The holiday season is here and now’s the time to plan a unique outing the kids will remember for years. Train rides dressed up in holiday style are perfect: motion, lights, Santa visits, hot cocoa, and a little escape from the usual routine. Here are three standout experiences for 2025 — including one just over the state line in North Carolina that’s worth the drive!
1. Holiday Train Rides:
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (Chattanooga, TN)
Why this is a top pick
Located in Chattanooga (two hours and 15 minutes east of us including a time zone change to Eastern) the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) has a strong reputation for immersive holiday train rides that go beyond “just a ride.” Its vintage coaches, festive ambiance, Santa visits, hot chocolate, cookie treats, and dedicated Christmas-settings make it especially family-friendly.
What rides are available in 2025
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Their “North Pole Limited” runs Nov 14 – Dec 23, 2025 in Chattanooga.
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They also offer a post-Christmas “Holiday Lights Train” from Dec 26, 2025 – Jan 11, 2026.
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A “Christmas Dinner Train” is also available if you want something extra special.
Parent-friendly tips
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Book early – popular times fill quickly.
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Daytime vs. evening: younger kids may prefer earlier.
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Dress in layers; stations and boarding can be chilly.
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Arrive 30 minutes ahead to allow for parking, check-in, boarding, photos.
2. Holiday Train Rides:
Tennessee Central Railway Museum (Nashville area / Middle Tennessee)
If (and when!) it snows in Tennessee, a holiday train ride will be amazing!
Why it works especially for Middle Tennessee families
If you’re based here in Middle Tennessee, this Santa Express is a convenient and festive option. The museum offers “Santa Express Excursion Trains” departing in the Nashville area.
What to expect in 2025
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Select Saturdays: Nov 22, Nov 29, Dec 6, Dec 13, Dec 20, 2025 (check their site for exact times).
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Round-trip train ride, about 2 hours total.
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Options of coach seating or premium dome seating for a more panoramic experience.
Parent-friendly tips
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Earlier departures are better for younger kiddos (before bedtime).
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Dome seats cost more but may feel extra special.
Consider packing small snacks or water—even if the train provides treats, you might prefer some extras.
3. Holiday Train Rides:
Bonus (worth the drive!) — Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s “THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride” (Bryson City, NC)
Why this one is extra special
While technically just across the border in North Carolina (Bryson City, NC), this ride is far enough and magical enough that many Tennessee families make the trek. The Polar Express experience is themed after the classic holiday story and offers full immersion: cocoa, cookies, storytelling, Santa, and the famous “silver bell” – all aboard a historic train.
What to expect in 2025
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Dates: Nov 6 – Dec 31, 2025. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad+1
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Round-trip duration: 1¼ hours (~75 minutes). Great Smokies+1
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Classes of service: Coach, Crown, Premium Crown, First Class (each with varying amenities: souvenir mugs, tote bags, upgraded seats).
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On-board treats: hot chocolate served in souvenir mug or tumbler, cookies, silver sleigh bell for each child. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad+1
Parent-friendly tips
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Because it’s a 5-hour drive, plan for travel time from Tennessee (e.g., from the Nashville/Knoxville region).
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Arrive early: parking is near the depot but you’ll want time to stroll around Bryson City historic downtown for a hot-chocolate vibe.
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Choose your seating class wisely: if you’re going for “wow” and don’t mind higher cost, Premium/First offer extra perks.
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For younger kids: consider earlier departure to avoid bedtime meltdown.
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Dress kids warmly — you’ll be outside boarding/disembarking and the mountains can be chilly.
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Make the day: consider combining with a bit of Bryson City fun (shops, dessert, scenic walk) to make the outing more than just the ride.
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