Quick Details
Celebrate the holidays with a charming Christmas Tea Room experience at Grand Junction Depot! Enjoy an elegant afternoon of festive teas, savory bites, and sweet treats — with the option to add a Missionary Ridge Local train ride for a truly magical holiday outing. Perfect for families, friends, or a cozy seasonal escape.
Tea - No Train Ride
Priced per person
$ 45
Tea - With Train Ride
Priced per person
$ 60
Join us for a Festive Holiday Tea Room Experience in the cozy upstairs viewing room of Grand Junction Depot! From November 8, 2025, through January 4, 2026, enjoy a delightful afternoon filled with the warmth and flavors of the season.
Savor a curated selection of premium teas and a full high tea service featuring savory bites, sweet treats, and our favorite — freshly baked scones. For guests looking to enhance the experience, add an optional Missionary Ridge Local train ride to complete your holiday outing with a touch of vintage rail charm.
Each tea seating lasts approximately 75 minutes, offering the perfect opportunity to relax, indulge, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
✨ Availability is limited — reserve early! Treat yourself to an unforgettable afternoon of delicious food, charming company, and the cozy holiday magic of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
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Description
Experience the holiday magic with a festive tea room event at Grand Junction Depot. Enjoy a delightful selection of teas, savory bites, sweet treats, and freshly baked scones. After tea, explore the holiday decorations around the property and take a memorable train ride.
What’s included
- Full high tea experience with savory bites, sweet treats, and freshly baked scones
- A selection of teas, including seasonal options
- Access to the holiday-decorated exhibit building
What’s not included
- Train ride (available for an additional fee)
- Seasonal champagne cocktails (available for purchase)
Itinerary
- Arrival at Grand Junction Depot – Check in and meet at the upstairs viewing room.
- Holiday High Tea – Enjoy a festive 75-minute tea session with various teas, savory bites, and sweet treats.
- Optional Train Ride – For those with the train ride option, board for a holiday ride.
- Explore the Property – After tea, take time to explore the holiday decorations around the property.
Highlights
- Holiday-Themed High Tea – Savor seasonal teas and a delightful spread of sweet and savory items in a festive atmosphere.
- Freshly Baked Scones – Enjoy freshly made scones, the highlight of the tea experience.
- Optional Train Ride – For guests who opt for the train ride, take a holiday journey.
- Holiday Decorations – After tea, explore the stunning holiday decorations at Grand Junction Depot.
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Check-in details
- Check-In Details: Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled tea session for check-in and seating.
- What to Bring: Smart casual attire and a camera to capture festive moments.
What to bring
- Smart casual attire for a festive afternoon
- Camera to capture holiday moments
Special requirements
Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Restrictions
- No outside food or beverages allowed.
- Train ride not included unless you purchase the “Tea with Train Ride” option.
Extras
Seasonal Champagne Cocktails: Available for purchase at an additional cost (ID required).
Disclaimers
- Menu and beverage selections are subject to change.
- Trip Protection must be purchased during the initial booking.
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What is the Home Front Tea Room experience?
The Home Front Tea Room experience is a unique train ride offered by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. It combines the charm of vintage rail travel with an immersive tea service that captures the atmosphere of the 1940s wartime era. Guests can enjoy delicious tea and treats while experiencing the nostalgia of a time when train travel was a primary mode of transportation.
What makes the Home Front Tea Room experience unique?
This experience stands out due to its historical theme and attention to detail. Guests are transported back to the 1940s with authentic décor, period music, and a curated menu reminiscent of the wartime home front. It’s not just a train ride but a step into history, offering an engaging activity for families, history enthusiasts, and tea lovers alike. The event emphasizes the sense of community and resilience experienced during the wartime era, making it a one-of-a-kind outing.
Are reservations required?
Yes, reservations are required. We recommend booking early as spots fill up quickly.
Can we bring our own food or beverages?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed, but alcoholic beverages can be purchased on-site.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options available?
Yes, please contact us at least 24 hours in advance so we can accommodate dietary needs. We cannot accommodate day-of requests.
Is gratuity or alcohol included in the ticket price?
Gratuity and alcoholic beverages are not included in the ticket price.
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About Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum:
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a railway museum located in Chattanooga and Delano, Tennessee. It was established in 1961 to preserve and operate historic railway equipment for the education and enjoyment of future generations. The museum features a variety of vintage trains and railcars, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars. Visitors can experience the history of rail travel through excursions, exhibits, and hands-on activities. The museum operates on a historic rail line, offering scenic rides through the Hiwassee Loop and providing a unique perspective on the region’s history and culture. With its rich heritage, educational programs, and engaging events, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
As a non-profit organization, it takes a lot of resources to restore and maintain our vintage trains and equipment. In fact, it can cost up to $1.5 million to completely rebuild a steam engine, which must be done every 15 years or sooner. Your support helps us to continue to share this important piece of history with the community. So not only are you enjoying a unique and memorable experience, you are also contributing to the preservation of railroad history.
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Be the first to know our 2026 Christmas Tea Room.
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