STEAM, SMILES, AND STORYTIME: DAY OUT WITH THOMAS KICKS OFF AT TVRM!
All Aboard! Thomas is Ready to Party in Chattanooga
Chattanooga families, get ready! Thomas the Tank Engine is chugging into the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) this April for a celebration 80 years in the making. The beloved blue engine will be at TVRM for Day Out With Thomas: The Party Tour on April 5-6 & 12-13. It’s more than just a train ride — it’s a full-blown party packed with excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.
What Can You Expect at Day Out With Thomas?
This year’s event is bursting with energy and activities that will have kids and parents smiling from ear to ear:
- ✅ Ride with Thomas the Tank Engine — Take a real 25-minute train ride pulled by Thomas himself. 🚂
- ✅ Live Entertainment & Photo Ops — Snap selfies with Thomas and Sir Topham Hatt, and enjoy lively performances! 📸
- ✅ Games & Celebration Station — Enjoy hands-on activities, themed games, and creative stations. 🎯
- ✅ Exclusive Gift Shop & Lawn Games — Take home a Thomas souvenir and enjoy outdoor fun. 🛍️
- ✅ Family Fun & Memories — A perfect day out for families and young rail fans alike. ❤️
🎟️ Tickets are selling fast! Reserve yours now
Why Is This Year So Special?
This year marks Thomas the Tank Engine’s 80th birthday. First introduced in 1945 in “The Railway Series” by Reverend W. Awdry, Thomas has become one of the most iconic and enduring figures in children’s entertainment. His stories introduced generations of children to railway heritage and timeless lessons of friendship and teamwork.
The TVRM event honors that legacy with an immersive experience that brings Thomas to life. It’s not just about trains — it’s about the stories and smiles that make Thomas beloved across the globe.
Bonus Perk: Save on Another TVRM Favorite
Thomas ticket holders can enjoy a discount on the Missionary Ridge Local train ride — just show your Thomas ticket stub at the Grand Junction ticket window. Departure times for the Missionary Ridge Local are: 10:15, 11:20, 12:20, 1:45, 2:50, and 3:50.
This additional ride is a great opportunity to explore the TVRM grounds, including a trip through a pre-Civil War tunnel and a behind-the-scenes tour of the restoration shop. It’s an experience that complements the main event with fun for train lovers of all ages.
FAQs Answered:
- Is the event suitable for toddlers? Yes! The entire event is designed with young children in mind, and the Thomas train ride is safe, slow-paced, and interactive.
- Can I bring a stroller? Strollers are welcome on the grounds, but not on the train. There are stroller parking areas available at the boarding platform.
- Where should we park? Parking is available onsite at the Grand Junction Depot. Please plan to arrive at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure, and use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to adjust for any roadwork delays.
Historical Perspective
TVRM itself is a living railroad museum that has served Chattanooga and railfans since 1961. Events like Day Out With Thomas aren’t just for fun — they’re part of the broader mission to preserve railroading heritage. Kids who ride with Thomas today may grow into tomorrow’s preservationists, inspired by their early brush with railway magic.