Step aboard history at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum —an immersive, moving museum where passengers ride full-sized vintage trains through scenic landscapes and historic rail lines. Founded in 1961 to preserve America’s rich railroading legacy, the museum offers unforgettable experiences aboard authentic steam and diesel locomotives operating routes that date back to the 1850s.

Recommended For

History Buffs: Ride along restored Civil War-era railways and learn about Chattanooga’s rail legacy.

Families: Enjoy seasonal events like the North Pole Limited, Bunny Train, or Halloween Eerie Express.

Train Enthusiasts: Explore vintage coaches, steam engines, and take behind-the-scenes tours of the restoration shop.

Couples: Savor romantic dinner trains with gourmet meals and scenic views through Chattanooga’s countryside.

What to Expect

  • Interactive Train Rides: All experiences take place on moving trains, not in a traditional museum setting.
  • Two Boarding Locations: Most rides depart from Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga. Special excursions also depart from the L&N Depot in Etowah, TN.
  • Weather-Resistant Comfort: Trains run in all conditions except severe weather. Cars are heated and cooled for comfort.
  • Accessibility Notice: Due to the historic nature of the trains, not all rides are ADA accessible.

Featured Train Rides & Events

  • Missionary Ridge Local: Cross four bridges, pass through a tunnel, and tour the railroad restoration shop.
  • Hiwassee Loop: A 50-mile scenic ride through Cherokee National Forest and the Hiwassee River Gorge.
  • Copperhill Special: A 94-mile round trip to Georgia with a midday stop for lunch.
  • Chickamauga Turn: Half-day ride visiting Civil War historic sites with onboard meal options.
  • Summerville Steam Special: An all-day excursion to Georgia, featuring military parks and historic towns.
  • Rail Baron’s Bash: Annual gala with jazz music, hors d’oeuvres, and special behind-the-scenes tours.

Seasonal & Holiday Events

  • North Pole Limited: A magical Christmas train ride featuring holiday lights, music, and seasonal cheer.
  • Santa’s Hiwassee Holiday Train: Meet Santa aboard the Hiwassee Loop with refreshments and carols.
  • Summerville Santa Special: Santa-themed one-hour ride with stories, treats, and holiday songs.
  • Christmas Special Dinner Train: A four-course Christmas meal in a 1924 dining car through Chattanooga.
  • Valentine & New Year’s Eve Dinner Trains: Celebrate with a romantic or festive ride and gourmet meals.
  • Halloween Eerie Express: Family-friendly Halloween fun with costumes, a funhouse, and spooky tunnels.
  • Hop Aboard the Bunny Train: Enjoy an Easter ride with egg hunts, storytelling, and family games.
  • Dinner on the Diner: Saturday evening rides with classic dining car meals, offered seasonally.

Stations

  • Grand Junction Station (Chattanooga): Main boarding location and home to many ride options and events.
  • L&N Depot (Etowah): Base for the Hiwassee River Rail Adventures, operated with mid-century diesel locomotives through the Cherokee National Forest.

Educational Opportunities

TVRM offers hands-on Railroad Summer Camps for kids ages 7–17, focused on locomotive preservation, operations, and engineering. While most programs are geared toward teens, all ages can engage in immersive learning experiences. Camp details, dress codes, and registration info are available online.

Visitor Information

  • Tickets & Schedules: Vary by ride and season. Check tvrail.com for current availability and pricing.
  • Parking & Amenities: Available at both boarding stations; restrooms and gift shops on-site.

Grand Junction Station: 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, Tennessee | Phone: 423-894-8028

Website | Map

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