Quick Details
Adult
All Ages • Priced per Seat
$ 24
Child
All Ages • Priced per Seat
$ 15
Holiday Christmas Lights Train
Step into a world of holiday cheer with the Holiday Christmas Lights Train Ride! Beginning right after Christmas Day, this festive journey immerses you in the season’s spirit with holiday music, beautiful light displays, and special activities. It’s the perfect way to wind down from the Christmas rush and enjoy a simpler time.
As the train rolls along, you’ll be surrounded by a variety of twinkling holiday lights—from sparkling snowflakes to towering Christmas trees—that transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. This 65-minute experience takes you on a 6-mile round trip, crossing four historic bridges, passing through a pre-Civil War, horseshoe-shaped tunnel, and ending with a historic turntable demonstration, with a keepsake boarding pass.
This holiday lights train offers an immersive holiday experience for families and friends alike, evoking cherished moments from the past. Bring your loved ones along and create a new holiday tradition filled with festive lights, holiday spirit, and timeless memories!
Join us this holiday season!
Please note, trips scheduled after Christmas will not include a visit from Santa or refreshments.
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Enjoy the Holiday Lights by Train
Overview
Join us for some after-Christmas cheer aboard the Holiday Lights Train. This ride offers a rare after-sundown experience featuring all our festive holiday lights. Be sure to grab a tasty, freshly baked snack from our Depot Deli to enjoy on your ride.
Trip Details
Your 60-minute experience on the Holiday Lights Train includes:
- A 6-mile roundtrip ride
- View of holiday lights at our depot and the North Pole
- Refreshments and storytelling on board
Highlights
- View of Holiday Lights: Enjoy the beautifully lit displays at our depot and the enchanting North Pole.
- Festive Atmosphere: The ride includes storytelling and festive music to enhance your holiday experience.
- Delicious Snacks: Grab a tasty, freshly baked snack from our Depot Deli to enjoy during the ride.
Additional Information
- Duration: 60 Minutes
- What to Expect: A delightful holiday experience filled with lights, storytelling, and festive cheer.
What’s Included
- Holiday Lights
- Festive Atmosphere
What’s Not Included
- Snacks
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Check-in Details
- Arrival Time: Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to allow for check-in and boarding. Late arrivals may not be able to join the ride.
- Location: Check in at the main depot entrance, where a member of our team will assist you with tickets and boarding instructions.
- ID and Tickets: Bring a valid photo ID and your ticket confirmation for a smooth check-in process.
What to Bring
- Warm Clothing: As this is an outdoor event, be sure to dress warmly. Layered clothing is recommended to stay comfortable during the turntable demostration.
- Camera or Smartphone: Capture the magical holiday lights and memories along the journey.
- Cash or Credit Card: Our Depot Deli offers snacks and drinks for purchase.
- Personal Comfort Items: Consider bringing a small blanket or extra sweater for added warmth, especially for younger children.
Special Requirements
- Age Requirement: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Service Animals: Service animals are permitted on board; however, please notify us beforehand so we can make appropriate accommodations.
Restrictions
- Weather Considerations: This ride operates in light rain or snow. In the event of severe weather, the ride may be rescheduled or canceled for safety.
Extras
•Hot Beverages: Warm beverages, such as hot cocoa and coffee, are available from the Depot Deli.
Disclaimers
- Weather and Schedule Adjustments: Departure times and schedules may vary due to weather conditions. We will notify passengers of any delays or cancellations via email or phone.
- Food and Drink Limitations: Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board, except for special dietary needs. Refreshments are available for purchase at the Depot Deli.
- Liability Disclaimer: While we strive to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is not liable for any personal belongings lost during the ride. Please keep your items secure.
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Does the train run if it is raining?
- Tennessee Valley Railroad trains operate rain or shine. The coaches are fully covered, enclosed from the elements, and have heat if needed.
Are there restroom facilities on the train?
- Restroom facilities are available at our depots for Holiday Lights Train passengers.
What our make dinner options for this trip?
- Dinner is NOT included on our Holiday Lights train ride, but our on-site deli serves a variety of delicious seasonal choices. Please keep in mind the Depot Deli closes at 7:15 p.m. Our East Chattanooga depot will be open, during your ride, where you can enjoy hot cocoa, coffee, bottled beverages, and an assortment of desserts. If you’re scheduled for the 9 p.m. departure, we suggest having dinner in the deli before your ride.
If we are running late, will you hold the train for us?
- Unfortunately, as much as we try to accommodate all our visitors, we generally can’t delay a train full of passengers. Please arrive EARLY to avoid disappointment. Note that Chattanooga is in the Eastern Time Zone and traffic can be a concern coming into Chattanooga Area.
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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.