Family Holiday Train Rides with Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Delano
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and physical abilities
Overview
Step into the holiday spirit with a scenic train ride through Tennessee’s stunning Hiwassee River Gorge, complete with festive treats and Santa visits. Perfect for families, this vintage train adventure offers scenic mountain views and seasonal cheer. Keep reading to discover more about this memorable winter experience.
Hiwassee Holiday
1 Hour & 15 Minutes • December Only! • Departs from Delano, TN
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of the holidays on Santa’s Hiwassee Holiday Train! This enchanting ride through the stunning Hiwassee River Gorge features festive treats, a visit from Santa, and the chance to write a letter to him. Guests receive keepsakes, making this a memorable adventure for all ages.
Celebrate the Holidays with a Hiwassee Train Ride!
Overview
Santa’s Hiwassee Holiday Train is a round-trip, one-hour and 15-minute ride along the beautiful Hiwassee River Gorge. Enjoy writing a letter to Santa, a gingerbread cookie, chocolate milk, and a special visit from Santa! Every passenger will receive a keepsake boarding pass and a holiday bell.
Quick Details
- Duration: 1 Hour 15 Minutes
- Departure Location: 9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN
Seating Options
Mistletoe Class
- Seating: Coach seating suitable for all ages (ticket required for ages 2 and up).
- Package Includes: -- Boarding Pass -- Letter to Santa -- Keepsake Bell -- Chocolate Milk and Little Debbie Gingerbread Cookie
- Capacity: 150 coach seats
Holly Class
- Seating: First-class premium seating for all ages (ticket required for ages 2 and up).
- Package Includes: -- Boarding Pass -- Letter to Santa -- Keepsake Bell -- Chocolate Milk and Little Debbie Gingerbread Cookie -- Special Keepsake Ornament (one per family)
- Capacity:
- 12 in Observation
- 20 in 9410 Dome
- 18 in Dome (Algonquin)
Highlights
- Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy the scenic views of the Hiwassee River Gorge.
- Holiday Fun: Write a letter to Santa, enjoy festive treats, and have a special visit from Santa himself.
- Keepsakes: Receive a boarding pass, holiday bell, and other special keepsakes depending on your seating class.
Additional Information
- Reservations: Required
- Dress Code: Casual and festive attire recommended
Book Your Experience
Join us for a festive holiday train ride along the Hiwassee River Gorge. Book your tickets today for a memorable holiday experience with Santa!
Adventure Tips
Dress warmly and in layers
Temperatures can be chilly on the open-air train, so layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the ride.
Arrive early for photo opportunities
Arriving ahead of departure allows you to capture scenic shots of the vintage train and surrounding landscape.
Bring a cozy blanket or seat cover
While the train is heated inside, a blanket can make waiting times or outdoor moments even more comfortable.
Book tickets in advance
Filling up quickly during the holiday season, early booking ensures you secure your spot on this popular train ride.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Osprey
- White-tailed deer
History
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum has operated vintage trains since the 1960s, preserving a vital part of rail history in Tennessee.
Conservation
The museum emphasizes sustainability by maintaining historic equipment and supporting local environmental preservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chattanooga
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm clothing and layers
Keeping warm ensures comfort during outdoor waiting areas and open-sided train cars.
winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and holiday moments along the route.
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for navigating the station, ticket booths, and outdoor areas.
Blanket or seat cover
A personal blanket can add extra warmth during chilly outdoor waiting or outdoor viewing spots.
winter specific