Are tickets available for walk-ins or only online reservations?

Tickets can be purchased in advance, but walk-ins may be available if space permits—it's best to reserve early during busy holiday times.

Is the ride suitable for young children?

Yes, the Holiday Lights Train is family-friendly and enjoyable for kids of all ages, with festive storytelling and seasonal music.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Pets are generally not permitted onboard to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers; check with the museum for special accommodations.

What should I bring for the cold weather?

Layered clothing, hats, gloves, and blankets will help keep you warm during the outdoor waiting and riding experience.

Can I bring food or beverages onboard?

Snacks from the Depot Deli are available for purchase, but outside food and drinks are not allowed onboard.

Is there accessible seating for individuals with mobility challenges?

The museum offers accessible options; contact ahead to discuss specific needs and seating arrangements.

Holiday Lights Train at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga

In the heart of Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a one-of-a-kind winter treat that blends historic charm with festive cheer—the Holiday Lights Train. This 60-minute nighttime journey transforms the vintage railcars into a rolling spectacle of holiday illumination, giving visitors a chance to experience the magic of the season aboard a historic locomotive. As the train chugs through city neighborhoods and past the depot, illuminated displays dazzle onlookers, casting a warm glow over families and friends alike. Festive storytelling and seasonal music add to the jovial atmosphere, immersing riders in the holiday spirit. The Depot Deli provides freshly baked snacks, making the experience both delightful and cozy. This activity offers a wonderful alternative to traditional holiday outings, combining nostalgia, community, and seasonal wonder in one accessible package. Chattanooga’s rich rail history, combined with the lively holiday displays, makes this train ride a standout for visitors of all ages seeking unforgettable winter moments. The vintage train cars and the surrounding North Pole-themed setting create a scene straight out of a holiday card, yet it's the heartfelt storytelling and local charm that make it truly special. Whether you’re traveling with young children eager to meet Santa or adults reminiscing about past holiday seasons, the Holiday Lights Train delivers an enchanting experience that celebrates both history and holiday magic. This event underscores the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum's role in preserving Chattanooga’s rich transportation heritage while offering a festive tribute to the season. It's a respiratory break in the hustle and bustle, where tradition and community come together beneath a canopy of lights – a perfect way to create lasting memories amid the winter months.

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.