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Grand Canyon Railway & Treasures of Route 66

Grand Canyon Railway & Treasures of Route 66

Ride the rails to the Grand Canyon and cruise historic Route 66 on a nostalgic Southwest adventure filled with iconic sights, rich history, and unforgettable landscapes

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Ride the rails from Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon and discover hidden treasures of historic Route 66

 

Experience a world of wonder on this unforgettable five-day journey through the heart of the American Southwest—where legend, landscape, and living history converge in a sweeping story written in stone, sky, and time itself. From the first glimpse of the Grand Canyon to the charm of historic Route 66 during it's 100th year celebration, each experience is thoughtfully woven together to inspire a sense of awe, curiosity, and connection to the landscapes and stories that define the West.

 

Your journey begins with a refreshing evening along the Colorado River in Laughlin, Nevada, where you’ll settle in and enjoy a scenic dinner cruise. As the sun sets and the river reflects the soft desert light, it’s a peaceful and welcoming introduction to the adventure ahead.

 

At the heart of the tour stands the Grand Canyon, a place so vast and extraordinary it truly must be seen to be believed. Your approach aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railway adds to the experience, offering a nostalgic ride along tracks that have carried travelers to the canyon’s rim for over a century. Along the South Rim, a guided exploration by motor coach reveals its most iconic viewpoints, where endless layers of color stretch across the horizon and the story of this natural wonder comes vividly to life.

Another remarkable highlight awaits at the Grand Canyon Caverns, where an elevator carries you into one of the largest dry cavern systems in the United States. This rare and well-preserved environment offers a fascinating look at an ancient underground world, accessible in a comfortable and unique way.

 

The spirit of Route 66 is felt throughout the journey, as you travel along portions of this legendary highway and experience several of its most memorable highlights throughout the trip. In Kingman, the Route 66 Museum offers a deeper look into the road’s enduring legacy, while an authentic 50s diner experience captures the nostalgia and flavor of classic American travel.

 

Historic and cultural moments continue at the General Patton Museum, where the desert’s World War II history is brought into focus, and in the Old West town of Oatman, where wooden boardwalks and free-roaming wild burros create a scene from another time. In Lake Havasu City, the iconic London Bridge stands as a fascinating landmark, carefully relocated from England and rebuilt stone by stone in the Arizona desert.

 

With accommodations in Laughlin, Williams, and Lake Havasu, along with nine included meals, this thoughtfully designed journey blends natural beauty, rich history, and the timeless allure of Route 66’s 100-year legacy into an experience that captures the true spirit of the American West.

 

Tour Fare:

  • $2195 per person double occupancy

  • $2525  per person single occupancy

 

Early Booking Savings:

  • Be one of the first 20 guests to book and save $100 per person off the above fare

  • Be one of guests 21-30 to book and save $75 per person off the above fare

 

Make your tour completely refundable

 

Deposit and Final Payment:

A deposit of $150 per person is due at time of booking. Balance is due by August 12.

 

 

Laughlin, NV

 

Welcome Dinner Cruise on the Colorado River

 

Unexpected wildlife encounters

 

Tour the Grand Canyon Caverns

 

Iconic Route 66 stop in Seligman

 

Ride the rails from Williams, AZ to the the Grand Canyon's South Rim

 

 

Wild donkey "window shopping" in Route 66's historic Oatman, AZ

 

Wild donkeys roam the streets of historic Oatman, AZ

 

Famous London Bridge, Lake Havasu

 

Patton Museum

5-DAY VACATION

Note: Tour routing and times subject to change without notice

DAY 1

The journey begins as we make our way inland, with a brief stop at the popular Temecula Farmers Market, where you'll have time to stretch your legs and browse a variety of local goods. From here, the scenery gradually opens into the wide desert landscapes of the Southwest as we continue toward the Colorado River. By late afternoon, we arrive in Laughlin, NV and check in at the Aquarius Hotel & Casino, ideally situated along the river's edge. With a little time to settle in, the day transitions seamlessly into evening. Tonight, we step aboard the 96-foot Grand Celebration for a relaxing sunset dinner cruise along the Colorado River. As the desert sky begins to glow and the lights of Laughlin reflect on the water, enjoy a leisurely meal and the calm, scenic beauty that sets the tone for the days ahead.

