Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Historic Train Travel

The Origins and Evolution of the Chattanooga Choo Choo

The Origins and Evolution of the Chattanooga Choo Choo Few phrases in American history carry the cultural weight of “choo choo” — two simple syllables that conjure steam, speed, and a city that became synonymous with both. The Chattanooga Choo Choo is far more than a catchy name. It’s a layered story spanning a pioneering…

January 4, 2026

Posted in: Historic Preservation, Railroad History And Heritage

Ride the Summerville Steam Special This Weekend

Steam Queen Returns: The 2025 Summerville Steam Special Debuts in Style The steam season begins with a thundering start as Southern Railway 4501—the beloved Steam Queen—leads the first Summerville Steam Special of 2025! On this all-day excursion, passengers will journey through the scenic North Georgia countryside, relax in vintage railcars, and visit the welcoming town…

April 29, 2025

Posted in: Featured Exhibits, Upcoming Events At TVRM

All Aboard! July 27 and August 24 Just Added to the Summerville Steam Special 2024 Schedule

All Aboard! New Dates Added for the Summerville Steam Special in 2024 We’re thrilled to announce that the Summerville Steam Special has added two new dates to its 2024 schedule! Join us on July 27th and August 24th for an unforgettable journey through the picturesque foothills of North Georgia from Chattanooga, TN to Summerville, GA….

June 12, 2024

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Historic Preservation, Upcoming Events At TVRM

Most Popular

From $26 per person

All Ages
1–1.5 Hours
Educational, Relaxed

Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride

January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2026 EDT

Enjoy a 65-minute narrated train ride through Chattanooga featuring historic bridges, a pre-Civil War tunnel, a live turntable demonstration, and a guided visit to our active restoration shop — an engaging, family-friendly introduction to railroading at TVRM.

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From $110 per person

All Ages
2-3 Hours

Chattanooga Dinner Train Experience

March 6, 2026 - October 24, 2026 EDT

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Dinner Train is a unique opportunity to enjoy a railroad excursion trip and fine dining en route. The train travels through the Tennessee Valley, making this a perfect outing for anyone who loves trains and good food.

Reserve Your Table Live availability · Limited seating

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Delano Trip

From $62 per person

All Ages
4-6 Hours

Hiwassee Loop Train Ride Through Tennessee’s Hiwassee River Gorge

March 29, 2026 - November 22, 2026 EDT

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.

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From $60 per person

All Ages
4-6 Hours

Chickamauga Turn

March 28, 2026 - November 1, 2026 EDT

Ride a 6-hour round-trip train from Chattanooga to Chickamauga, Georgia, with a 90-minute stop to explore the Gordon-Lee Mansion, Crawfish Springs, and downtown shops. Lunch options are available onboard, making this an easy, well-paced day trip by rail.

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From $90 per person

All Ages
Full-Day Experience

Summerville Steam Special

May 9, 2026 - November 8, 2026 EDT

Experience the beauty of the Summerville Steam Special, a 9-hour train ride from Chattanooga to Summerville, GA. Enjoy a layover for exploration, with optional dining services and a tea-in-a-box selection available onboard for Georgia trains.

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Delano Trip

From $80 per person

All Ages
Full-Day Experience

Copperhill Special

April 1, 2026 - December 11, 2026 EDT

Enjoy a full-day scenic train journey through the Hiwassee River Gorge on the Copperhill Special. Travel historic rails, take in mountain and river views, and enjoy a 90-minute layover in Copperhill and McCaysville to explore shops, dining, and the state line before returning.

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