Tennessee Scenic Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
Last revised: April 17, 2026
By: Adam Burns
With its first railroad chartered in the 1840's and Appalachian Mountain location, Tennessee scenic train rides offer a combination of history and beauty.
You will enjoy breathtaking views of rolling green hills, steep mountain passes, winding rivers, and bucolic farms. Many of these attractions are even powered by historic steam locomotives, such as the Tennessee Central Railway Museum and Three Rivers Rambler.
Most organizations also host special holiday events during Christmas, Easter, and Halloween. In addition, "A Day Out With Thomas," is a widely popular affairs for the kids where the real Thomas the tank engine is present to pull the train.
They are is held at select locations throughout the country, including in Tennessee. Also highlighted here are Tennessee railroad museums.
Please note! The guide here pertains to scenic train rides. If you are after intercity or long-distance rail travel please consider visiting Amtrak's website for more information.
State Rail History
Like
most Appalachian states (notably West Virginia and Kentucky),
Tennessee was important to railroads for its rich veins of bituminous
coal.
The state was also home to several major cities like Memphis, Chattanooga, and Nashville. In addition, key north-south main lines of the Illinois Central and Gulf, Mobile & Ohio passed through its western fringe on their way to Chicago and the Gulf Coast (New Orleans).
According to the book, "Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis: A History Of 'The Dixie Line'," by Dain Schult, Tennessee's railroading origins began with the Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad's (N&C) chartering on December 11, 1845 by the General Assembly.
Its purpose was to link its namesake cities with the eastern terminus of Chattanooga, thereby providing a connection with the recently completed Western & Atlantic continuing eastward into Atlanta. The N&C's long-term goal was to provide a through connection from the east coast to southern Appalachia's interior.
While it never reached the cities of Savannah, Wilmington, or Charleston, as initially hoped, it nevertheless proved an important transportation artery for Tennessee.
Its original, 152 mile line was finished in February, 1854 while the addition of the Nashville & Northwestern Railroad in August, 1868 provided an extension to Hickman, Kentucky. In 1873 the N&C was renamed the Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Railway.
The company would ultimately never reach the Gateway City but did connect to Memphis and Paducah, Kentucky while another branch offered an extension into northern Alabama.
Relations between the NC&StL and nearby rival Louisville & Nashville had cooled considerably by the latter 1870s. The L&N was in much better financial condition and realized a NC&StL extension to St. Louis would potentially harm its future prospects.
As a result, it used sly tactics to gain stock control in January, 1880. In the modern age the nearly 1,200-mile NC&StL was a vital component of the L&N. It remained a separate corporate entity until 1957.
Tennessee's rail mileage peaked in 1920 at 4,078 with most service provided through the above-mentioned names along with the Southern Railway and Tennessee Central.
Following many mergers and abandonments, the state is now home to just 2,552 miles according to the Association of American Railroads.
Overview
Today, the state's tourist railroads attempt to preserve this bygone era. If you truly want to experience the splendor of Tennessee rail travel, plan your ride during the peak fall foliage season when mountains explode with vibrant colors. To learn more about the state's excursion rides please read on below.
If you are interested in specific events, such as "The Polar Express," Halloween, Thomas the Tank Engine excursions, or fall foliage events please visit the main tourist trains section of this website.
A.C. Kalmbach Memorial Library - National Model Railroad Association (NMRA)
This is NMRA's research library located in Chattanooga. It used for research proposes in modeling prototypical railroad scenes. They have a very large collection of material on-hand, ranging from books and periodicals to photos and videos.
Casey Jones Railroad Museum
This museum, located in Jackson, has a collection of artifacts and displays. Its primary purpose is to highlight the story of Casey Jones who heroically died saving the passenger aboard his train on April 30, 1900. Additionally, there are a few pieces of rolling stock to view outdoors.
Chattanooga Choo Choo
While no train rides are available here, the Chattanooga Choo Choo is a well-known tourist attraction located inside the former Southern Railway's Terminal Station.
The grand building has been converted into a modern day hotel, shopping center, restaurants, and other. While there be sure and visit the model train layout, rolling stock on display, and available trolley to ride!
Cookeville Depot Museum
This museum is located inside the town's restored Tennessee Central Railway depot built in 1909.
Inside the brick building is a collection of artifacts and displays while outdoors are several pieces of rolling stock including Tennessee Central 4-6-0 #509 (built by Baldwin in 1909). The museum is open on select days throughout the year and is free of charge.
