Quick Details

January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024 EST
Ages: All Ages
Duration: 65 minutes
Food: Snacks and drinks are available at the deli prior to the trip
Departure Location: Chattanooga (4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN)

Experience the History of Chattanooga on the Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride

Adult

Ages 13+

$ 24

Child

Ages 2 - 12

$ 15

Infant

Under 2

Free

Experience the History Tour of Missionary Ridge Local

Embark on a captivating 65-minute journey aboard the Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride, starting from Grand Junction Station. Traverse through the pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel, cross four bridges, and enjoy a historic turntable demonstration. The ride includes a 25-minute layover at East Chattanooga Depot, where you’ll witness a brief tour of the TVRM restoration shop. With a knowledgeable tour guide providing historical insights throughout the 6-mile round trip, this adventure offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Come ride the train!

Embark on a captivating journey through time aboard the Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride. Starting at Grand Junction Station, this 65-minute adventure covers six miles round trip, offering passengers a rich historical experience.

Historical Aspects:

Travel through the historic pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel, completed in 1858. This horseshoe-shaped tunnel is a marvel of 19th-century engineering, providing a tangible connection to the past.

Key Landmarks:
- Four Historic Bridges: Cross the Chickamauga Creek bridge and three other notable bridges.
- Missionary Ridge Tunnel: Experience this significant Civil War-era structure, a testament to 19th-century engineering.
Unique Experiences:
- Turntable Demonstration: At the East Chattanooga Depot, observe the fascinating process of turning the locomotive on a historic turntable, a rare and engaging spectacle.
- Restoration Shop Tour: Enjoy a brief tour of the TVRM restoration shop, where vintage trains are meticulously restored. Learn about the intricate restoration process and the dedication required to preserve these historic machines.
- Guided Tour: Throughout the trip, a knowledgeable tour guide will provide engaging commentary on local history and railroad operations, enriching your understanding of the region’s past and its railroads.
This journey offers historical insights and an immersive experience that transports you back to the golden age of rail travel. Perfect for history buffs, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a unique and educational adventure.
The term “Local” refers to shorter trains that were once essential to small towns, providing frequent stops for mail delivery, shipping local produce, and even transporting children to school.

Imagine standing on the platform as the train arrives, feeling the ground rumble beneath your feet. The conductor calls out “Board!” and excitement builds as passengers take their seats, anticipating a relaxing trip. This was a common scene 100 years ago and remains so today on the Missionary Ridge Local.

Trips start at Grand Junction Depot, traveling along one of the original railroad lines into Chattanooga, crossing bridges, and passing through the historic Missionary Ridge Tunnel before arriving at East Chattanooga. Here, passengers can watch the locomotive being rotated on a turntable and tour the railroad restoration shop before returning to Grand Junction. The round trip lasts just under an hour, making it an ideal introductory train ride for kids.

The wheel shop at East Chattanooga is unique, housing a 90” diameter wheel lathe, a journal lathe, and a quartering machine, all under one roof. Approximately two dozen steam locomotives, including TVRM 610, SOU 630, SOU 4501, WMSR 1309, ARR 557, MIlW 261, UP 844, BC&G 4, GW 75, CP 2816, NCSL 576, and USSC 148 have had their wheels repaired here. This facility is the only one of its kind in North America, making it a significant part of railroad preservation.
The Ultimate Train Ride Experience

Join our engineer in the cab of the locomotive for a thrilling train ride experience!

Steam Locomotive:
- Cost: $55 for a one-way ride, $80 for a round trip
- Age Requirements: Ages 12-14 must be accompanied by an adult, 15 and up can ride unaccompanied
- Rider Limit: Two riders per trip
Diesel Locomotive:
- Cost: $35 for a one-way ride, $50 for a round trip
- Age Requirements: Ages 10-14 must be accompanied by an adult, 15 and up can ride unaccompanied
- Rider Limit: Two riders per trip
Important Information:
- Dress Code: Long pants without rips or holes and closed-toed shoes are required.
- Safety Gear: Protective eyewear and earplugs will be provided at check-in.
- Availability: All cab ride tickets are first-come, first-served. Riders not adhering to the dress code will not be permitted to ride in the cab.
Experience the thrill of riding in the cab of a locomotive and see the inner workings of these magnificent machines up close!
Starting in Chattanooga, our trips are based out of the 4119 Cromwell Road location. This includes any North Georgia routes going to Chickamauga or Summerville!
Accessibility Options:
- Wheelchair Accessibility: While the Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride strives to accommodate all guests, please note that historic rail cars and stations, such as the Summerville station, were built before modern accessibility standards. These passenger cars were not designed to safely accommodate wheelchairs. However, passengers who can board the train themselves and occupy a standard seat are welcomed and encouraged to ride.
- Assistance: Staff members are available to assist with boarding, exiting, and navigating depot facilities. If your party requires the use of our ramps, please inform our ticket agent when checking in.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are available at both depots for passenger comfort.
Safety Protocols:
- Emergency Procedures: Clear instructions and trained staff are available to handle any emergencies that may arise during the trip.
- Passenger Safety: Safety briefings are provided, and all safety equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure a secure journey for all passengers.
These measures ensure that all guests have a safe and comfortable experience aboard the Missionary Ridge Local Train Ride.
Discounts for Seniors, AAA Members, Military Personnel, and First Responders

