Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley Railroad

Autumn transforms the Tennessee landscape into a brilliant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds, and there’s no better way to see it than by rail. Join us for a breathtaking journey through the Volunteer State complete with visits to iconic sites and a train ride on a historic railroad.

Day 1 – Tennessee Aquarium – Chattanooga – "All aboard" our deluxe motorcoach as we head to picturesque Chattanooga, TN. Upon arrival, we'll visit the impressive Tennessee Aquarium, the world's largest freshwater life center with more than 10,000 marine animals. Tonight, we check into our hotel accommodations in Chattanooga. Dinner is included this evening.

Day 2 – Rock City Gardens– Lookout Mountain – Battles for Chattanooga – Mayor’s Mansion Inn – Southern Belle Riverboat – After an included breakfast, we start a fun-filled day with a tour of one of Chattanooga’s famous attractions, Rock City Gardens. Rock City is a natural wonder with ancient rock formations, colorful gardens, and panoramic views of seven states. After lunch on our own, we ride up "America's Most Amazing Mile," the incline railway up Lookout Mountain. Then it’s on to Battles for Chattanooga, where we see an entertaining presentation on Chattanooga’s role in the Civil War. This historical display uses the latest technology to bring to life the Battle of Chattanooga that sealed the fate of the Confederacy. This evening, we enjoy an included dinner at Mayor’s Mansion Inn, an 1889 Victorian home. After dinner, we board the Southern Belle Riverboat for a sunset cruise on the Tennessee River. The surrounding mountains and valleys paint the perfect backdrop for a sunset of vivid colors. Overnight same hotel.

Day 3 – Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum – Missionary Ridge Train Ridge – Home – After an included breakfast, we visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, the largest operating historic railroad in the southeast. Founded in 1957, the TVRM has collected and restored many vintage railroad cars including a dining car, a pullman, and a mail car. We’ll walk through these remarkable pieces of history then take a captivating journey aboard the Missionary Ridge Train. This 65-minute adventure offers passengers a rich historical experience, travelling through the historic pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel, a marvel of 19 th century engineering. Afterwards, we depart Chattanooga and journey back to the Bluegrass State.

Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners