Derailed: Trolley Tour and Train Ride in Chattanooga

Explore Chattanooga’s Transportation Heritage with the Derailed Tour

The Derailed: Trolley Tour and Train Ride in Chattanooga offers an engaging 4-hour experience that highlights the city’s transportation history through a combination of scenic trolley rides, a historic train journey, and visits to key landmarks. Priced at $59 per person, this tour is designed to appeal to history buffs, train enthusiasts, and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Chattanooga’s past. It departs from 1402 Market St at 10:30 am and includes a train ride on a classic locomotive as well as stops at notable sites like the Chattanooga Choo Choo, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

While the tour receives an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars from 95 reviews, some guests note that the trolley experience can sometimes be less comfortable. Still, the knowledgeable guides, value for money, and variety of activities make this an appealing choice for those wanting a well-rounded introduction to Chattanooga’s transportation past. It suits travelers who appreciate interactive history tours and want a combination of city sightseeing and hands-on train experiences.

Key Points

• Price: $59 per person, with bookings typically made 17 days in advance
• Duration: About 4 hours, starting at 10:30 am
• Highlights: Classic train ride, trolley sightseeing, and visits to historic sites
• Stops: Chattanooga Choo Choo, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga National Cemetery, and an automotive/motorcycle museum
• Guide: Known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and entertaining as seen in reviews
• Accessibility: Features air-conditioned transportation and service animals are allowed

Discover the Chattanooga Choo Choo Station

The tour begins at the over 100-year-old Chattanooga Choo Choo station, a building steeped in history and nostalgia. Guests enjoy a 20-minute visit that is free of charge and offers a glimpse into the city’s railway past. This station, once a bustling hub of passenger travel, now serves as a landmark and a reminder of Chattanooga’s importance in railway history. The station’s architecture and preserved ambiance provide an immediate sense of a bygone era, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Ride the Historic Locomotive at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

The centerpiece of the tour is the 2-hour train ride at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. This historic railroad museum not only offers train rides but also provides tours behind the scenes. Travelers step aboard a classic locomotive, experiencing what it was like to travel by passenger train decades ago. The visit to the museum includes opportunities to observe old steam engines up close and understand the role that railroads played in shaping Chattanooga.

Guests appreciate the authenticity of the train experience, with in-costume staff enhancing the atmosphere. The visit to the repair shop allows for a closer look at vintage engines and models, which is particularly enjoyable for train enthusiasts. The train journey also features a fascinating visit to the turntable, a highlight that many find memorable.

Visiting the Chattanooga National Cemetery

A brief 5-minute stop takes visitors to the Chattanooga National Cemetery, which is the second largest national cemetery in the United States. The cemetery is notable for its age and historical significance, offering a quiet space to reflect on the past. This stop provides a meaningful connection to American history and complements the transportation theme by highlighting Chattanooga’s role in national stories.

Visiting the Automotive and Motorcycle Museum

The tour includes a visit to an automotive and motorcycle museum. While specific details about this stop are limited, it adds a diverse element to the experience, showcasing vehicles that played roles in transportation evolution. This museum appeals to those interested in mechanical history and offers a visual contrast to the railway and trolley components.

The City Trolley Ride and Scenic Route

The trolley ride is a core part of the tour, covering the southside, downtown, and eastside districts of Chattanooga. Guided by Craig, who is praised for his wealth of knowledge and friendly demeanor, the trolley journey provides an informative overview of the city’s history and points of interest. The trolley is air-conditioned, making it comfortable despite some comments about the seat comfort.

Guests enjoy hearing stories about Chattanooga’s past and seeing the city’s streets from a local perspective. The scenic route offers a chance to observe architectural details and neighborhood highlights, with some reviewers wishing for a more scenic route.

The Guide: Craig’s Informative and Entertaining Style

The tour guide, Craig, is a standout feature, earning praise for his extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. Multiple reviews describe him as a fantastic storyteller who provides entertaining anecdotes alongside historical facts. His ability to balance education and entertainment greatly enhances the overall experience.

Craig also leads the behind-the-scenes visits at the railroad museum and shares fascinating stories about Chattanooga’s history throughout the tour. Guests appreciate his friendly demeanor and the depth of his expertise, making the tour both informative and enjoyable.

Logistics, Meeting Point, and Group Size

The tour starts at 1402 Market Street in Chattanooga, with most travelers booking 17 days in advance. It is operated by Chattanooga Trolley Tour, which offers a mobile ticket for convenience. The activity is limited to 22 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour ends back at the starting point, with most participants finding the meeting logistics straightforward.

The tour features air-conditioned transportation, and service animals are permitted, making it accessible to many visitors. The duration of approximately four hours offers a comprehensive look at Chattanooga’s transportation history without feeling rushed.

Practical Considerations and Guest Feedback

While the overall experience is highly rated, some guests find the trolley ride to be less comfortable. One review mentions that the seats are not ideal, and suggests that the trolley might benefit from a more scenic route. However, the train ride and museum visits tend to be praised as highlights of the tour.

Guests also mention that early booking helps secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. Since the tour is non-refundable, it’s advised to confirm plans well in advance.

Unique Highlights of the Derailed Tour

The tour’s combination of trolley and train experiences makes it distinctive. Seeing a turntable in action and visiting a historic railroad museum are specific highlights that appeal to transportation enthusiasts. The visit to Chattanooga’s oldest and second-largest national cemetery adds a historical depth beyond transportation, enriching the overall narrative.

The train ride with costumed staff and the behind-the-scenes access to vintage engines stand out as memorable experiences that many visitors value highly. The knowledgeable guide ensures that history and local stories are woven seamlessly into the journey.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Chattanooga Transportation Tour

The Derailed: Trolley Tour and Train Ride offers a comprehensive look at Chattanooga’s transportation history with engaging stops and informative guides. Priced at $59, it provides good value for those interested in trains, city history, and local landmarks.

While some may find the trolley uncomfortable, the train ride and museum visits compensate with authenticity and insight. This tour suits history enthusiasts, train lovers, and anyone wanting a diversified introduction to Chattanooga.

Travelers who appreciate storytelling, interactive sites, and city overview tours will find this experience both educational and entertaining. Just remember to book in advance due to popularity and weather considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour’s mix of activities makes it appropriate for families, history buffs, and rail enthusiasts alike.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing for a 4-hour tour is recommended. The trolley is air-conditioned, but consider bringing a hat or sunglasses if planning to spend time outdoors at stops.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed throughout the tour, making it accessible for guests with disabilities.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour relies on outdoor visits and train rides, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings occur about 17 days beforehand, but early reservations are advised to secure a spot and avoid last-minute disappointment.