The museum, operating excursions for more than 30 years, offers day trips on a streamlined passenger train through scenic middle Tennessee over the tracks of the Nashville & Eastern Railroad to various locations. The duration of excursions varies from 2 to 12 hours, depending on the destination.
Choices
Excursions run throughout the year to Watertown, Baxter, Lebanon, Cookeville, Monterey, and other destinations. Dome seating is limited and sells out early on most trips. All excursion seats are reserved and offer large windows with great views. Trains are air-conditioned, and refreshments and snacks are available. All trains have a special theme: from on-board train robberies, murder mysteries and winery trains, to seasonal Easter Bunny or North Pole trips during the holidays.
When to go
Excursions are all theme based on selected Saturdays and operate on the Nashville & Eastern Railroad and have varying lengths and times. Tours of the museum grounds and equipment are available on select days.
Good to know
The museum is housed in the former Tennessee Central Railway’s master mechanic’s office, and it includes a large collection of Tennessee Central artifacts and memorabilia.
Worth doing
Only minutes away are numerous downtown attractions that will appeal to the entire family. These include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Music City Center, Ascend Amphitheater, Frist Center for the Visual Arts, Tennessee State Capitol building, and Riverfront Park.
Don’t miss
Tour Nashville’s historic 117-year-old restored Union Station, which is now a hotel. Ride Nashville’s Music City Star commuter train from downtown Riverfront Station. Both are a short drive from the museum.
Getting there
The museum is located a mile east of downtown Nashville. From I-40, take Exit 212 and turn left. Go a block to Hermitage Avenue (Highway 70) and turn left. Turn right at Fairfield Avenue, which becomes Willow Street. Follow signs to the museum, which is located at the bottom of the hill on the left.
Location: 220 Willow Street, Nashville, TN
Phone: 615-244-9001 or 615-241-0436
Website: tcry.org
E-mail: terry.bebout@rjcorman.com
