Easter Bunny Express
2026
Saturday, April 4, 2026
Easter Bunny Express
Overview
Our precocious bunny makes a pre-Easter visit to Verde Canyon Railroad on Saturday, April 4, 2026, for plenty of hare-raising fun on the pavilion. Expect to get a great big hug from our oversized white rabbit whose lovable squeeze guarantees a picture-perfect moment. Once onboard the Easter Bunny Express, the rails take passengers through the scenic Verde Canyon where springtime flaunts its postcard-worthy display in flamboyant color.
Start at the Depot with Lunch and Jelly-Bean-Counting Contest
This popular event, a precursor to Easter Sunday, starts at the depot with a scratch-made lunch at the Copper Spike Café before the whistle blows. The pavilion bar is the perfect place to purchase Arizona craft beers, wine and spirits-free beverages prior to boarding. Fun frolicking with the wacky wabbit on the pavilion and a jelly-bean-counting contest, paired with a burger, pulled pork sandwich or luscious chef salad, is the perfect place to kick off this holiday adventure. The relaxed atmosphere sets the stage for the scenic journey ahead, creating a memorable start to your rail journey.
Explore the Boxcar Gift Store and John Bell Museum
Before you board for an unforgettable time on the Easter Bunny Express, don’t miss the chance to pick up a keepsake or Easter basket surprise at the Boxcar Gift Store. From designer apparel and home goods to exclusive local art, books and handcrafted jewelry, you’ll find the perfect memento that will capture the magic of your day.
The John Bell Museum, located in a historic box car, is chock full of the history of the railroad in Clarkdale, as well as neighboring communities that were built to support the copper mines that fueled the Industrial Revolution. With fascinating artifacts and local lore, the museum is a great starting point. A walk along the boarding platform will take you to an array of junior billboards that are rich with the people and wildlife that have imprinted the Verde Valley and the Canyon.
Enjoy a Scenic Train Ride
You’ll savor the thrill of the Canyon’s vibrant springtime scenery from comfortable indoor seating with unlimited access to adjoining open-air viewing cars. It’s an exhilarating escape where you can immerse yourself in the crisp, fresh air, sunshine and pleasant seasonal temperatures. The swath of emerald foliage dotted with a color palette of blooms is in stark contrast to the red-rock sculpturing that lines the river and the rails. The thrill of traveling through a 734-foot long tunnel evokes screams and hollers from every family member aboard the Easter Bunny Express.
Easter Bunny Express
Tickets & Event Details
Your Ticket Includes:
- Photo opportunity on the pavilion with the Easter Bunny prior to boarding
- Free entry into the jelly-bean-counting contest
- Comfortable living room-style seating inside a climate-controlled passenger car
- Unlimited access to adjoining open-air viewing car
- Charcuterie box of gourmet meats, cheeses, crackers, fruit, brownie bites
- Champagne or sparkling cider toast upon boarding
Price: $139.00 per person
Event Details:
- 9:30 a.m. Train Departure
- Café opens for breakfast at 8:00 a.m.
- Train boards at 9:15 a.m.
- Train returns by 1:30 p.m.
- Easter Bunny arrives on the property at 1:30 p.m. to wave in the returning train and greet guests on the pavilion.
- 3:30 p.m. Train Departure
- Café opens for lunch at 1:00 p.m.
- Easter Bunny arrives on the property at 1:30 p.m.
- Train boards at 3:15 p.m.
- Easter Bunny waves off the afternoon departure
- Train returns by 7:30 p.m.
- Train Ride Duration: 4 Hours
- Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026
Photo Gallery
Easter Bunny Express FAQs
What time should I arrive at the depot for the Easter Bunny Express?
We recommend arriving at the depot 1.5 hours prior to boarding to allow time to enjoy lunch at the Railroad’s Copper Spike Café, peruse the Boxcar Gift Store and get your photo snapped with the Easter Bunny prior to boarding. The gift store and museum are open when the train returns, but the café and pavilion bar are closed.
Are the rates the same for all family members?
Yes. We have a totally first-class train, where all seats are the same for everyone, with the exception of an infant under the age of one year who rides free in the lap of an adult.
Do I have to ride the train to meet the Easter Bunny on the pavilion?
No. All are welcome to come to the depot for lunch and beverages and pose with our Bunny.
Are non-alcoholic beverages and alcoholic beverages available at the event on the pavilion?
Yes. Non-alcoholic beverages, private-labeled wines, and locally-crafted beers are available for purchase at the depot and aboard the train. The train also has a full menu of premium libations.