HOP ABOARD FOR SPRING SMILES WITH CONDUCTOR COTTONTAIL AT TVRM!

Hop Aboard for Spring Smiles with Conductor Cottontail at TVRM!

Springtime is in full swing, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a visit to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM)—especially when a very special guest is on duty! On April 18 & 19, before you hop on board your train ride, don’t miss your chance to meet Conductor Cottontail, TVRM’s fluffy, friendly Easter guest who’s bringing extra smiles to the Grand Junction Depot.

Whether you’re traveling with little ones or simply love seasonal fun, this experience is the perfect photo op and memory maker for families of all ages.

📍 Location: Grand Junction Depot

🗓️ Dates: April 18 & 19

🎟️ Book your train tickets here »

What to Expect at the Depot

Before the conductor says “All aboard!”, families are invited to visit with Conductor Cottontail, who will be greeting guests and posing for photos at the depot. Children can meet the bunny in a charming railroad-themed setting—complete with vintage train cars and springtime decorations.

📸 Photo Opportunity: Snap a keepsake picture with Conductor Cottontail

🐇 Family Fun: Perfect for toddlers, school-aged children, and multigenerational outings

🎉 Spring Surprise: A seasonal twist to your train ride experience

It’s not every day you meet a bunny in a conductor’s hat—and this one is ready to make your day even more magical.

FAQs

• Do we need a separate ticket to meet Conductor Cottontail?
  • No separate ticket is needed! This meet-and-greet is included as part of your train ride experience at Grand Junction Depot on April 18 or 19.
• Will Conductor Cottontail be available all day?
  • Yes, Conductor Cottontail will be present throughout the day, greeting guests before each departure. Arrive early to allow plenty of time for photos and fun.
• Is this suitable for very young children?
  • Absolutely! This event is ideal for families with little ones. The environment is friendly, relaxed, and filled with opportunities to create cheerful spring memories.

Why It Matters

At TVRM, we believe in blending timeless rail experiences with seasonal celebrations that bring joy to every generation. Events like this not only create smiles today, but also deepen connections to community and tradition. And in a world of fast-paced schedules and screens, the chance to meet a character like Conductor Cottontail in person—at a real working train station—is a rare and meaningful experience.

While not “historical” in the traditional sense, the setting of Grand Junction Depot adds authenticity and charm, making every interaction feel rooted in nostalgia and warmth.

Planning Your Visit

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit with Conductor Cottontail:

• Arrive 30–45 minutes early to allow time for check-in and photos

• Bring your camera or phone for pictures

• Dress in spring colors for a festive family photo

• After your visit, hop on board for your scheduled train ride, including options like the Missionary Ridge Local

🎟️ See train ride options & book online »

Duration

• Time with Conductor Cottontail: ~15–20 minutes before each scheduled departure

• Train ride duration: ~65 minutes

• Total experience: ~1.5 to 2 hours

A Moment to Remember

There’s something magical about springtime at the depot—especially when it includes a surprise visit from a bunny with a love for locomotives. For kids, it’s the joy of seeing a storybook character come to life. For parents, it’s a priceless photo and memory. And for all of us, it’s a celebration of togetherness and tradition.

Don’t miss this seasonal moment at TVRM. Conductor Cottontail will be hopping down the tracks soon!