Missionary Ridge Local Vintage Train Ride

Experience Chattanooga's historic rails, tunnel and turntable on a guided 65-minute short line journey.

4.8 stars• 17.4K reviews

From$25/ person

Duration

65 mins

Includes

Train ride, Turntable, Shop tour

Highlights

Step aboard a restored short line train for a 65-minute round-trip from Chattanooga to East Chattanooga. Cross four bridges, pass through a pre-Civil War tunnel and watch a vintage locomotive turntable in action.

This nostalgic journey blends scenery with hands-on history.

Ride six miles of original railroad track on a historic line
Cross four bridges including Chickamauga Creek
Pass through the 1858 Missionary Ridge Tunnel
Watch the locomotive rotate on a working turntable
Tour the restoration shop and see vintage railcars
Hear live commentary on local history and railroad life

What's Included

65-minute round-trip train ride
Turntable demonstration during East Chattanooga layover
Access to the locomotive restoration shop
Narrated commentary and free parking

FAQs

Where does the train depart?

Grand Junction Station at 4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga

How long is the ride?

It is a 65-minute round trip including the layover

Is it suitable for families?

Yes, the short duration and interactive elements engage guests of all ages

Can I bring snacks?

Small snacks and bottled drinks are allowed on board

Are pets allowed?

Only service animals are permitted

Things to know

Children under 12 must ride with an adult. Historic railcars are not wheelchair-accessible; guests must board independently.

Cancellation policy

All sales are final and non-refundable.

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!