Is the dinner experience suitable for children?

Yes, the train accommodates families, and children are welcome with appropriate supervision.

What is the dress code?

Smart casual is recommended, and warm clothing is advised for winter trips.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

Special meal requests can often be made at booking; check ahead for specific needs.

Is parking available on site?

Yes, ample parking is available near the station for guests attending the dinner train.

How early should I arrive?

Arriving 30 minutes before departure ensures smooth boarding and a relaxed start.

Can I bring my own beverages?

Given the gourmet meal service, outside beverages are not permitted onboard.

Christmas Dinner Train at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga

Operating amidst Chattanooga’s bustling transportation history, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a holiday experience unlike any other. The Christmas Dinner Train combines vintage rail travel with fine dining, creating a nostalgic journey through East Chattanooga’s historic streets. As you step into the restored dining car, the festive ambiance envelops you—ornate decorations, warm lighting, and the aroma of gourmet cuisine set the scene for a memorable evening. The train gently glides along tracks that have witnessed decades of local history, offering glimpses of the city’s industrial past while you indulge in a four-course meal prepared with care.

This experience stands out in the outdoor recreation scene by seamlessly blending culinary pleasure with classic rail travel, making it a perfect activity for those seeking a unique holiday tradition or a special occasion. The menu features exquisite entrees and delightful desserts, all served amid the charm of a vintage carriage—a rare pairing that provides both comfort and adventure. The route offers views of Chattanooga’s historic neighborhoods and riverfront, enriching the journey with a sense of place and time.

Ideal for couples, families, or groups celebrating the season, the Christmas Dinner Train transforms a simple train ride into a festive feast. Its accessibility and unique setting make it a popular choice for visitors wanting to experience Chattanooga’s rich transportation heritage with a flavorful twist, all during the holiday season.

Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a distinctive holiday outing, this event showcases Chattanooga’s lively history, culinary artistry, and the warmth of the season in one unforgettable package.

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.