Is advance booking required?

Yes, reservations are recommended as tickets for the Christmas Daylight Express tend to sell out quickly.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Pets are generally not permitted on the train ride, but can enjoy the Christmas Village with their owners.

What should I do if it rains?

The event operates rain or shine; check weather forecasts and dress appropriately, but the festivities continue regardless.

Can I bring food or drinks?

Concession stands are available in the village, and outside food is not typically allowed on the train.

How long is the train ride?

The ride lasts approximately one hour, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and Santa’s visit.

Is the event suitable for young children?

Absolutely—this event is designed to be family-friendly and engaging for children of all ages.

Family Holiday Train Adventure at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga | Train | Events

In Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a one-of-a-kind holiday activity with their Christmas Daylight Express. This lively train ride transports families into a festive winter scene, where the thrill of a vintage train journey merges with joyful holiday traditions. The hour-long trip features a cheerful visit from Santa Claus himself, who hands out candy canes and shares smiles with kids and grown-ups alike, making it a perfect seasonal outing.

Beyond the train, visitors gain access to the Christmas Village—a bustling hub of seasonal games, arts and crafts, and holiday cheer. It’s a hands-on environment where baking gingerbread, making ornaments, and partaking in festive contests transforms a simple day into a cherished memory. The vintage railcars, restored to their early 20th-century splendor, provide a nostalgic touch that layers history into every mile.

Located in Chattanooga, a city known for its riverfront and mountain vistas, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum stands out as a treasure for history buffs and families seeking meaningful holiday traditions. Founded in 1961, the museum preserves the railroad heritage of the region, offering authentic train rides and restoration projects that keep these historic locomotives alive.

The Christmas Daylight Express isn’t just a ride; it’s a seasonal event that weaves together history, community, and holiday magic. Whether you're a train enthusiast, a family looking for festive fun, or someone eager to experience Chattanooga’s rich transportation history, this event offers a warm way to connect with the season.

Visit the museum to carve out a holiday moment filled with laughter, tradition, and unforgettable scenery. It’s a special way to step back in time while celebrating the joy of the holidays on the rails.

About Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum preserves and operates historic passenger trains and locomotives in East Tennessee, offering a broad range of scenic excursions, specialty dinner trains, seasonal holiday rides, and educational exhibits. The museum operates restored steam and diesel locomotives, vintage passenger coaches, and heritage dining cars to recreate authentic rail travel experiences for families, history buffs, photographers, and rail enthusiasts. Signature trips include long-distance scenic runs such as the Summerville Steam Special and Hiwassee Gorge Limited, daily local rides like the Missionary Ridge Local and Evening Ridge Runner, and memorable special events such as the Holiday Lights Train, North Pole Limited, Valentine’s Dinner Train, and Rails, Wizards & Spells. Dining options feature multi-course gourmet menus served aboard restored dining cars for events like Dinner on the Diner, Christmas Dinner Train, and New Year’s Eve Dinner Train. The museum also hosts curated programs — night photo sessions, tea room gatherings, exhibit admission for permanent galleries, and themed family experiences — all framed by knowledgeable staff and volunteer interpreters. Routes traverse the Hiwassee River Gorge, historic tunnels, and scenic bridges, with guided narration and scheduled layovers for exploration. As a preservation-focused institution, the museum emphasizes safety, authentic restoration practices, and community engagement, supporting regional heritage through volunteer programs and educational outreach. Visitors can book seasonal excursions, private charters, and museum admission online or at the Grand Junction Depot. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum blends living history, scenic rail travel, and culinary events to create outings that celebrate the legacy of railroads in Tennessee Valley.