Starlight Ride on Verde Canyon Railroad

Planning an evening adventure in Sedona? The Starlight Ride on Verde Canyon Railroad offers a chance to enjoy Arizona’s high desert landscape under a blanket of stars. This experience promises a scenic journey with plush seating, a champagne toast, and a dose of local history. It’s ideal for those looking for a relaxed, visually stunning outing that combines comfort with a touch of romance.

What we love about this tour is how it balances leisure and scenery. The first-class cabins with panoramic windows give you a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful vistas in the area, and the champagne toast adds a celebratory vibe. Plus, the onboard commentary, which includes insights into the landscape and the region’s past, makes the ride feel engaging rather than just a sightseeing cruise.

A potential consideration? The duration of around four hours might feel a bit lengthy if you’re pressed for time or not a big fan of long rides. Also, while the experience includes plenty of snacks and a lovely meal voucher, alcohol is available for purchase, so if you’re expecting an open bar, that might not be the case.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic, laid-back outings with a touch of comfort and class. It’s particularly good if you want a unique way to unwind while soaking in Arizona’s rugged beauty — especially if you’re a fan of star gazing or a romantic evening with a loved one.

Key Points

• Comfortable, first-class seating with panoramic windows lets you enjoy the views in style.
• Evening champagne toast adds a special touch to the experience.
• Onboard commentary and historical insights make the ride educational and engaging.
• Scenic stops like SOB Canyon and Tuzigoot National Monument enrich the journey.
• Good value for the price considering the scenery, amenities, and included snacks.
• Limited inclusion of alcoholic drinks—available for purchase, so plan accordingly.

The Verde Canyon Railroad isn’t just a train ride; it’s a scenic, relaxing journey through some of Arizona’s most captivating landscapes. Starting in Clarkdale, which is a quick drive from Sedona, this adventure takes you along the same tracks laid down back in 1911 following the Verde River. It’s a route that’s both historically significant and visually stunning, especially when viewed at night under the stars.

Starting Point and Check-In

You’ll meet at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot in Clarkdale. The station itself is charming, with a museum dedicated to the railroad’s past, which is a nice touch for those interested in local history. The museum is free to visit before the ride, and it offers a glimpse into Clarkdale, Jerome, and the Yavapai-Apache Nation. Arriving early is advised; most travelers arrive with some time to explore or browse the gift shop.

The Journey and Scenic Highlights

Once aboard, the experience feels seamless. You’ll be greeted by friendly staff and shown to your first-class cabin, which boasts panoramic windows designed for optimal viewing. The ride lasts approximately four hours, giving plenty of time to settle in, enjoy the scenery, and even relax with snacks and drinks.

One of the key highlights is the SOB Canyon and the massive 150-foot-high bridge. These are truly picture-perfect moments; looking down into the canyon or across the bridge from the train offers stunning perspectives. A standout feature is the train’s route past Tuzigoot National Monument, which you can admire from your seat.

Onboard Commentary and History

Throughout the ride, you’ll hear narration about the landscape, the old railroad, and regional history. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. One rider described their guide as a “wealth of knowledge,” which really enhances the experience. The onboard commentary adds context to the scenery, making it more than just a pretty view—it’s an educational journey.

Stops and Points of Interest

The turn-around point of the trip is Perkinsville Ghost Town, a fascinating historical site with remnants of an old mining town. The commentary provides insights into its past, turning this stop into an interesting story rather than just a photo opportunity.

The train also passes Tuzigoot, a site rich in archaeological relics from the Sinagua people. While the train doesn’t stop here, you’ll get a good view and learn about its significance during the ride.

Included in your ticket is a cafe voucher for a meal at the depot cafe, which you can carry onboard. This translates to a convenient, sit-down meal that’s more generous than expected, especially for a scenic train trip.

Once on the train, the experience is elevated by Southwest-inspired appetizers and snacks, along with bottled water. For those who enjoy a toast, a champagne glass is offered to celebrate the evening. If you’re looking to indulge further, a cash bar is available so you can purchase wine, beer, or cocktails. Several reviews mention appreciating the champagne toast and the variety of snacks, which make the journey feel festive.

The Night Sky and Stargazing

Perhaps the most magical part of this tour is the night sky. As the train winds back toward Clarkdale, the sky clear of city lights reveals stars in full glory. Several travelers raved about how seeing the stars during the return voyage made this experience truly special. It’s an ideal outing for anyone interested in a peaceful, starry night with minimal light pollution.

This train ride is best suited for those who enjoy scenic, leisurely outings. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a calm, beautiful way to spend an evening. The plush seating and onboard amenities cater to travelers looking for a bit of luxury and comfort.

While it’s not explicitly family-focused, older children or teens who appreciate nature and history might also find this trip enjoyable. Keep in mind that the ride might be a bit long for younger kids, especially during chilly nights, so bring warm layers if you’re sensitive to the cold.

At $186.18 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest outing in Sedona, but it’s packed with value. You get first-class seating, snacks, a meal voucher, champagne toast, and access to some of the most scenic and historic sites in the area. The reviews often mention how the quality of service and scenery justifies the ticket price.

Some travelers find it a bit on the longer side, but most agree that the comfort and scenery make it worthwhile. Considering the included amenities and the opportunity to enjoy Arizona’s night sky, it offers a memorable and premium experience.

• Arrive early to explore the museum and get comfortable.
• Dress warmly, especially if you’re riding in the evening; it can get chilly at night.
• Book in advance—the trip is popular, and most days are booked out.
• Plan for around four hours; if you’re pressed for time, this might feel lengthy.
• No pets are allowed onboard, so plan accordingly.
• Alcohol is available for purchase, but not included, so bring cash or card if you want drinks.
• Most travelers can participate, but service animals are allowed.

The Starlight Ride on Verde Canyon Railroad offers a beautifully relaxed way to take in Arizona’s stunning desert scenery, especially under a canopy of stars. With plush seating, engaging storytelling, and a celebratory champagne toast, it’s a memorable outing for those who enjoy scenic, comfortable travel with a touch of elegance. While the four-hour duration might feel long for some, the combination of breathtaking views, historical insights, and star-gazing makes it worth considering.

This experience shines brightest if you’re after a serene, leisurely adventure that blends nature, history, and a bit of luxury. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, travelers seeking a unique way to unwind, or anyone who appreciates good scenery paired with thoughtful service.

If you enjoy scenic train rides and want to add a starry night to your Sedona visit, this trip won’t disappoint. Just remember to dress warmly and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the canyon’s majestic beauty and the glittering night sky.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family adventure, older children and teens who enjoy scenery and history may find it engaging. Younger kids might get restless during the long ride or in chilly conditions.

How long is the trip?
The ride lasts approximately four hours, which includes scenic stops, commentary, and time to enjoy the views and star-gazing.

Are meals included?
Tickets purchased through Viator include a cafe voucher for a meal at the depot cafe, which can be taken onboard. Snacks, appetizers, and bottled water are provided on the train.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the cash bar. The trip also features a champagne toast, which is included in the ticket.

Is the train comfortable?
Absolutely. The first-class cabins are well-appointed with panoramic windows, ensuring a cozy and scenic ride.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers; it can get quite chilly at night, especially after sunset. Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended.

What is the best time to go?
Most reviews suggest the evening ride is ideal for star-gazing, which means it’s best to plan for a clear night and arrive early to enjoy the museum and prep time.

This journey is a fine choice for those looking to combine Arizona’s natural beauty with relaxed comfort and a bit of evening magic. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or simply seeking a peaceful night under the stars, it’s a solid pick.