Quick Details
Celebrate the magic of the season aboard the North Pole Limited, Chattanooga’s most beloved Christmas train ride! Enjoy festive lights, holiday treats, and a special visit from Santa as you travel through the winter night. Perfect for families, friends, and anyone ready to make lasting Christmas memories.
Traditional
Ages 1+ • Priced per person
$ 42
Santa's Private Car
Ages 1+ • Priced per person
$ 65
Infant
Must be under 1 years old. Must sit in a lap. Does not include hot chocolate, cookie, or bell.
Free
Visit the North Pole!
As our most popular annual event, North Pole Limited train rides have been a family tradition since 1999 at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. During the magical holiday season, trains take riders on an imaginary journey to the North Pole. Along the way, you’ll be treated to refreshments and storytelling while you enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. As the North Pole Limited train gently rolls down the rails, a number of lighted displays can be seen outside. When you arrive at the North Pole, Santa will come on board for a special visit with all the passengers.
2025 North Pole Limited Sponsored By:
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Trip Overview
All aboard for a magical holiday journey to the North Pole!
Enjoy steaming hot chocolate, freshly baked cookies, and heartwarming storytelling as your train glides through sparkling Christmas lights.
When you reach the North Pole, Santa Claus will hop aboard to greet every passenger — making memories that children and adults will cherish for years to come.
What’s Included
- Hot chocolate
- Freshly baked chocolate chip cookie
- Keepsake boarding pass
- Family ornament (one per family)
- Jingle bell gift for each child
Santa’s Private Car Guests Also Receive:
- Souvenir hot chocolate mug
- Complimentary copy of The North Pole Limited storybook (one per family)
- Exclusive boarding area with private waiting space
- Extra time with Santa and special photo opportunities
What’s Not Included
Personal items, additional food, or drinks not listed above.
Itinerary
- Depart from Grand Junction Depot
- Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and Christmas storytelling
- See festive light displays along the route
- Meet Santa Claus as he boards the train at the North Pole
- Return to Grand Junction Depot
Highlights
- Magical Journey: Ride through dazzling light displays on your way to the North Pole.
- Santa’s Visit: Santa personally greets passengers in every car.
- Delicious Treats: Sip rich hot chocolate and enjoy cookies baked fresh at TVRM.
- Festive Fun: Hear Christmas stories and join in cheerful carol sing-alongs.
- Memorable Keepsakes: Take home a family ornament and commemorative boarding pass.
Seating Options
Traditional Seating
- Hot chocolate and a freshly baked cookie
- Visit from Santa at the North Pole
- Storytelling and Christmas sing-alongs
- Keepsake ornament (one per family)
- Special gift for each child from Santa
Santa’s Private Car
- Hot chocolate and a freshly baked cookie
- Personal visit from Santa at the “North Pole”
- Festive storytelling and sing-alongs
- Keepsake ornament per family
- Plus: Exclusive boarding area, extra time with Santa, and a complimentary The North Pole Limited storybook (one per family)
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Know Before You Go
Check-In Information
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
The train departs promptly, and late arrivals may not be accommodated once boarding has closed.What to Bring
- Warm, comfortable clothing suitable for winter weather
- A camera to capture your magical moments with Santa
Special Requirements
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Guests with limited mobility or pregnant passengers should note that movement between cars may be limited due to the vintage nature of our equipment.
Extras
- Santa’s Private Car ticket holders receive a souvenir hot chocolate cup and extended visit time with Santa.
- Additional holiday merchandise and souvenirs are available for purchase at the Grand Junction Depot gift shop.
Important Notes
Train schedules, car types, or other operational details may change without prior notice due to weather or mechanical conditions.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum strives to ensure each guest enjoys a magical and memorable experience.Included With Your Ticket
Traditional Ticket Holders Receive:
- Homemade chocolate chip cookie
- Hot chocolate
- Keepsake boarding pass
- Family ornament
- Jingle bell gift
Santa’s Private Car Ticket Holders Receive:
- Extended visit with Santa
- Homemade chocolate chip cookie
- Hot chocolate served in a souvenir cup
- Keepsake boarding pass
- Family ornament
- Jingle bell gift
- Complimentary copy of The North Pole Limited storybook (one per family)
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How long is the North Pole Limited ride?
The experience lasts about 75 minutes, including storytelling, cookies, cocoa, and a visit from Santa. -
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding. Trains depart promptly. -
Where do I board the train?
All departures leave from Grand Junction Station at 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN. -
Are seats assigned?
Yes. Seating is assigned to ensure families are seated together. -
What age is best for this ride?
The ride is ideal for ages 2–10, but magical for all ages. -
Can infants ride without a ticket?
Children under one may ride as lap infants unless a seat is required. -
Does the train operate in rain or snow?
Yes—trains run rain or shine. Coaches are fully enclosed and heated. -
Is this a moving train?
Yes. The train travels along the historic Chattanooga route to the “North Pole.” -
Will I receive actual tickets?
No printed tickets needed. Check in by name and receive your Keepsake Boarding Pass at the depot. -
Is the train heated or air-conditioned?
All railcars are climate-controlled and heated for winter comfort. -
Is the train accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Accessibility is limited due to historic railcars. Guests who can board with assistance are welcome. Email [email protected] for accommodations. -
Can I bring food or drinks on board?
Small snacks and drinks are permitted; alcohol is not allowed on TVRM property or trains. -
If we are running late, will the train wait?
Trains cannot be delayed once boarding is complete. Please arrive early. -
Can I reserve tickets in advance?
Yes—online advance purchase is strongly recommended, as rides often sell out early. -
How do I contact TVRM if I still have questions?
Email [email protected] or call (423) 894-8028.
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The North Pole Limited may be our most magical tradition, but TVRM offers other memorable train rides and experiences all year long. Discover more holiday fun and railroad trips below:
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North Pole Limited for next season
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About Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum:
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a railway museum located in Chattanooga and Delano, Tennessee. It was established in 1961 to preserve and operate historic railway equipment for the education and enjoyment of future generations. The museum features a variety of vintage trains and railcars, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars. Visitors can experience the history of rail travel through excursions, exhibits, and hands-on activities. The museum operates on a historic rail line, offering scenic rides through the Hiwassee Loop and providing a unique perspective on the region’s history and culture. With its rich heritage, educational programs, and engaging events, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
As a non-profit organization, it takes a lot of resources to restore and maintain our vintage trains and equipment. In fact, it can cost up to $1.5 million to completely rebuild a steam engine, which must be done every 15 years or sooner. Your support helps us to continue to share this important piece of history with the community. So not only are you enjoying a unique and memorable experience, you are also contributing to the preservation of railroad history.