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Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Missionary Ridge Local

The Missionary Ridge Local tag at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum highlights one of the most popular and historically significant train rides offered by the museum. This scenic route takes passengers on a nostalgic journey through the Missionary Ridge Tunnel, constructed in 1858, and showcases the industrial heritage of the Tennessee Valley region. The blog posts under this tag provide insights into the history of the route, the restoration of the trains that traverse it, and the unique experiences available to visitors, such as themed excursions and educational tours. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about local attractions, the Missionary Ridge Local at TVRM offers an engaging and enriching experience. Explore the posts to learn more about this remarkable railway adventure.

Steam, Sunsets & Scones in Chattanooga

Chattanooga was once the crossroads of Southern railroading, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has preserved that spirit since its 1961. This weekend, you can sample that legacy three different ways: ride behind 113-year-old steam star #630 on the Missionary Ridge Local, watch twilight roll in from the Evening Ridge Runner, and savor chef-crafted…

Steam, Tea & Mountains: Your Ultimate Chattanooga Rail Weekend

Welcome aboard — six ways to time-travel in a single weekend Chattanooga earned its place on the rail map in the 1850s, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) still lets you experience that golden age at full scale. Whether you have an hour or a whole day, the rides below turn casual getaways into…

All Aboard: Every Rail Journey at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

All Aboard: Every Rail Journey at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Whether you have an hour, an afternoon, or a whole day to spare, TVRM offers a lineup of distinct rail experiences that turn an ordinary weekend into a memory-making journey. Below is your guide to every regularly scheduled trip you can book right now—plus…

Rain or Shine: Unwind with Evening Rides and Tea Time at TVRM

When the skies are unpredictable, the best escape is one that stays steady on the rails. At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), every weekend offers an opportunity to ride into comfort, charm, and nostalgia—no umbrella required. From elegant evening departures to hands-on family fun, and even traditional high tea before a journey, TVRM welcomes…

All Aboard the Evening Ridge Runner: A Twilight Train Ride in Chattanooga

All Aboard the Evening Ridge Runner: A Twilight Train Ride in Chattanooga As the day fades into dusk and golden light spills across the Tennessee Valley, there’s no better way to experience Chattanooga’s charm than on the Evening Ridge Runner. This sunset train ride returns May 30, 2025, and operates every Friday and Saturday evening…

Cozy Train Rides Await This Rainy Weekend

Rain or Shine, the Magic Rolls On: Cozy Train Escapes This Weekend at TVRM Rainy days don’t have to spoil your weekend plans—in fact, they’re the perfect excuse to relax aboard a cozy train ride with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. This weekend, leave the umbrellas behind and step inside a vintage railcar for a…

A Mother’s Day to Remember: Dining, Rail Travel, and Family Fun at TVRM

A Mother’s Day to Remember: Dining, Rail Travel, and Family Fun at TVRM Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the amazing moms in your life? This Mother’s Day Weekend, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) invites you to step aboard a collection of rail experiences designed to delight, relax, and inspire. With options ranging…

(Video) – Steam in Motion: How 4501 Gets Ready for the Rails

Ever wonder what it takes to prepare a 114-year-old steam locomotive for action? At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), the work begins long before passengers board. In a recent behind-the-scenes moment, Frank Welsh and Joseph Randall walk us through the critical prep process for Southern Railway 4501—the museum’s beloved Steam Queen. This week, they’re…

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May 2, 2025

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(Video) – Ride with Thomas the Tank Engine in Chattanooga

🎈 It’s a Beautiful Day for a Ride with Thomas & Friends™ at TVRM! All aboard for family fun and railway magic! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) in Chattanooga invites you to spend a joyful spring day with the world’s most beloved blue engine—Thomas the Tank Engine™! As part of the 80th Anniversary Celebration…

(Video) – 🎉 Friendship, Fun & Steam: Thomas the Tank Engine’s 80th Rolls On at TVRM!

🎉 Friendship, Fun & Steam: Thomas the Tank Engine’s 80th Rolls On at TVRM! The skies may be cloudy, but at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, the joy is shining through! This weekend and next, we’re celebrating Thomas the Tank Engine’s 80th Anniversary in true steam-powered style—with real train rides, play stations, balloons, and enough…