STEP INTO MAGIC — A WIZARDING RIDE AWAITS AT TVRM
🧙♂️ All Aboard for Magic!
This fall, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum opens the gates once more to Rails, Wizards & Spells — an imaginative, family-friendly experience where fantasy meets railroading tradition. From the moment you pass through the Enchanted Forest entrance to the final spell aboard your train car, every detail is curated to transport guests into a magical realm.
Much like TVRM’s commitment to preserving rail heritage, this ride blends entertainment with rich storytelling and vintage travel — giving visitors of all ages a memory they’ll treasure.
🔮 Your Magical Ticket Includes:
- The Enchanted Forest Entrance — Walk beneath lantern-lit trees as mystical sounds and soft lights lead you to Wizards Way.
- Wizards Way Village — Browse hand-crafted wands, magical curiosities, and seasonal delights. Don’t miss this year’s addition: hayrides!
- Boarding at Platform 4½ — Join Professors Americus Hillmore and Daliah Jade as you ride aboard a vintage train through a spellbound Southern landscape.
- Chamberlain Crossing Station — Watch potions demonstrations, shop for magical trinkets, and witness the engine’s turning ceremony.
- A Spellbinding Encounter — Chat with Professor Hillmore, who brings humor, heart, and a touch of mischief to every event.
🎫 Ticket Options
- Wizard Experience — $35
Includes enchanted train ride and full access to Wizards Way Village. - Spells & Potions Special Tea — $60
Includes everything in the Wizard Experience plus a themed high tea with whimsical treats and wizard-worthy table service.
🎭 Costumes are encouraged. Come dressed as your favorite magical character and become part of the experience!
🕰️ Event Details
- Departure Point: Grand Junction Depot, Chattanooga, TN
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes round trip + time to explore Wizards Way Village
- Dates: Select fall weekends (schedule online)
- Parking: On-site, free of charge
🧾 A Touch of Railroad Heritage
In April 1980, Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander visited the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum to dedicate the East Chattanooga Depot—despite a massive rainstorm dropping over five inches of rain. Around 100 guests gathered as the Governor, joined by Chattanooga Mayor Pat Rose and County Executive Dalton Roberts, praised TVRM’s accomplishments. He noted that although TVRM is the official railway museum of Tennessee, it had received no public funds for construction or operations. After the ceremony, Locomotive 630 pulled a special post-dedication train consisting of RPO 39, Coach 661, and Southern Railway’s parlor dome car 1602.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Are food and drink available outside of the tea experience?
Yes, seasonal snacks and drinks are available for purchase in Wizards Way Village.
Q2: Are pets allowed?
No pets, but service animals are welcome.