D

DAY 2

The day unfolds as we continue eastward, tracing stretches of Arizona's storied Route 66, where echoes of the "Mother Road" remain ever present. Along the way, vintage signage, roadside relics, and small-town character offer a glimpse into a bygone era of American travel. Our journey brings us to Peach Springs, the heart of the Hualapai Nation, where we pause for an included lunch before descending into the remarkable Grand Canyon Caverns. Traveling by elevator deep below the surface, we step into one of the largest dry caverns in the United States-a vast subterranean world carved over millions of years. Unlike many caves, these chambers are dry and expansive, revealing ancient geological formations and preserving a fascinating window into the region's distant past. Returning to the open road, we continue to Seligman, a town that proudly keeps the spirit of Route 66 alive. Here we visit the iconic Snow Cap Drive-In, founded by Route 66 legend Angel Delgadillo, whose efforts helped preserve the legacy of this historic highway. With time to stroll the nostalgic three-block stretch, you'll find classic storefronts, vintage cars, and playful roadside charm that recall the days before the interstate redirected the flow of travelers. By evening, we arrive in the charming town of Williams, AZ and check in at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. Dinner is included at the Fred Harvey Restaurant, where the day comes to a close in comfort, surrounded by the enduring spirit of the American Southwest.

L, D

DAY 3

The morning begins with breakfast at the hotel followed by a touch of Old West excitement as we take in a lively shootout reenactment, setting the stage for the day ahead. Soon after, we board the historic Grand Canyon Railway, settling into vintage rail cars for a classic journey north to the South Rim. As the train rolls through high desert and pine forest landscapes, the experience recalls an earlier era of travel to one of the country's most remarkable destinations. Upon arrival at the Grand Canyon, we step aboard a comfortable motorcoach for a narrated Freedom Tour along the South Rim. With stops at several of the canyon's most iconic viewpoints, there is ample opportunity to take in the vast scale and layered beauty of this natural wonder. Lunch is included at the Steakhouse, followed by free time to explore at your own pace-whether capturing photos, browsing gift shops, or simply taking in the views a little longer. Later, we return to the depot and board a first-class rail car for a more relaxed and comfortable journey back. Keep an eye out along the way, as the return trip may include a fun and unexpected bit of Wild West entertainment before we arrive back at our hotel for the evening. Enjoy a stroll and dinner at your leisure in the historic Route 66 town of Williams.

B, L

DAY 4

Today captures the enduring spirit of America's most legendary highway as you travel along portions of historic Route 66. In Kingman, step into the Route 66 Museum, where engaging exhibits trace the evolution of this iconic road-from early wagon routes to the "Main Street of America," carrying generations westward in search of opportunity and adventure. Lunch is a true Route 66 experience at the iconic Mr. D'z Diner, where the spirit of mid-century roadside America comes to life through bright retro décor, old-school signage, and that unmistakable "pull off the highway and grab a bite" atmosphere. Enjoy a casual meal with classic favorites as you soak in the nostalgia that made this highway an enduring symbol of American travel. Continuing on Route 66, we arrive in the historic mining town of Oatman, AZ, where wooden boardwalks and free-roaming wild burros create an authentic Old West atmosphere. By day's end, you'll reach Lake Havasu City and check in to the waterfront London Bridge Resort, ideally situated beside the iconic London Bridge. This evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner overlooking the water and this remarkable landmark, with time to stroll the scenic pathways along the shoreline.

L, D

DAY 5

This morning, follow the Colorado River south as the landscape unfolds into the striking beauty of the Parker Strip, where the road gently winds alongside the water and descends near Parker Dam-one of the deepest dams in the world. Here, the river narrows between rugged canyon walls, offering a scenic and memorable stretch that showcases a different, more intimate side of the Southwest. Continuing on, arrive at the General George Patton Museum, a remarkable tribute to one of America's most influential military leaders. Located on the very desert training grounds where General Patton prepared troops for World War II, the museum brings history vividly to life through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories. A docent-guided tour adds depth and perspective, offering insight into the strategies, leadership, and sheer scale of the Desert Training Center that once spanned this region. From here, enjoy a relaxed lunch stop in La Quinta at Applebee's before continuing your journey home. Along the way, a visit to the ever-popular Hadley's Orchard offers the perfect opportunity to browse a tempting selection of fresh nuts, dates, and local treats-ideal for sharing or savoring later. As the journey comes to a close, you'll return home with fond memories of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the timeless spirit of the American West.

B, L

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Tour Manager:

  • Patti Foley*

 

*Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.

