Quick Details
The holiday season is a time of joy, magic, and making memories with loved ones. At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, we are thrilled to offer a brand-new holiday adventure: the Christmas Daylight Express! This one-hour, family-friendly experience is the perfect way to celebrate the season, combining the enchantment of a train ride with the excitement of meeting Santa Claus. Departing from Grand Junction station, this festive adventure is filled with fun activities and plenty of holiday cheer.
What to Expect:
The Christmas Daylight Express departs from the historic Grand Junction (4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN) station and takes passengers on a ride to our East Chattanooga Depot. As you journey along the rails, you’ll be warmly greeted by Santa Claus himself, who will hop on board to spread his holiday cheer. Every child will receive a candy cane treat and have the chance to write their wishes in a letter to Santa. Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to meet our friendly reindeer companion, adding an extra touch of holiday magic to the experience.
Exploring the Christmas Village:
After your train ride, the holiday fun continues at our festive Christmas Village. This charming holiday market is brimming with seasonal delights, from delicious treats to unique holiday gifts. Wander through the stalls, soak in the festive atmosphere, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why Choose the Christmas Daylight Express?
While the Christmas Daylight Express is not the same as North Pole Limited ride, it offers its own unique charm. This daytime adventure is perfect for families looking for a magical holiday experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you’re seeking a new holiday tradition or simply want to enjoy a fun outing with loved ones, this ride offers a festive and joyful experience.
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The Christmas Daylight Express is a joyful one-hour train ride departing from Grand Junction Station to East Chattanooga Depot. Along the way, passengers will be greeted by Santa Claus, enjoy a candy cane treat, write a letter to Santa, and meet a friendly reindeer companion. After the ride, explore the festive Christmas Village, offering holiday fun, crafts, and seasonal delights.
What’s included
- 1-hour train ride
- Visit from Santa Claus
- Candy cane for every child
- Access to Christmas Village
- Letter to Santa
What’s not included
- Additional food or drink purchases at the Christmas Village
- Souvenirs or gifts from Christmas Village vendors
Itinerary
- Board the Christmas Daylight Express at Grand Junction Station.
- Enjoy a 1-hour ride to East Chattanooga Depot, meeting Santa Claus and a friendly reindeer.
- Participate in festive activities such as candy cane treats and letter writing to Santa.
- Explore the Christmas Village post-ride.
Highlights
- Enchanting Train Ride: A festive journey filled with holiday cheer, perfect for the whole family.
- Meet Santa Claus: Get a special visit from Santa during the ride, adding magic to the experience.
- Christmas Village: After the ride, explore a charming holiday village filled with fun games, crafts, and seasonal delights.
- Holiday Keepsakes: Each child will receive a candy cane and the chance to write a letter to Santa.
- Family Fun: An ideal outing for families, offering joyful experiences for all ages.
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Check-in details
Check-in opens 30 minutes before departure. Please arrive early to ensure a smooth boarding process.
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing
- Camera for photos with Santa
- Warm jacket if weather is chilly
- Spending money for Christmas Village purchases
Special requirements
Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Restrictions
The experience is suitable for all ages, though participants with severe mobility impairments should confirm accessibility needs in advance.
Extras
- Optional souvenir packages available at the Christmas Village.
- Hot cocoa and snacks can be purchased at the village.
Disclaimers
Weather conditions may impact certain outdoor activities. The train ride will proceed rain or shine.
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- What can I expect on the Christmas Daylight Express?
- This one-hour ride offers a festive experience featuring a visit from Santa, a candy cane treat, a letter-writing activity for children, and a chance to meet our reindeer companion. It’s a delightful adventure for the whole family.
- How does the Christmas Daylight Express differ from the North Pole Limited?
- The Christmas Daylight Express is a charming daytime holiday train ride with its own unique appeal, while the North Pole Limited is an evening journey that transports passengers to the “North Pole.”
- How much are tickets, and where can I buy them?
- Tickets are priced at $30 per person for ages 1 and up. You can easily purchase them online to secure your spot on this joyful holiday adventure.
- Is the Christmas Daylight Express suitable for young children?
- Absolutely! This one-hour ride is designed to be family-friendly and enjoyable for all ages. The activities on board, including meeting Santa and writing a letter to him, are perfect for young children.
- What can I expect on the Christmas Daylight Express?
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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.