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Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know before visiting the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Plan your visit to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Explore train ride routes, directions, parking information, schedules, nearby hotels, weather conditions, and helpful travel tips to make the most of your experience.

Quick Trip Planning
• Location: Chattanooga, TN
• Ticket Required: Yes
• Operating Days: Varies by ride
• Parking: On-site available
• Nearest Airport: CHA (20 minutes)

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a museum in motion.

Unlike traditional museums filled with static display cases, TVRM’s historic trains are the exhibits. When you ride the train, you’re stepping directly into living railroad history—experiencing restored locomotives, vintage railcars, and scenic routes exactly as they were meant to be enjoyed.

All guests must purchase a ticket to ride, as train operations and excursions directly support TVRM’s ongoing mission of railroad preservation, restoration, and education for future generations.

QUICK ANSWERS BEFORE YOU RIDE


TRAIN ROUTES & RAIL MAPS

Explore detailed maps of our scenic train routes, including Chattanooga excursions, Missionary Ridge Local, and regional rail adventures.


Hiwassee River Railroad Route Map

Hiwassee River Railroad Route Map

Embark on the Hiwassee River Rail Adventure Today

This route map highlights the Hiwassee River Railroad operated by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, departing from Delano, Tennessee.

The map outlines two primary experiences:

  • A shorter scenic loop through the lower Hiwassee River Gorge

  • A full-day excursion to Copperhill and McCaysville, featuring a layover to explore shops, dining, and the Tennessee–Georgia state line

Use this map to better understand the railroad’s layout, key landmarks along the route, and how each train ride experience differs in length and destination.

Steam Train to Summerville

Scenic Steam Journey from Chattanooga to Summerville, Georgia

Ride the Summerville Steam Special Map

This route map highlights the Summerville Steam Special, tracing the full journey from Grand Junction Depot in Chattanooga to Summerville, Georgia. The map showcases key towns, landmarks, and mileage along the line, helping guests visualize the full-day steam excursion and its scenic progression through North Georgia.

Missionary Ridge Local Train Route Map

See the Missionary Ridge Local Route Through Chattanooga


Missionary Ridge Local train route map showing Grand Junction Station, East Chattanooga Depot, and the TVRM backshop

This illustrated route map highlights the Missionary Ridge Local train ride, including Grand Junction Station, East Chattanooga Depot, and TVRM’s active restoration backshop. The map also notes parking locations and key points along the journey, helping guests plan their visit before boarding.


CHATTANOOGA WEATHER FORECAST

Check current weather conditions before your visit to help plan your train ride experience.

CHATTANOOGA WEATHER

CHATTANOOGA TRAFFIC CONDITIONS

Click the map to view live Chattanooga traffic and driving directions

CHATTANOOGA HOTELS

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is pleased to partner with some of the best hotels in the Chattanooga area. For more information on packages and/or special rates, we encourage you to explore the following options below. Click on the logo to visit the hotel’s website ↓

Elegance Redefined at The Read House

Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury in Chattanooga

The Read House Hotel in Chattanooga, reborn in 2018, blends historic 1920s elegance with modern comforts. This Jazz-era gem features a grand lobby with chandeliers and checkerboard floors. It offers 241 rooms, including Tower and Manor rooms, each uniquely styled. Guests enjoy benefits like priority room upgrades, champagne at check-in, and a noon check-out. The hotel, a contender in Travel + Leisure’s 2024 World’s Best Awards, boasts Bridgeman’s Chophouse and a Bar & Billiards room. Ideal for weddings and events, The Read House is a symbol of enduring grandeur in downtown Chattanooga.

Sonesta Select: Chattanooga's Gem

Comfort & Convenience Near Chattanooga Attractions

Select Chattanooga Hamilton Place offers a comfortable stay near top attractions like Hamilton Place Mall and Tennessee Aquarium. The pet-friendly hotel features plush rooms with amenities like free WiFi, mini-fridges, and a pool. Ideal for both leisure and business, with meeting rooms and a patio. Enjoy the convenience of being close to Erlanger East Hospital, Chattanooga Airport, and local colleges. The hotel’s location and amenities cater to a variety of needs for a memorable stay.

Downtown Chattanooga Holiday Inn

Modern Comforts in the Heart of the City


Holiday Inn & Suites Chattanooga Downtown offers stylish, modern rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and on-site dining at Rodizio Brazilian Steakhouse. Located near attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium and AT&T Field, it’s ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Features include Tesla chargers, a pool, meeting facilities, and kids eat free policy. The hotel is close to local businesses and medical centers, making it a convenient choice for various visitors.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chattanooga Hamilton Place

Comfort & Convenience

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chattanooga Hamilton Place offers a comfortable stay with amenities like free breakfast, WiFi, and parking. Located off I-75, near Hamilton Place Mall and Chattanooga Airport, it’s 20 minutes from downtown attractions. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, indoor pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly rooms. Enjoy convenient services like digital check-in and Hilton Honors benefits. Ideal for group events, with easy access to local sites and airport.

ADDITIONAL ATTRACTIONS

We are delighted to collaborate with premier Chattanooga attractions to enhance your experience. For details on exclusive package deals and special rates, please consider the options listed below.


All Aboard TVMRI

Connecting Train Enthusiasts at TVMRI

Join TVMRi's Model Railroad Open Houses

Tennessee Valley Model Railroaders, Inc. (TVMRI) was founded in 2019 to unite model train enthusiasts. With over fifty years promoting the hobby, TVMRI operates an HO scale railroad and is planning clinics and events. Members often belong to the NMRA. Visits can be arranged via email. Join their Open Houses for a closer look.

Explore Vibrant Chattanooga

Your Ultimate Guide to Chattanooga’s Wonders

chattanooga tourism logo

Chattanooga Tourism Co. presents the city as a top-rated destination for visitors. Nestled in Southeast Tennessee by the Tennessee River, it’s celebrated for its natural beauty and vibrant city life. The tourism site offers information on things to do, events, dining, and hotels, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. It promotes local culture, outdoor adventures, and unique dining experiences, inviting tourists to explore the city’s rich heritage and contemporary charm through various activities and events.

EXPLORE THE SECRETS OF RAILROADING: A JOURNEY THROUGH THE TENNESSEE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM'S HISTORY

Locomotive Restoration Updates

Reviving History: Locomotive Restorations at TVRM

Follow our dedicated team as they breathe new life into historic locomotives, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.

Upcoming Events at TVRM

TVRM Events: Seasonal Rides & Celebrations Ahead

Stay updated with our exciting calendar of events – from seasonal train rides to special celebrations, there’s always something happening at TVRM.

Railroad History and Heritage

Tracing Railroads: From Origins to Modern Impact

Dive into the rich history of the railroad industry and the essential role it played in shaping our nation, from early development to modern times.

Historic Preservation

TVRM: Reviving Railroad Legacy for Future Generations

Explore living history at TVRM: restored locomotives and railcars narrate the story of rail’s impact, keeping the past alive for future generations.

Featured Exhibits

Discover TVRM's Exhibits: A Journey Through Rail History

Explore the fascinating exhibits at TVRM, each one offering unique insights into different aspects of railway technology, history, and culture.

Behind-the-Scenes at TVRM

Inside TVRM: Unveiling Railroading's Hidden World

Explore railroading at TVRM with exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Discover updates, staff insights, and the preservation of railway history.