Savor elegant tea delicacies, then ride a historic train through Chattanooga’s rail heritage.
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2.5 hrs
High-tea service, Train ride
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.
Guests with dietary restrictions must inform the operator before purchasing tickets
All sales are final and no refunds are issued.
A Tea in the Depot Experience includes a full traditional high tea with savory and sweet selections, freshly baked scones, and premium teas, followed by a 65-minute ride on the Missionary Ridge Local train.
The menu includes scones, quiche, chicken salad, tomato bisque with grilled cheese bites, and a variety of sweet treats, served with jams and paired with a selection of teas such as Masala Chai, Earl Grey Lavender, and Hibiscus Berry.
During the Missionary Ridge Local ride, you will cross four bridges, pass through a pre-Civil War tunnel, tour the restoration shop, and watch a live turntable demonstration.
Please go to Grand Junction Depot at 4119 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN. Wait downstairs until called, then check in with the ticket office to begin your high tea experience.
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.
We had such a wonderful time at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum! My six-year-old daughter and I both loved the train ride. It was fun, informative, and full of interesting history. The experience was engaging from start to finish, and very affordable for everything you get. The highlight for my daughter was the Easter village after the ride. She had the best time with all the activities, and it made the whole day feel extra special. Highly recommend for families. Such a memorable experience!
Britta Mills
April 1, 2026
We had such a wonderful time at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum! My six-year-old daughter and I both loved the train ride. It was fun, informative, and full of interesting history. The experience was engaging from start to finish, and very affordable for everything you get. The highlight for my daughter was the Easter village after the ride. She had the best time with all the activities, and it made the whole day feel extra special. Highly recommend for families. Such a memorable experience!
Britta Mills
April 1, 2026