MINIATURE RAILS, MASSIVE FUN: JOIN THE APRIL TVMRI OPEN HOUSE!
All Aboard for an Unforgettable Family Day!
Step into a world where railroads come to life in miniature detail! On Saturday, April 19, 2025, the Tennessee Valley Model Railroaders Inc. (TVMRi) invites you to their April Open House—a free, family-friendly event where passion for trains and precision modeling collide.
From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a vast HO scale layout that recreates a slice of American railroading with stunning accuracy and imagination. Whether you’re a long-time railfan or just curious about the hobby, this is a unique experience you don’t want to miss.
📍 Location: TVMRi Layout Room, 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
💵 Admission: FREE
Explore the Layout: A World in Miniature
The centerpiece of the open house is the massive 42×40-foot HO scale layout, inspired by the Rathole 2nd Division of the Cincinnati, New Orleans, and Texas Pacific Railway—an important segment of Southern rail history.
Event Features:
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1,100 feet of digitally controlled track (that’s 18 scale miles!)
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DCC operations that mimic real-world train control systems
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Interactive scavenger hunt designed for all ages
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Meet-and-greet with model railroading enthusiasts and volunteers
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Photo opportunities galore—capture the intricate bridges, buildings, and locomotives
This immersive experience is more than just trains—it’s a hands-on journey through craftsmanship, creativity, and storytelling.
A Nod to Railroad History
While model trains are a modern hobby, they often preserve and reflect the essence of real-world railway heritage. The Rathole Division was known for its challenging terrain, tight curves, and complex tunnel systems. Its portrayal on the layout isn’t just imaginative—it’s educational, echoing the feats of engineering that once helped move goods and people across the Southern states.
TVMRi helps keep that spirit alive, using the language of scale models to honor the innovations and infrastructure that shaped the Southeast’s rail legacy.
Fun for the Whole Family
This event is designed with everyone in mind:
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Parents can explore the layout alongside their children and talk with knowledgeable volunteers.
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Kids can engage in a scavenger hunt that encourages observation and discovery.
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Grandparents can share stories of trains past with younger generations.
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Teens and hobbyists may even be inspired to start building their own layouts!
No need to purchase a ticket—just bring your curiosity and get ready to experience something truly unique in Chattanooga.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to reserve a spot or register in advance?
- Nope! Admission is completely free and walk-ins are welcome throughout the open house hours.
- Is the layout accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
- Yes, the layout room is accessible and families with strollers or mobility needs can comfortably explore the event.
- Will there be staff or volunteers available to answer questions?
- Absolutely! Members of TVMRi will be on-site to talk about the layout, their modeling techniques, and the real railroads that inspired the display.
Learn More
Why This Event Matters
The Open House is more than a fun afternoon—it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of learning. It’s a gateway into the model railroading world and a tribute to the railroaders of both the real and miniature kind. Events like this spark inspiration, create shared memories, and carry forward a love of trains for generations to come.
So whether you come to admire the layout or simply to spend quality time with family, the TVMRi April Open House promises an experience filled with discovery, detail, and plenty of “Wow!” moments.