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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Behind-the-Scenes at TVRM

Dive into the fascinating world of railroading with our “Behind-the-Scenes at TVRM” tag. This exclusive content offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, featuring updates, stories, and insights from the dedicated staff who keep the history of rail alive. Whether it’s restoration projects, the operation of vintage locomotives, or special event announcements, this category brings you closer to the action, providing an insider’s look at the TVRM’s commitment to preserving and celebrating railroad heritage.

Southern Railway No. 4501 to Return in Classic Passenger Livery for 2026

A Limited Celebratory Return for a Steam Icon TVRM Announces Celebratory Paint Projects At the Annual Banquet for the Railroad Passenger Car Alliance conference in Chattanooga, TN, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum announced that it’s iconic steam locomotive No. 4501 will return from her annual inspection wearing the classic Southern Railway passenger livery she entered…

Thank You for a Magical Christmas Season at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Thank You for a Magical Christmas Season at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum 🎄✨ What a season it’s been! ✨🎄 As our holiday trains head back to the depot and the last jingle bells fade into winter, all of us at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum want to say a heartfelt thank you to every family who rode…

🎄 Guests Having a Blast in the Homefront Tea Room: A Nostalgic Afternoon Tea with a Festive Train Ride to Follow

A Cozy Christmas Escape at the Homefront Tea Room Every December, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum transforms the humble traditions of the past into a warm, immersive celebration guests look forward to all year. One of the most beloved seasonal experiences is the Christmas Tea inside the Homefront Tea Room, a…

Steam Star Weekend at TVRM!

Celebrate a Steam-Powered Weekend at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum This weekend, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is alive with the unforgettable rhythm of steam! Engine #630 takes center stage on Saturday as she wraps up her operating season before heading into the shop for a well-deserved rebuild. Then on Sunday, she’ll share…

ThrowbackThursday — 4501 Rises Again, Railfest Rumbles, and Steam Returns to the Mainline!

Big Wheels, Bigger Work Fall 2013 marked a turning point at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM). Guests strolling through East Chattanooga may have seen sparks from the Soule Shops, but few realized they were witnessing the rebirth of Southern Railway 2-8-2 Mikado #4501. By late August, crews had slid three massive driving wheel axles…

🚂 All Aboard at Platform 4 ½! 🚂

🚂 All Aboard at Platform 4 ½! 🚂 Your Magical Adventure Awaits at Rails, Wizards & Spells Step Onto the Platform of Imagination This fall, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) opens its gates to a world of enchantment. Guests young and old are invited to step onto Platform 4 ½, where a vintage train…

Our Founder’s Day Celebration Keeps Rolling into Sunday

Steam, Heritage & Celebration The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to keep the steam alive as our Founder’s Day Celebration continues into Sunday! This is your chance to ride behind Southern Railway steam locomotive 630, operating in her authentic “in service” livery. Complete with a red number plate and Southern Hooter whistle, 630…

🚂 Founders Day Rides On at TVRM: Steam, Cinnamon Rolls & Living History

Founder’s Day Rides On at TVRM: Steam, Cinnamon Rolls & Living History A Steam-Powered Celebration Founder’s Day continues today at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), where steam locomotive 630 is fired up and powering the Missionary Ridge Local. The crisp fall air is filled with the sound of her whistle, the smell of coal…

A Complete August Guide to Train Rides at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

A Complete August Guide to Train Rides at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) isn’t just a place to see trains — it’s a place to ride them. Since 1961, TVRM has preserved not only historic rail equipment but also the experience of rail travel itself. Every ticket purchased supports…

Steam Whistles & Small-Town Wanders: Our Summerville Family Escape

Long before dawn’s glow kissed Chattanooga’s ridges, my family boarded the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s Summerville Steam Special—nine glorious hours of clanging rods, Southern fare, and small-town charm. According to TVRM, the train departs Grand Junction Depot at 9 a.m. and returns around 6 p.m., tracing the former Central of Georgia main line across the…

Hiwassee Loop Train Ride Through Tennessee’s Hiwassee River Gorge
  • Delano Trip
From $62 per person

Embark on a 4.5-hour journey through the lower Hiwassee River gorge, featuring the remarkable Hiwassee Loop. This 50-mile round trip starts at 1:30 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m., showcasing the natural beauty and railway marvels of Tennessee.