Quick Details
Santa's Private Car
Ages 1+ • Priced per person
$ 65
Traditional
Ages 1+ • Priced per person
$ 42
Infant
Must be under 1 years old. Must sit in a lap. Does not include hot chocolate, cookie, or bell.
Free
Visit the North Pole!
As our most popular annual event, North Pole Limited train rides have been a family tradition since 1999 at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. During the magical holiday season, trains take riders on an imaginary journey to the North Pole. Along the way, you’ll be treated to refreshments and storytelling while you enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. As the North Pole Limited train gently rolls down the rails, a number of lighted displays can be seen outside. When you arrive at the North Pole, Santa will come on board for a special visit with all the passengers.
2025 North Pole Limited Sponsored By:
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Trip Overview
Climb aboard for a heartwarming holiday adventure to the North Pole!
Passengers will enjoy steaming hot chocolate, freshly baked cookies,
and enchanting storytelling as the train travels through festive light displays.
Upon arrival, Santa Claus will board the train and greet every guest, creating
unforgettable memories for children and adults alike.
What’s Included
- Hot chocolate
- Homemade chocolate chip cookie
- Keepsake boarding pass
- Family ornament (one per family)
- Jingle bell gift for each child
Santa’s Private Car Ticket Holders also receive:
- Souvenir cup for hot chocolate
- Complimentary copy of The North Pole Limited storybook (one per family)
- Exclusive boarding location with private waiting area
- Extended visit and photo opportunities with Santa
What’s Not Included
Personal items or additional refreshments not listed above.
Itinerary
- Depart from Grand Junction Depot
- Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and holiday storytelling
- View festive light displays along the route
- Arrive at the North Pole, where Santa Claus boards the train
- Return to Grand Junction Depot
Highlights
- Magical Journey: Travel through dazzling light displays on your way to the North Pole.
- Santa’s Visit: Santa personally greets passengers in every car.
- Onboard Treats: Sip hot chocolate and enjoy cookies baked fresh at TVRM.
- Storytelling & Sing-Alongs: Enjoy classic Christmas tales and cheerful carols.
- Keepsakes: Take home a family ornament and boarding pass as mementos.
Seating Options
Traditional Seating
- Hot chocolate and a freshly baked cookie
- Visit from Santa at the “North Pole”
- Storytelling and occasional sing-alongs
- Keepsake ornament per family
- A special gift for each child from Santa
Santa’s Private Car
- Hot chocolate and a freshly baked cookie
- Visit from Santa at the “North Pole”
- Storytelling and sing-alongs
- Keepsake ornament per family
- Plus: Exclusive boarding area, extended time with Santa, and a complimentary copy of The North Pole Limited book (one per family)
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Know Before You Go
Check-In Information
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
The train departs promptly, and late arrivals may not be accommodated once boarding has closed.What to Bring
- Warm, comfortable clothing suitable for winter weather
- A camera to capture your magical moments with Santa
Special Requirements
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Guests with limited mobility or pregnant passengers should note that movement between cars may be limited due to the vintage nature of our equipment.
Extras
- Santa’s Private Car ticket holders receive a souvenir hot chocolate cup and extended visit time with Santa.
- Additional holiday merchandise and souvenirs are available for purchase at the Grand Junction Depot gift shop.
Important Notes
Train schedules, car types, or other operational details may change without prior notice due to weather or mechanical conditions.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum strives to ensure each guest enjoys a magical and memorable experience.Included With Your Ticket
Traditional Ticket Holders Receive:
- Homemade chocolate chip cookie
- Hot chocolate
- Keepsake boarding pass
- Family ornament
- Jingle bell gift
Santa’s Private Car Ticket Holders Receive:
- Extended visit with Santa
- Homemade chocolate chip cookie
- Hot chocolate served in a souvenir cup
- Keepsake boarding pass
- Family ornament
- Jingle bell gift
- Complimentary copy of The North Pole Limited storybook (one per family)
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Trains depart promptly at the time shown on your ticket, and late arrivals cannot be accommodated once the train has left the station.Where do I board the train?
All North Pole Limited departures leave from Grand Junction Station, located at
4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN. Get Directions.Is the train accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Due to the historic nature of our railcars, wheelchair access is limited.
Guests who can board with assistance and occupy a standard seat are welcome.
Please contact us in advance at [email protected] for specific accommodations.Does the train run if it’s raining or snowing?
Yes! The North Pole Limited operates rain or shine.
All coaches are fully enclosed, heated, and ready to keep guests cozy during their journey.Can I bring food and beverages on the train?
Small snacks and drinks are permitted, but please note that alcoholic beverages are not allowed on TVRM property or trains.
Is the train air-conditioned or heated?
All passenger coaches are climate-controlled and heated during the winter for your comfort.
Can I bring my pet on the train?
Only service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities are permitted onboard or on TVRM property.
Can I reserve tickets in advance?
Yes! Advance online purchase is highly recommended for the North Pole Limited, as these trips often sell out early.
You can purchase tickets at tvrail.com.Where should I stay overnight?
Chattanooga offers a variety of hotels, cabins, and family-friendly accommodations.
Visit Visit Chattanooga for recommendations.Can I smoke on the train?
Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited on all trains, platforms, and stations in accordance with state law.
Is there room for oversized vehicles in the parking lot?
Yes, parking at Grand Junction Station can typically accommodate oversized vehicles, except during large events such as Day Out With Thomas.
If we are running late, will the train wait for us?
Unfortunately, trains cannot be delayed once boarding is complete.
Please plan to arrive early to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding experience.Who owns and operates the North Pole Limited?
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) operates the North Pole Limited.
TVRM is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving railroad history and providing educational experiences.What is the mission of TVRM?
TVRM’s mission is to preserve, operate, and interpret historic railroad equipment to educate the public on the importance of railroading in our region.
Can I bring a firearm with a concealed carry permit?
No. Firearms are not permitted on TVRM property as authorized by Tennessee Code Annotated Section 39-17-1359.
Can I make a donation to TVRM?
Yes! Donations are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated.
Contributions support restoration and educational programs, and donors are recognized in our publication Smoke & Cinders.What other attractions are nearby?
Chattanooga offers many family attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, and Ruby Falls.
Visit Visit Chattanooga to explore more.Are online ticket purchases secure?
Yes. TVRM’s ticketing platform uses secure, encrypted connections.
Personal information is never shared or sold.I still have questions. How do I contact you?
For additional questions or assistance, please email
[email protected] or call us at
(423) 894-8028. -
The North Pole Limited may be our most magical tradition, but TVRM offers other memorable train rides and experiences all year long. Discover more holiday fun and railroad trips below:
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About Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum:
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a railway museum located in Chattanooga and Delano, Tennessee. It was established in 1961 to preserve and operate historic railway equipment for the education and enjoyment of future generations. The museum features a variety of vintage trains and railcars, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars. Visitors can experience the history of rail travel through excursions, exhibits, and hands-on activities. The museum operates on a historic rail line, offering scenic rides through the Hiwassee Loop and providing a unique perspective on the region’s history and culture. With its rich heritage, educational programs, and engaging events, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
As a non-profit organization, it takes a lot of resources to restore and maintain our vintage trains and equipment. In fact, it can cost up to $1.5 million to completely rebuild a steam engine, which must be done every 15 years or sooner. Your support helps us to continue to share this important piece of history with the community. So not only are you enjoying a unique and memorable experience, you are also contributing to the preservation of railroad history.