Tennessee Valley Railroad News

TVRM

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) section of our blog offers readers an exclusive glimpse into the world of railroad heritage preservation. Our posts focus on the latest developments and events at the museum, showcasing its significant role in keeping the history of rail transport alive. As a hub for railroad history enthusiasts and the general public alike, TVRM is not just a museum; it’s an active preservation site where the past is continually brought to life through meticulously restored locomotives, historic railcars, and interactive exhibits. Each blog entry delves deep into the fascinating stories behind our collections, offering insights into the technological advancements and cultural impacts of railroading. Our aim is to educate and engage our audience with accurate and enthralling historical details, bringing the golden age of rail travel into the present day and demonstrating its lasting relevance in our lives. Whether you’re a lifelong train aficionado or a newcomer to the world of railroads, our blog serves as a reliable and enriching source of knowledge, celebrating the enduring legacy of the rails.

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Thomas Returns to TVRM! Join the Fun May 11-12 & 18-19

Thomas the Tank Engine Returns to the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum! The big blue and white tent is up at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), and that can only mean one thing: Thomas the Tank Engine is coming back to town! Join us for an exciting Day Out With Thomas on May 11-12 and…

May 7, 2019

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

A Thrilling Weekend of Steam at TVRM: Ride with Steam Star #630 and #4501 on the Summerville Special & Missionary Ridge Local!

Great news, steam train enthusiasts! This weekend promises to be a memorable one at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM). It’s not just a regular weekend; it’s a great weekend of steam that you’ll remember for years to come. Steam Star #630 – The Summerville Steam Special The real star of the show will be…

April 4, 2019

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Featured Exhibits, Upcoming Events At TVRM

A Tribute to TVRM’s Joyce Soule

Remembering Joyce H. Soule: A Pillar of TVRM The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our cherished life member and tireless volunteer, Joyce H. Soule, on January 25, 2019. Surrounded by her loving family, Joyce, a stalwart of Chattanooga for 60 years, left behind an incredible legacy. The…

January 26, 2019

Posted in: Historic Preservation, Locomotive Restoration Updates, Railroad History And Heritage

2019 Excursion & Special Events Schedule available now!

2019 Excursion & Special Events: Unveiling the Adventure! Great news for all train enthusiasts and adventure seekers! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is thrilled to announce that our 2019 Excursion and Special Events Schedule is now available for viewing and booking. This year promises to be one of the most exciting and fulfilling for…

January 24, 2019

Posted in: Featured Exhibits, Upcoming Events At TVRM

Support TVRM This Giving Tuesday!

Join Us This Giving Tuesday to Preserve Railroad Heritage Today marks a global day of generosity, #GivingTuesday, a time when communities around the world come together in the spirit of giving. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is proud to take part in this movement, with a focused mission to preserve railroad heritage and increase…

November 27, 2018

Posted in: Historic Preservation, Locomotive Restoration Updates, Railroad History And Heritage, Railway Photography, School Field Trips And Education

Smoke & Cinders (3rd Quarter 2018) – Doubleheading at TVRM

Doubleheading at TVRM If there’s anything more exciting than a train powered by a steam locomotive, it’s a train powered by two steam locomotives. Some of our most popular excursions include TVRM’s Summerville Steam Specials, when Southern 630 and 4501 are on the point. While these trips provide a lot of sensory stimulation, a more…

September 12, 2018

Posted in: Smoke & Cinders

TVRM’s Night at the Ballpark: Conductor Throws First Pitch

TVRM’s Night at the Ballpark: Conductor Throws First Pitch Tonight marks a special occasion for both baseball fans and railroad enthusiasts as the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) joins the Chattanooga Lookouts for an evening of sport and community spirit. TVRM’s very own Conductor Dave Johnston will be throwing the first pitch of the night,…

August 10, 2018

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

Group Train Tours on the Missionary Ridge Local in Chattanooga

All Aboard with Burke Christian Tours: A Group Ride on the Missionary Ridge Local The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum recently welcomed Burke Christian Tours for a group ride aboard the Missionary Ridge Local. This experience offered their guests a relaxed, engaging introduction to railroading in Chattanooga, combining live narration, historic infrastructure, and a comfortably paced…

June 9, 2018

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Featured Exhibits, Railroad History And Heritage, School Field Trips And Education, Upcoming Events At TVRM

Tyler Chipman’s Journey: From Thomas Fan to TVRM Staff

Throwback Thursday: Tyler Chipman’s Inspiring Journey at TVRM Today’s Throwback Thursday is a heartwarming tale of passion and dedication, featuring Tyler Chipman and long-time volunteer Robert Frye. Their story at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) embodies the spirit of growth and love for trains. A Young Fan Turns into a TVRM Employee The top…

May 3, 2018

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Featured Exhibits, Upcoming Events At TVRM

Day Out With Thomas at TVRM

All Aboard for a Day Out With Thomas at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Since 1999, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum has been a destination for the beloved #tbt event featuring Thomas the Tank Engine and his friend Sir Topham Hatt. This year, we’re excited to welcome them back for three special weekends: April 28-29, May…

April 26, 2018

Posted in: Behind-the-Scenes At TVRM, Featured Exhibits, Upcoming Events At TVRM

Most Popular

From $26 per per person

All Ages
1–1.5 Hours
Educational, Relaxed

Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride

January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026 EDT

Ride vintage passenger cars through Chattanooga, pass through the pre–Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel, watch a working turntable demonstration, and tour TVRM’s active restoration shop—all in about 65 minutes.

Book Now

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From $110 per person

All Ages
2-3 Hours

Chattanooga Dinner Train Experience

March 6, 2026 - October 24, 2026 EDT

Enjoy a memorable 2–3 hour evening train ride with a three-course dinner served aboard restored vintage dining cars in Chattanooga.

Reserve Your Table Live availability · Limited seating

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Delano Trip

From $62 per person

All Ages
4-6 Hours

Ride the Hiwassee Loop

March 29, 2026 - November 22, 2026 EDT

Ride 50 scenic miles round trip from Delano through Tennessee’s Hiwassee River Gorge. This approximately 4½-hour journey follows the river through forested mountains and crosses the rare spiral loop near Farner, where the track climbs and passes over itself.

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From $60 per per person

All Ages
4-6 Hours

Chickamauga Turn

March 28, 2026 - November 1, 2026 EDT

Travel from Chattanooga to Chickamauga, Georgia, on a six-hour day trip with approximately 90 minutes to explore downtown. Choose from coach, meal, premium, and private-car options for a classic rail experience through the Tennessee–Georgia countryside.

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From $90 per person

Summerville Steam Special

May 9, 2026 - November 8, 2026 EDT

Travel behind a historic steam locomotive on a full-day journey from Chattanooga to Summerville, Georgia. The approximately nine-hour round trip includes vintage railcars, North Georgia scenery, and a one-hour Summerville layover, with coach and meal-inclusive seating options available.

Book Now

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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.

Choose Date & Buy Tickets Live availability

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