High-Tea Experience and Missionary Ridge Train Ride

Savor elegant tea delicacies, then ride a historic train through Chattanooga’s rail heritage.

4.8 stars• 17.4K reviews

From$40/ person

Duration

2.5 hrs

Includes

High-tea service, Train ride

Highlights

Indulge in a refined high-tea service before boarding the Missionary Ridge Local for a leisurely historic ride. This combined experience marries elegant flavors with nostalgic rail travel.

Sample savory and sweet treats including fresh scones
Choose from specialty beverages like Mimosa or Irish Cream
Relax in the upstairs viewing room at Grand Junction Depot
Enjoy a 65-minute journey aboard vintage rail coaches
Capture memories of Chattanooga’s rail heritage

What's Included

High-tea delicacies
Two-pot tea selection
Missionary Ridge Local train ride

FAQs

Can we get up and walk around on the train?

Passengers may move around depending on operating conditions.

Is the train air-conditioned or heated?

Most coaches are climate-controlled; some window cars allow natural airflow.

Can we bring our pet on the train?

Service animals assisting individuals with disabilities are welcome.

Does the train run if it is raining?

All trains operate rain or shine.

Can I smoke on the train?

Smoking is prohibited on all trains and in all stations.

Guests with dietary restrictions must inform the operator before purchasing tickets.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final and no refunds are issued.

Review summary

4.8

Excellent

17.4K reviewsGoogle Maps

This place clearly knows how to deliver a memorable train experience. Visitors consistently rave about the friendly, knowledgeable staff who make every ride special, whether it's the shorter local excursions or the longer Hiwassee Loop journey. The historians on board get particular praise for their engaging storytelling about the region's rail history, and touches like the banjo entertainment add extra charm. Several groups mention the dining options as a real highlight, with one reviewer specifically calling out their server Jermain for making their ladies' trip feel warm and welcoming. The vintage passenger cars themselves are beautifully restored and meticulously maintained, which adds to the authentic experience. People appreciate that this is a charitable organization dedicated to preserving local railroad heritage. One practical tip that comes up: book your tickets online in advance because these excursions sell out fast, and don't be late since the trains run on schedule. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a group outing, this seems to be one of those Chattanooga attractions that genuinely appeals across ages and interests. The overwhelming enthusiasm from repeat visitors suggests it's worth making time for if you're in the area.

What people are saying

We had a wonderful experience at TN Valley Railroad! It was a dreary, rainy day and decided to go on the Missionary Ridge tour. It was perfect! We got there half an hour early, but the train left right on schedule. The guys working our train were kind, friendly, funny, and very knowledgeable about the railroad. We had a choice between an air conditioned car, or one with fresh (window) air. We chose the fresh air, windows down. Choose this, if the weather is nice! The rain cleared long enough for us to see the turntable demonstration and to walk over and see the other locomotives that were being repaired. It was all in all the best first train ride and tour we could have asked for. We will be returning in the coming months with our children. We hope to try the deli next time around because it looked fantastic! We had already eaten and didn’t know they had one in the station. The gift shop was great also! Lots to choose from, affordable and very friendly. The pictures definitely don’t do it justice!