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CELEBRATING 62 YEARS OF PRESERVING RAILROAD HISTORY: A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE AND DEDICATION AT TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM

August 11, 2023

Today, August 11, marks 62 years since we were chartered in 1961 to preserve the golden age of the American Railroad! Over the years we’ve seen changes in the “outside world” that make us seem even more dated than we were in 1961, we’ve endured many trying times that threatened to end our existence, we’ve mourned the loss of valuable employees and volunteers, and through it all, we’ve soldiered on in our mission to preserve the importance of railroads for all to enjoy!

Most Popular

From $26 per person

All Ages
1–1.5 Hours
Educational, Relaxed

Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride

January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2026 EST

Enjoy a 65-minute narrated train ride through Chattanooga featuring historic bridges, a pre-Civil War tunnel, a live turntable demonstration, and a guided visit to our active restoration shop — an engaging, family-friendly introduction to railroading at TVRM.

Delano Trip

From $62 per person

All Ages
4-6 Hours

Hiwassee Loop Train Ride Through Tennessee’s Hiwassee River Gorge

March 29, 2026 - November 22, 2026 EST

Embark on a 4.5-hour journey through the lower Hiwassee River gorge, featuring the remarkable Hiwassee Loop. This 50-mile round trip starts at 1:30 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m., showcasing the natural beauty and railway marvels of Tennessee.

Delano Trip

From $80 per person

All Ages
Full-Day Experience

Copperhill Special

April 1, 2026 - December 11, 2026 EST

Enjoy a full-day scenic train journey through the Hiwassee River Gorge on the Copperhill Special. Travel historic rails, take in mountain and river views, and enjoy a 90-minute layover in Copperhill and McCaysville to explore shops, dining, and the state line before returning.

From $45 per person

All Ages
Tea Service (75 Minutes)

The Homefront Tea Room

January 1, 2026 - October 31, 2026 EST

Step into timeless elegance at the Homefront Tea Room — a “Tea in the Depot” experience combining classic afternoon tea with a nostalgic train ride. Savor delightful treats and Southern charm before enjoying a 65-minute journey aboard the Missionary Ridge Local from Grand Junction Depot.

Evening Ride

From $25 per person

All Ages
1–1.5 Hours

Evening Ridge Runner

March 1, 2025 - September 6, 2025 EST

Join us on the Evening Ridge Runner journey. As Chattanooga’s skyline turns golden, experience this unique voyage inside our authentic mid-century passenger cars.