Back to Tennessee Valley Railroad News

ALL ABOARD FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND IN CHATTANOOGA!

September 1, 2023

Missionary Ridge Local: A Timeless Journey through Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Awaits: Discover East Tennessee by Rail.
Experience History: Ride with 119-Year-Old Steam Engine #630.
Dive into Autumn: Chattanooga's Labor Day Train Adventures!
Unwind This Weekend: Scenic Train Rides and Autumn Views.
Evening Ridge Runner: Twilight Journeys Every Weekend in Chattanooga.

Celebrate the long weekend in style! In Chattanooga, the Missionary Ridge Local is prepped and ready to roll, showcasing the magnificent 119-year-old steam engine, #630.

Join us for the Evening Ridge Runner available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, departing precisely at 7:00 pm. Allow the rhythmic chugging of the train and the scenic beauty to wash away the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Venturing from our Delano station? Prepare for a treat. Both the Hiwassee Loop and the Copperhill Special are on the schedule. As you wind through the tracks, you’ll be privy to breathtaking views of East Tennessee as it slowly dons its autumnal colors.

Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to enjoy the holiday weekend, the Tennessee Valley Railroad has something for everyone. So why wait? Grab your tickets and hop onboard for an unforgettable journey.

Book Your Tickets Here

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.

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.

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.

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.

From $10 per person

All Ages
1–2 Hours

Exhibit Admission

Includes all-day access to the property and all on-site exhibits. This admission does not include a train ride.

Admission is already included with any Train Ticket. Please do not purchase this if you have a train ride booked.

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.