride to the South Rim. We splurged on the pricer tickets after doing some research; people kept saying the upgrade was worth it for the parlor car’s big windows, comfortable seating, its own bar, and access to the private outdoor platform. Reviewers also mentioned that because it’s adults‑only, the atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed — and I believe it. Watching the crowds of families lining up for the Pullman and Coach cars made me grateful for our choice.

 

Once we reached the South Rim, we had about three and a half hours to explore. We decided to wander along the Rim Trail toward Mather Point, which offers those big WOW, postcard‑perfect panoramic views. The trail is mostly paved, mostly flat, and hugs the canyon’s edge for miles. There’s a shuttle that continues past Mather Point to additional viewpoints, but we wanted to stretch our legs, breathe the air, and take in the scenery at our own pace. With the temperature hovering around 85 degrees, we weren’t looking for anything strenuous, just an easy, relaxing stroll. Yes, there were plenty of tourists snapping pictures—honestly, too many pictures in my opinion. Photos are great, but it’s also nice to put the phone down and simply take in the view.

 

On the walk back, we stopped at El Tovar, the rim‑side historic lodge with big windows, classic Southwestern charm, and its famously excellent Bloody Mary’s. The drink is iconic because it brings together everything that makes El Tovar special: a well‑made, no‑nonsense Bloody Mary, a legendary national‑park lodge, and a world‑class canyon view just steps away. It’s not just a cocktail — it’s part of the Grand Canyon experience. Travelers have been coming to El Tovar for more than a century, and ordering a Bloody Mary has become a tradition, the same way a mint julep belongs at Churchill Downs or a Mai tai belongs at the Royal Hawaiian. People recommend it because it feels like something you’re simply meant to do at the canyon. They didn’t exactly have to twist our arms.

 

 

 

The afternoon flew by, and before we knew it, it was time to board the train for our ride back to Williams. We already knew a “train robbery” was coming—we’d seen plenty of YouTube videos ahead of time—so we were ready for the show. It doesn’t matter what class you’re in; those “robbers” make their rounds and ask for money. It’s all part of the performance, of course, and people happily handed over a few dollars. It’s pretty clear that’s how the actors earn their tips, and honestly, they deserve it for putting on such an entertaining show.

 

Once we were back in Williams, it was time to grab a taco. We headed straight to El Corral, a long‑standing Mexican restaurant right on historic Route 66. It’s well known among both tourists and locals for its tacos, enchiladas, and big combo plates. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and it’s easily one of the most consistently recommended spots in town. We both decided to try the tamarind margarita. Tamarind is a sweet‑tart fruit, and the drink usually comes with a rim dipped in chile‑lime seasoning like Tajín for a little kick. It still has the classic margarita base—tequila, lime, and orange liqueur—but the tamarind adds a sweet‑tart, slightly earthy flavor that’s surprisingly refreshing. It turned out to be a great choice.

 

So, How was the Grand Canyon? “GRAND!”

 

How was the train? “Whew, Whew!”

 

How were the Tacos? “Olay, Olay!”