Williams
Grand Canyon Railway since 1901
Williams was the last town on Route 66 to be bypassed by I-40, on October 13, 1984. Today it thrives as the gateway to the Grand Canyon's South Rim (60 miles north) and home to the Grand Canyon Railway, which has carried passengers to the canyon since 1901.
The neon-lit main street is pure Route 66 — classic motels, souvenir shops, and diners line the original alignment. Cruiser's Cafe 66, housed in a converted vintage gas station, serves burgers and shakes on a patio perfect for summer evenings.
exploreThings to See & Do
Grand Canyon Railway
CAN'T MISSSteam and diesel trains have carried passengers from Williams to the Grand Canyon South Rim since 1901. The railway was revived in 1989 after decades of dormancy and offers a scenic, car-free way to reach the canyon.
Historic Route 66 Main Street
Williams' neon-lit main street is the last stretch of Route 66 to be bypassed by the interstate. Classic motels, souvenir shops, and diners line the original alignment.
restaurantWhere to Eat
Cruiser's Cafe 66
American$$RT66 CLASSICBurgers, shakes, and classic American comfort food served in a converted vintage gas station on Williams' Route 66 strip. The outdoor patio is perfect for summer evenings.
Tips for Visiting Williams
The Grand Canyon Railway departs at 9:30 AM and returns at 5:45 PM — plan your whole day around it.
Williams is at 6,700 feet elevation — cooler than the desert sections even in summer.
Book Grand Canyon Railway tickets well in advance for summer and holiday weekends.