Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions Is this experience good for kids? Yes — many of our Chattanooga train rides are designed for families and first-time riders. The Missionary Ridge Local is a great option for kids and adults alike, with live narration and engaging moments along the route. How long are the train rides? Ride length depends on the experience you choose. Many Chattanooga rides are around one hour, such as the Missionary Ridge Local, while dining trains and special events may run two to three hours. Full-day excursions are also available on select dates. Do the trains run year-round? Yes — Chattanooga departures run throughout the year, with a mix of classic excursions plus seasonal and special-event rides that rotate by time of year. Is this a good first train ride? Absolutely. If it’s your first time riding with us, we recommend the Missionary Ridge Local — it’s a comfortable, narrated ride that’s easy to fit into a Chattanooga visit. Where do rides depart from? Chattanooga-area rides typically depart from our Grand Junction Depot in Chattanooga. Your confirmation email and ride details will list the exact departure location and arrival time for your specific experience.

Chattanooga Train Rides for Families, Couples & First-Time Visitors

Ride historic trains, enjoy live narration, and experience Chattanooga from the rails — with options from quick one-hour rides to full-day excursions.

Winter is a wonderful time to experience the railroad at a slower pace. After the holiday rush, enjoy cozy railcars, views, and family-friendly outings that highlight Chattanooga’s rail heritage. From festive evening rides to classics like the Missionary Ridge Local, these post-holiday experiences are perfect for visitors and locals alike.

View Winter Train Rides & Tickets Including Holiday Lights & Missionary Ridge Local

🚂 Relaxing & Unhurried
Enjoy Chattanooga from the rails—no traffic, no rushing, just time to slow down and enjoy the ride.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for All Ages
Designed to be easy and enjoyable for families, first-time riders, and longtime rail fans alike.

💺Comfortable & Welcoming
Spacious seating, thoughtfully restored railcars, and friendly onboard crews throughout your ride. Heated railcars during winter rides.

📍Feels Uniquely Chattanooga
A local experience that connects scenery, stories, and the character of the region.

Train Rides Departing from Chattanooga, Tennessee

Experience Chattanooga Train Rides

Discover unforgettable train rides in Chattanooga with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Step aboard beautifully restored railcars, travel active rail lines, and enjoy engaging narration that brings the region’s rail legacy to life. These experiences are ideal for families, couples, and visitors looking for a unique Chattanooga attraction.

Why Ride with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum?

Authentic rail experiences: Ride original routes, cross historic bridges, and pass through a pre–Civil War tunnel.
Engaging onboard narration: Knowledgeable guides add context and meaning to every ride.
Welcoming for all ages: Ideal for family outings, date nights, and group visits.
Year-round variety: Enjoy classic excursions alongside rotating seasonal and special-event train rides.

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Runs After Christmas

From $25 per person

All Ages
1–2 Hours

Holiday Christmas Lights Train

December 26, 2025 - January 11, 2026 EST

Enjoy the season’s sparkle aboard the Holiday Christmas Lights Train! Relax after Christmas with a cozy evening ride through softly illuminated displays and classic railroad charm. This family-friendly experience offers a peaceful way to extend the holiday spirit with a warm, comfortable train ride and a timeless winter atmosphere.

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Most Popular

From $26 per person

All Ages
1 Hour

Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride

January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2026 EST

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 $125 per person

All Ages
2-3 Hours

Valentine Train Ride

February 6, 2026 - February 15, 2026 EST

This event offers a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a special train ride that includes a four-course meal. This event is a great way to enjoy a romantic evening out while also traveling through Chattanooga.

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From $45 per person

All Ages
75-minute tea experience

The Homefront Tea Room

January 1, 2026 - February 1, 2026 EST

Step into timeless elegance at the Homefront Tea Room — a “Tea in the Depot” experience combining classic afternoon tea with a nostalgic train ride. Savor delightful treats and Southern charm before enjoying a 65-minute journey aboard the Missionary Ridge Local from Grand Junction Depot.

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From $58 per person

All Ages
4-6 Hours

Chickamauga Turn

April 18, 2026 - October 31, 2026 EST

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
8–9 Hours (Full Day)

Summerville Steam Special

May 2, 2026 - November 9, 2026 EST

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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Family Favorite

From $28.85 per person

All Ages
2-3 Hours

Day Out With Thomas™ 2026

April 18, 2026 - April 26, 2026 EST

Returning in Spring 2026! Day Out With Thomas™: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour brings a real train ride with Thomas, music-themed activities, photo ops, and exclusive merchandise—plus the outdoor Music Corner with games, hands-on fun, and dancing for the whole family.

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From $120 per person

Ages 10+
4-6 Hours

Dinner in the Depot

January 1, 2026 - December 31, 2026 EST

Experience an elegant evening of fine dining and vintage railroading at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Enjoy a five-course gourmet meal inside Grand Junction Depot followed by a relaxing one-hour evening train ride. Please note: This event takes place in the Depot, not on the Dinner Train.

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Planning your visit? Here are answers to the most common questions about Chattanooga train rides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience good for kids?

Yes — many of our Chattanooga train rides are designed for families and first-time riders. The Missionary Ridge Local is a great option for kids and adults alike, with live narration and engaging moments along the route.

How long are the train rides?

Ride length depends on the experience you choose. Many Chattanooga rides are around one hour, such as the Missionary Ridge Local, while dining trains and special events may run two to three hours. Full-day excursions are also available on select dates.

Do the trains run year-round?

Yes — Chattanooga departures run throughout the year, with a mix of classic excursions plus seasonal and special-event rides that rotate by time of year.

Is this a good first train ride?

Absolutely. If it’s your first time riding with us, we recommend the Missionary Ridge Local — it’s a comfortable, narrated ride that’s easy to fit into a Chattanooga visit.

Where do rides depart from?

Chattanooga-area rides typically depart from our Grand Junction Depot in Chattanooga. Your confirmation email and ride details will list the exact departure location and arrival time for your specific experience.