Chattanooga Dinner Train

An Unforgettable Dining Experience on the Rails

Embark on a truly unique adventure that combines the charm of a historic train ride with the elegance of fine dining. Join us aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Dinner Train, offered on select Fridays and Saturdays from March through October. This exceptional excursion invites you to savor a delectable three-course meal while traveling in beautifully restored dining cars, offering a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel.

Our Dinner Trains are a beloved experience for many, and it’s easy to see why. The Dining Car Superintendent, along with a dedicated team of Stewards and Chefs, delivers outstanding service and expertly crafted dishes, all within the nostalgic setting of our historic railcars. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique dining experience, a meal aboard the Dinner Train promises to be a memorable event.

Departing from Chattanooga’s Grand Junction depot in the evening, the train meanders at a leisurely pace through the areas of urban East Chattanooga before reversing direction and returning to Grand Junction. With departure times typically set for 6:30 PM on select Fridays and Saturdays, the journey is perfectly timed to enjoy a full, relaxed meal as the world rolls by outside your window.

Dates: 8/16/2024, 8/17/2024, 8/23/2024, 8/24/2024, 8/30/2024, 8/31/2024, 9/6/2024, 9/7/2024, 9/13/2024, 9/14/2024, 9/20/2024, 9/21/2024, 9/27/2024, 9/28/2024, 10/4/2024, 10/5/2024, 10/11/2024, 10/12/2024, 10/18/2024, 10/19/2024, 10/26/2024

What is a Pullman car?

A Pullman car is a type of railway passenger car that was originally built and operated by the Pullman Palace Car Company, which was founded in 1867 by George Pullman. These cars were designed for overnight travel and were typically used on long-distance trains. They were known for their luxurious amenities, including comfortable seating, private sleeping compartments, dining cars, and other on-board services. The Pullman Palace Car Company also operated a fleet of "Hotel on Wheels" cars that provided sleeping and dining accommodations to passengers. Many Pullman cars were also used during the golden age of rail travel and were considered a symbol of luxury and prestige.

Learn more about our Pullman car

Ticket Prices:

Diner:

• Table for 1 person - $166
• Table for 2 people - $166
• Table for 3 people - $234
• Table for 4 people - $300

Pullman:

• Table for 1 person - $180
• Table for 2 people - $180

Dress Code

We do not have a formal dress code for the dinner train, but most passengers seem to enjoy dressing up a bit.

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.

Chattanooga Belt Line History:

This historic excursion line takes you on a journey through time, starting on a pre-Civil War route that crosses four bridges and passes through the Missionary Ridge Tunnel. As you travel through East Chattanooga, you'll be able to see the Chattanooga Zoo (established in 1937) and the Warner Park fields (previously called "Olympia Park"), which served as a public recreation area in the early 20th century for events such as horse races, ballgames, and military training exercises. The train also travels alongside the Chattanooga National Cemetery (established in 1863) and the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park, a 33-acre outdoor international sculpture museum. Please note that this ride does not take you through any scenic mountain or river areas, as the tracks are located in urban East Chattanooga. Upon completion of the excursion, you will return to the Grand Junction Depot.

Customer reviews:

Dinner Train was the most amazing experience! Food was wonderful and the staff was awesome! Highly recommend the train! Connie H - TripAdvisor

The dinner on the train was amazing. You literally step back in time to a completely restored 1920 dinner car. The food is exceptional and the porter, dressed in period dress, is friendly and informative. The train ride is 2 hours, just enough time to enjoy the three course dinner. A really enjoyable dinner. Jim H - TripAdvisor

We had a wonderful time on the Dinner Train last night. The food was amazing and the service impeccable. To have a 5-star meal and such historic surroundings was quite a treat. Thanks to Jordan and his amazing crew that took such great care of us! Chris M - TripAdvisor

The dinner train was great. Our server Hayden made the ride so much fun. The car is beautifully done and the pullman's table area was worth the little extra. The dinner and company makes the ride. The scenery was inside the train for sure. Food was fab and dessert was YUM! jbow - TripAdvisor

Additional Questions:

You can reach us through email at info@tvrail.com, by phone at 423-894-8028, or by clicking on the chat button located in the lower right corner of our website at https://www.tvrail.com.

Did you know that when you purchase a ticket with the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, you are helping to preserve the history of railroads?

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.

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