Holiday Christmas Lights Train
Passengers take a six-mile round trip aboard enclosed, heated vintage coaches through the pre–Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel and across four historic bridges. Seasonal holiday light displays illuminate the depots and select portions of the rail route. The trip also features a working turntable demonstration at East Chattanooga and includes a souvenir boarding pass for every rider.
What to Expect
An after-Christmas vintage train ride through Missionary Ridge Tunnel.
Event Details
Duration
The ride is approximately 60–65 minutes; the quick details also describe the duration as 1–2 hours.
Ages
All Ages
Neighborhood
East Chattanooga
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Food & Drink
Food and beverages are available for purchase at the depots, but refreshments are not served onboard; outside food and drinks are not permitted except for special dietary needs.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families seeking an easygoing holiday outing
Vibe
Relaxed and festive
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adult: $26 per seat; child: $17 per seat. Both ticket types are labeled All Ages. Every reserved seat requires a ticket. – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking is available on site.
- Accessibility: Historic railcars have limited accessibility; contact TVRM before booking to arrange boarding assistance or accommodations.
- Pets: Only service animals trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities are permitted. Pets and emotional-support animals are not allowed.
Tips & Advice
- Check in at Grand Junction Depot at least 20 minutes early, because trains leave on schedule and Chattanooga runs on Eastern Time.
- Dress warmly even though the coaches are heated, because boarding and the turntable demonstration at East Chattanooga are outdoors.
- Use the depot restrooms before you board, because restroom access on the train is limited during the roughly hour-long round trip.
- Get snacks and drinks at the Depot Deli before departure, because nothing is served onboard and outside food isn't allowed except for dietary needs.
- Have your ticket on your phone or printed, plus a valid photo ID, and remember that every reserved seat needs its own ticket.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santa on this ride?
No. Santa is only on the pre-Christmas trains. This ride runs after Christmas and is about the lights, the tunnel, the bridges and the turntable.
Can we get food and drinks?
Nothing is served onboard. The Depot Deli sells snacks and drinks before departure, and there may be concessions at East Chattanooga Depot. Outside food and drinks aren't allowed onboard unless you have special dietary needs.
Where do we check in?
Check in at Grand Junction Depot at least 20 minutes before departure. Trains leave on schedule and can't wait for late arrivals.
Does the train run in rain or snow?
It generally runs in light rain or snow, and the coaches are enclosed and heated. If severe weather changes the schedule, ticket holders are contacted by email or phone.
Is the ride wheelchair accessible?
The historic railcars have limited accessibility. Contact TVRM before booking to talk through boarding assistance and your needs.
More Christmas Events Near Chattanooga
More Christmas Events near Chattanooga
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.