Tennessee Valley Railroad News

Southern Railway

Explore the illustrious history of the Southern Railway at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Discover meticulously restored locomotives and carriages that once traversed the Southern states, and learn how this iconic railway line played a crucial role in regional development and culture. Engaging exhibits and knowledgeable guides provide insights into the Southern Railway’s impact on industry, transportation, and the lives of those it served. Experience a piece of Southern heritage on a journey through railroading history.

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A Glimpse into the Past: Tunnel Boulevard’s Transformation

A Glimpse into the Past: Tunnel Boulevard’s Transformation Dive into a bygone era with a captivating black and white photograph from the mid-1950s of Tunnel Boulevard. The image, steeped in nostalgia, features the grandeur of an arched railway tunnel, a marvel of its time, surrounded by the lushness of nature’s canopy. Weathered by the elements,…

January 19, 2016

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Historic Preservation, Railroad History And Heritage

Southern 4501: Steam Power’s Resilient Icon

The Renaissance of Southern Railway 4501: A Journey Through Time The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has always been a place where history comes alive, and the recent installation of a new roller bearing trailing truck underneath the firebox of the Southern Railway 4501 steam engine is a perfect example of this commitment to preserving…

January 9, 2014

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Historic Preservation, Locomotive Restoration Updates, Railroad History And Heritage

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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