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The Grand Canyon is a stunning natural wonder as well as a huge tourist destination, full of commercial attractions all clamoring for you to spend your hard-earned dollars on their brand of family vacation fun.

Here's an overview of some of the most popular tours and activities, including information that can help you decide whether they will be fun and appropriate for you and your family.

Grand Canyon Railway
This railroad runs from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. In November and December, the railway offers a special Polar-Express-themed ride to the North Pole (Grand Canyon), complete with a visit from Santa. The rest of the year, the 2 hour and 15 minute train ride departs daily, and there are other themed rides throughout the year. Young children are allowed on the train (children over two need their own ticket), and there are many levels of service, ranging from "Budd" (bench seats, complimentary sodas) to "First" (large individual seats, fresh fruit, pastries, champagne and sodas) available to families with young children.

Colorado River Float Trips
Rides down smooth-water sections can be a great way to see the canyon. Most of the commercial trips use motorized 15- to 25-person rafts. Children as young as four years old can go on these trips, as long as they are patient enough to sit through a 4 1/2-hour raft ride. There are no bathroom facilities along most of the routes. Make sure to bring enough sunblock, water and other necessities.