Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?

Yes, tickets are limited and should be booked early to secure your spot for the holiday event.

Is the event suitable for children?

Absolutely, the event is family-friendly, with festive decorations and train rides that children love.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated in the menu?

Special requests can often be arranged if specified at the time of booking, so notify the organizers beforehand.

What is the dress code?

Festive or warm casual attire is recommended, especially if you plan to be outside.

Pets are generally not permitted inside the event spaces, but check with the museum for specific policies.

Is parking available onsite?

Yes, ample parking is available at the Grand Junction Depot for visitors attending the event.

Holiday High Tea at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Chattanooga with the festive Christmas Tea event hosted by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. Held at the historic Grand Junction Depot, this experience combines culinary delight with the charm of vintage railroads, making it a must-do for those seeking a cozy, yet memorable holiday outing. Guests are treated to a curated selection of seasonal teas, savory bites, and freshly baked scones, all served in a beautifully decorated setting that captures the spirit of the season. After tea, visitors can wander the meticulously adorned property, soaking in the festive ambiance, or opt for a holiday-themed train ride that whisks passengers through the decorated landscape, adding a cinematic touch to the celebration.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, a cornerstone of Chattanooga’s rich rail history, offers a unique way to mark the holidays—combining historic locomotives with seasonal cheer. The museum itself is a hub for train enthusiasts and families alike, providing a glimpse into the golden age of American rail travel. The Christmas Tea event stands out as a family-friendly, culturally immersive experience that supports local preservation efforts while offering a joyful break during the holiday season.

Perfect for those looking for a relaxed, yet engaging holiday activity, this experience blends history, gastronomy, and scenic rides into one seamless adventure. Whether you’re an avid train fan or simply seeking a distinctive way to celebrate the season, this event delivers warmth, tradition, and a dash of nostalgic wonder that makes Chattanooga stand out during the holidays.

Join other visitors in creating sweet holiday memories on this charming and unique adventure that highlights the best of Chattanooga’s heritage and hospitality during the most wonderful time of the year.

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.