Cowan Railroad Museum
The Cowan Railroad Museum is housed inside the town's restored Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis depot where several displays and artifacts are available to peruse, including an operating model train layout.
Outside you can see 2-4-2 #1, built for the Cherokee Brick & Tile in 1920 by H.K. Porter, along with other pieces of rolling stock.
Dollywood Express Train
One of the state's most popular tourist attractions, the Dollywood Express is located near Pigeon Forge featuring train excursions within the amusement park.
The 3-foot, narrow-gauge railroad utilizes historic steam locomotives that trace their roots back to the White Pass & Yukon of Alaska. Also, be sure to see their operating garden railroad!
Little River Railroad
The Little River Railroad tells the history of logging rail operations in the state, and throughout the Smoky Mountains.
It is based in Townsend and features a collection outdoor displays and rolling stock as well as exhibits inside. They are open from April through November; during the cooler months please call for an appointment.
Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
This attraction is located at Chattanooga's Lookout Mountain. It has been in service since 1895 ferrying passengers up the side of the mountain and is a National Historic site as well as a Mechanical Engineering Landmark.
Lynnville Railroad Museum
This museum is situated inside a restored Louisville & Nashville depot located in Lynnville, which houses a collection of historic artifacts. Outside are pieces of rolling stock on display, including Republic Steel 2-6-2 #294 built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1927.
Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Depot & Railroad Museum
This museum is located inside the town's restored NC&StL brick depot. The museum features several displays, artifacts, and a large operating layout; outside is a small collection of rolling stock.
Southern Appalachia Railway Museum
This museum, located in Oak Ridge, attempts to preserve the history of rail operations in the Southern Appalachia region. The group also sponsors the Secret City Scenic Excursion.
Tennessee Central Railway Museum
Arguably the most popular of all Tennessee scenic train rides, the TCRM is based in Nashville and focused primarily on preserving the state's railroad history. However, it also operates excursion trains throughout the year offering trips that travel as far as 180 miles, round trip!
Tennessee Valley Railroad
The only TN train ride where dinner can be enjoyed, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is mainly a tourist railroad operating on ex-Southern Railway trackage, originally purchased in 1969.
Today, the organization operates a 6-mile round trip near Chattanooga and hosts numerous specials throughout the year including dinner trains, Halloween trains, fall foliage trips, and much more.
Three Rivers Rambler
The Three Rivers
Rambler is based in city of Knoxville offering an 11-mile round trip using
both steam and diesel locomotives. The railroad also hosts numerous
special and seasonal trains throughout the operating season between June
and December.
Recent Articles
-
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers. -
Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad. -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here! -
Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a… -
Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme… -
Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can. -
Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist… -
California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri… -
Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:48 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026). -
The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average… -
Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:59 AM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here! -
Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:56 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown
May 19, 26 11:53 AM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history. -
Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:50 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip! -
Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:49 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over… -
Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:43 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un… -
South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:40 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:33 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style. -
Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle
May 19, 26 10:01 AM
Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel… -
Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides
May 19, 26 09:49 AM
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event. -
TP&W Railway Timetables (January, 1930)
May 18, 26 03:23 PM
Featured here is the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway's timetables listed in the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
CSX SD40-2 8888, "Crazy Eights": The 2001 Runaway Train
May 18, 26 02:02 PM
On May 15, 2001, a single locomotive—CSX SD40-2 No. 8888—began one of the most infamous runaway train incidents in American railroad history. -
North Carolina "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:40 PM
One of the most popular warm-weather offerings at NCTM is the Ice Cream Train, a simple but brilliant concept: pair a relaxing ride with a classic summer treat. -
New York "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:32 PM
While CMRR runs several seasonal excursions, one of the most family-friendly (and, frankly, joyfully simple) offerings is its Ice Cream Express. -
New Mexico 'Murder Mystery' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:31 PM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Michigan 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:28 PM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Ohio 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:24 PM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries. -
Pennsylvania 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:22 PM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes. -
Minnesota BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:10 PM
If you’re looking for a perfect mix of nostalgia, stunning Lake Superior views, and mouthwatering food, the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota, delivers—literally. -
South Carolina BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:05 PM
There is only location in the Palmetto State offering a true dinner train experience can be found at the South Carolina Railroad Museum. Learn more here.
%20at%20Lexington%2C%20Tennessee%20in%201953.%20Note%20lack%20of%20MU%20capabilities.%20Photo%20from%20the%20Randy%20James%20collection.){kind=link}