We offer special discounts for seniors, AAA members, military personnel, and first responders for the Missionary Ridge Local Trip. To redeem these discounts, you can purchase tickets over the phone by calling (423) 894-8028 or in person at our Grand Junction Depot ticket office at 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Birthday Special

Free Missionary Ridge Local Ride or Exhibit Visit

Celebrate your birthday with us and enjoy a complimentary ride on the Missionary Ridge Local or a free visit to our exhibit building.

How to Redeem:

This offer is only available at our ticket office or exhibit building and cannot be redeemed online or through any other channels. Just show your ID to get your birthday discount.

Terms and Conditions:
- Offer valid on your birthday only.
- Must present a valid ID to redeem the offer.
- Complimentary Missionary Ridge Local ride or free visit to the exhibit building.
- This offer can only be redeemed in person at our ticket office or exhibit building.
Acceptable Forms of ID for Kids:
- Birth Certificate
- School ID with the birthdate printed on the card
- Passport
- Any government-issued ID with the child’s name and birthdate
TVRM reserves the right to substitute equipment or motive power and to alter published fares, times of operation, and destination as mechanical or operating conditions require, without notice.
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CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Hubs and I did the Missionary Ridge Train ride during a quick stop in Chattanooga for the holidays. Emily N.

Hubs and I did the Missionary Ridge Train ride during a quick stop in Chattanooga for the holidays. The train was more for him than me, but we both had a phenomenal time! Not only are all the employees helpful and kind, they experience is incredibly informative and interesting. I suggest if there are only 2 people in your party to ride in the cab of the train. We rode with the engineer who drives and it took our experience to the next level. Joe the engineer told us a plethora of extra info about the trim, TVRM, and you get to ride in the lead train car while it turns around at the turn around spot. So cool! Also, check out the exhibit they have in the depot area. Loads of info and cool things to check out!

– Google Review

A great stop for train enthusiasts. Susan M

A great stop for train enthusiasts. Nicely restored locomotives and passenger cars. The missionary ridge train ride is pleasant and informative.

– Google Review

We took the Missionary Risge train ride today and loved it. Pat O

We took the Missionary Risge train ride today and loved it. The entire way to East Ridge the conductor gives a narrated tour of the history of the trains we are on as well as the area. This is followed by a narrated demonstration of the turn table which rotates the train for the ride back. It was fun, informative, and scenic. Will be recommending to friends and family when they visit.

– Google Review

Tag 80 engine is a train traveling down the train tracks in Chattanooga. This image is perfect for those who are interested in the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, as it captures the local mission Ridge Train in all of its glory.
Tennessee's Fall Train Journeys: Experience Autumn Anew!
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum - Chattanooga & Hiwassee Train Rides
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga is a great place to visit, especially if you're interested in trains. This missionary ridge local train is coming into the station, and it's a beautiful sight.
Ride the Missionary Ridge: Historical Train Adventure Awaits
Explore the rich history of Missionary Ridge on our 65-minute local tour.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a great place to visit if you're interested in trains. This museum has a large collection of locomotives and rail cars, as well as other railroad-related items. One of the highlights of a visit to the museum is a ride on the Missionary Ridge Local, a vintage train that runs through the Tennessee Valley.
Crowd touring a train maintenance shop
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a great place to visit if you're in the Chattanooga area. They have a number of different locomotives and rail cars on display, as well as a working turntable. My favorite part of the museum is the Missionary Ridge Local Southern 630 crossing over one of our four bridges.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a great place to learn about the history of railroads in Chattanooga. The Missionary Ridge Local is a train that travels down the tracks near a forest, and it's a great way to experience the beauty of nature while learning about railroad history.