(VIDEO) – BEHIND THE STEAM: THE TEAM POWERING DAY OUT WITH THOMAS™
Behind the Steam: The Team Powering Day Out With Thomas™
Every great train needs a crew—and behind the scenes at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), it’s a team of dedicated professionals and passionate volunteers who make the magic of Day Out With Thomas™ come to life. As we celebrate the final day of the 80th Anniversary Party Tour, we want to shine a spotlight on the people working tirelessly to ensure this celebration rolls smoothly down the tracks.
From safety checks to character meet-and-greets, it’s not just about running trains—it’s about creating lasting memories.
🎟️ Grab your tickets for today’s afternoon trains before the event ends »
What Happens Behind the Scenes
While families enjoy rides with Thomas, bubbles, tattoos, and steam engine #630 sharing the rails, TVRM’s crew works with clockwork precision:
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Train Engineers & Conductors ensure every ride is safe, on time, and powered with care
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Mechanical Staff inspect and prep each locomotive before and after every run
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Event Volunteers manage crowd flow, operate activity zones, and help with guest questions
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Operations Team handles ticketing, communications, and emergency planning—all in real time
This level of coordination is no small feat. Hosting thousands of guests during a multi-day event requires teamwork, training, and a deep respect for the railway legacy TVRM upholds.
FAQs
- Are the trains real?
- Yes! Thomas is a specially equipped locomotive designed for the event, but steam engine #630 is an authentic, fully operational steam locomotive, built in 1904. You’re experiencing real railroading history.
- Why is the staff so enthusiastic?
- Most of the event team are volunteers and railroad enthusiasts. Many donate their time to preserve rail heritage and share their passion with younger generations.
Final Day Highlights
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🚂 Rides with Thomas the Tank Engine™
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🎩 Meet Sir Topham Hatt
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🫧 Bubble stations & magic shows
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🎨 Creative play zones, mini golf, tattoos, balloon animals
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🔥 Steam engine #630 operating alongside Thomas
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🎁 Bonus: Thomas ticket holders get a discount on the Missionary Ridge Local
Why This Matters
This event does more than celebrate Thomas & Friends™—it introduces families to the living legacy of American railroading. TVRM preserves the sights, sounds, and sensations of real rail travel, and Day Out With Thomas™ helps pass that passion to the next generation.
Today’s experience is only possible thanks to the museum’s dedication to authenticity, safety, and storytelling. And while it may be the final day of this year’s Party Tour, the impact of one special train ride may last a lifetime.
Duration & Schedule
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The event runs through late afternoon today (Sunday, April 13)
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Thomas ride: ~25 minutes
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Missionary Ridge Local (discounted): ~65 minutes
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Activities open throughout the day
Tips for Visiting Today
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Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train time
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Bring sunscreen, snacks, and a water bottle
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Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot to explore
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Check in at Grand Junction Depot (4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga)
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Show your Thomas ticket at the ticket agent window for your Missionary Ridge Local discount
Don’t Miss the Final Departure!
This is your last chance to be part of a one-of-a-kind celebration that combines cherished childhood characters with the real world of railroading. Whether you’re here for the family fun, the steam engines, or the smiles on your child’s face, this is a day you’ll never forget.