 

Activity Level: High

  • This tour involves walking on uneven, unpaved, and inclined surfaces at at various locations. Throughout the sightseeing portions of this tour there are many instances of embarking and disembarking the coach stairs and walking from the coach to the viewpoints, though walking is mostly at your own pace. The booking client is responsible for sharing this information with all companions traveling in their party prior to placing a booking.

 

Highest Elevation

  • This tour involves sustained elevations of 6,700 to 7,000 feet

 

What's Included in the Tour Fare

  • Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation

  • Professional motor coach driver

  • Professional Tour Manager throughout the tour

  • Bottled water and snacks on the coach

  • Dinner cruise on the Colorado River

  • Full day Grand Canyon experience, including:

               - Round-trip Grand Canyon Railway excursion from Williams to the South Rim

               - Motor coach tour along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon

               - Lunch at Maswic Lodge

  • General Patton Memorial Museum

  • 4 nights accommodations:

           - Night 1: Aquarius Casino Hotel, Laughlin, NV           

           - Night 2 & 3: Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, Williams, AZ

           - Night 4: London Bridge Resort, Lake Havasu City, AZ

  • 9 meals: 2 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners

  • Route 66 Highlights Include:

           - Visit the iconic Hackberry General Store

           - Guided tour inside the mysterious Grand Canyon Caverns

           - Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In, one of the most iconic and quirky Route 66 roadside stops

           - Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman, AZ

           - Historic Oatman, AZ, with its wild burros roaming the streets

 

What's Not Included in the Tour Fare

  • Meals not listed as included on the itinerary

  • Cancellation Protection Plan or Travel Insurance

  • Room incidentals and personal items

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver

 

How to Book Your Reservation

  • Making your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also call the DayTripper Tours reservations department at (619) 334-3394 during business hours of M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Deposit and final Payment

  • A deposit of $150 per person is required to secure your booking, with the final balance due 45 days prior to departure.

 

Smartphones

  • Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone and personal ear buds can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, post your real-time experience to your Facebook friends, and much more.

 

45-Day Cancellation Deadline

  • If you purchased the Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) before the cancellation deadline, your tour is fully refundable up until two hours prior to the tour departure time (see below). If you did not purchase the CPP you may cancel your booking forty-five (45) or more days prior to the departure date to receive a refund less a $100 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking forty-five (45) or more days prior to the departure date, we can waive the cancellation fee and transfer the full amount to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Cancellations within 45 days of departure are nonrefundable and nontransferable for any reason if you did not purchase the CPP.

  • Passenger name changes, deviations, or other changes made by the passenger after the final payment deadline has passed will be assessed a $50 per person change fee plus any fees incurred by the service providers. No refunds, transfers or credits can be issued for any reason on bookings canceled after the cancellation deadline.

 

Optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) - Cancel for any reason and receive a full refund.

  • DayTripper Tours offers an optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) for this tour. The CPP allows you to cancel your reservation for any reason at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time for a full refund (less the cost of the CPP). The CPP may be purchased prior to the tour’s stated cancellation deadline. To cancel your reservation, please call (619) 334-3394 during business hours to notify a reservations agent, or leave a time-stamped voice message after hours at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, and your refund will be processed. CPP does not cover the single supplement of the remaining traveler when a traveling companion cancels from a double occupancy reservation. The CPP is not insurance, but rather an agreed-upon cancellation fee paid in advance for the right to cancel a reservation according to the terms stated in this clause. Protect yourself even further with Travel Insurance (see below). CPP is not offered on tours that include air, rail, or cruise line transportation.

 

Protect Your Investment with Travel Insurance

  • At DayTripper Tours, we recommend you purchase insurance to help protect against unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss, or even sudden sickness or injury, all of which could impact your excursion. In today’s ever-changing travel environment, you can relax and enjoy your trip with the security of knowing those unexpected circumstances are covered by a travel protection plan. You can purchase travel insurance from any company you choose; however, for your convenience, we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services (CA Agency License #0D10209). For more information and to receive a quote, click here. Please note: Your policy must be purchased on or before the date you submit your final payment for the tour in order to be eligible for the pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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Name Address Times
Escondido Escondido Transit Center
700 W. Valley Parkway 92025. Wait near Dock #4
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La Mesa Park & Ride #22 lot - 8703 Murray Dr, 91942
Narrow Park & Ride Across from Wells Fargo Bank
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Mission Valley 2005 Camino Del Este
San Diego, CA 92108; Street parking only
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University City 6245 Kantor Street, San Diego, CA 92122
Street parking only. Do not enter parking lot.
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From Price Book Now Call Back Telephone Favorites
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