Is this train ride suitable for children?

Yes, the Chickamauga Turn is family-friendly and enjoyed by children of all ages.

Are there wheelchairs accessible options?

The train stations have accessible options, but recommend contacting ahead for specific accommodations.

What should I bring for the trip?

Bring comfortable outdoor clothing, personal water, and any preferred snacks or entertainment.

Pets are generally not permitted on the train; please check with the museum beforehand.

How early should I arrive?

Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to allow time for boarding and settling in.

Can I purchase food onboard?

Yes, the train offers a selection of meals and snacks as part of the experience.

Chattanooga Civil War Train Ride with Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

In the scenic heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee, a train ride with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a compelling journey into history and nature. The six-hour Chickamauga Turn excursion whisks passengers from downtown Chattanooga through rolling farmland and wooded landscapes, culminating in the historic town of Chickamauga, Georgia. This trip isn’t just about riding the rails—it’s a chance to step back in time and see the American South from a vantage point few get to experience. As the train chugs along, travelers are treated to sweeping views of the Tennessee River and vibrant landscapes that change with each season. The ride pauses for a 90-minute visit to landmarks like Crawfish Springs—the site that inspired city founders—and the Gordon-Lee Mansion, a preserved Civil War estate offering glimpses into the region’s turbulent past. The on-board dining experience boasts local flavors, making it a true taste of Southern hospitality. What makes Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum stand out is its dedication to authentic historical preservation coupled with accessible outdoor recreation. Their rail journeys spotlight vintage locomotives and storytelling that bring history alive, blending outdoor adventure with educational insight. It’s an experience that appeals to rail enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique way to connect with the land and its stories. Perfect for families, history lovers, or anyone wanting to see a different side of Tennessee and Georgia, this trip creates lasting memories of an era when trains were America’s lifelines. The ride is easy to moderate, making it accessible, but it’s packed with immersive moments that leave a lasting impression of the region’s historical significance. Whether you’re local or visiting Chattanooga, the Chickamauga Turn provides a distinctive outdoor adventure that combines scenic beauty with cultural depth, all aboard a vintage train that’s as engaging as it is enchanting.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

6 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking required

Wildlife

Bald eagles
Great blue herons

History

The Chattanooga area played a pivotal role during the Civil War, with the Chickamauga battle being one of the most significant confrontations in the Western Theater.

Conservation

The museum and local agencies promote sustainable tourism by maintaining historic sites and conserving local wildlife habitats along the route.

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.

Base locationChattanooga, Tennessee

Tours offered25+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace