Chattanooga Choo Choo
Historic rail station offering unique stays in converted train cars, plus dining, entertainment, and a magical light show.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the magical light show
Chattanooga Choo Choo
Best Time
Experience the magical light show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic rail station offering unique stays in converted train cars, plus dining, entertainment, and a magical light show.
"Super cool experience while in Chattanooga. You can stay in a train car if you stay here."
🎯 Book Train Car Stays Early
These unique accommodations are popular; book well in advance to secure your spot!
💡 Check Garden Light Hours
The 'Nightmare Before Christmas' light show has specific operating hours, so verify before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stay in a Train Car
Hotel Chalet
Sleep in a beautifully converted historic train car for a truly unique lodging experience.
Gardens of Lights
Chattanooga Choo Choo Gardens
Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of nearly a million synchronized lights set to an eerie soundtrack.
Live Entertainment & Dining
Station Area
Enjoy live music and a variety of dining options, from casual to upscale, within walking distance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Explore Beyond the Station
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Train Car Stays Early
These unique accommodations are popular; book well in advance to secure your spot!
💡 Check Garden Light Hours
The 'Nightmare Before Christmas' light show has specific operating hours, so verify before you go.
🚶♀️ Walkable to Downtown
Many restaurants and attractions are within easy walking distance from the Choo Choo.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Options
Some accommodations welcome pets, with amenities like dog beds and bowls provided.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Train Car Stays Early
These unique accommodations are popular; book well in advance to secure your spot!
💡 Check Garden Light Hours
The 'Nightmare Before Christmas' light show has specific operating hours, so verify before you go.
🚶♀️ Walkable to Downtown
Many restaurants and attractions are within easy walking distance from the Choo Choo.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Options
Some accommodations welcome pets, with amenities like dog beds and bowls provided.
💰 Be Aware of Menu Prices
Some on-site dining options may not display prices, so inquire beforehand to avoid surprises.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Chattanooga Choo Choo for its unique lodging in historic train cars and the nostalgic atmosphere, complemented by a vibrant dining and entertainment scene. While many highlight the recent improvements and charm, some note areas of deterioration and inconsistent service from staff.
"Fantastic experience. Being welcomed at the door with excellent service, this hotel provides a classic luxury experience of when the railroads were the way to travel. From decorative inhouse rooms to staying overnight in an actual rail car. You can walk to many of the restaurants, listen to live music, or just relax and hang out by the pool."
Josh Easterling
"We absolutely loved our stay! The room was spacious and clean. We brought both our dogs and they had two dog beds set up as well as food and water bowls. Truly, we felt like we underpaid for the experience. The location has lots of hipster restaurants around it. Everything was perfect for us and we can't wait to return!"
Heather Buschman
"We stayed in a train car and it was gorgeous!!! It was february and a little cold but the heater worked great! I was in love with the bathroom! Would definitely stay here again but the check in girl was hard to understand, didn't give any information at all we had to ask how to get to the cars and where to park. Could have better staff."
Michigan Lines Railfan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chattanooga Choo Choo is conveniently located downtown. You can reach it by car, with parking available on-site. It's also accessible via rideshares and is within walking distance of many downtown hotels.
While direct public bus routes might vary, the Choo Choo is centrally located, making it a good starting point for exploring the city on foot or using local trolley services if available.
Many visitors find walking to be a great option for nearby attractions. For further destinations like Lookout Mountain, consider rideshares or local tours. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the grounds and common areas of the Chattanooga Choo Choo is usually free. However, specific attractions like the 'Nightmare Before Christmas' light show require tickets.
The grounds are generally accessible, but individual businesses and attractions within the complex have their own operating hours. The light show runs from 6 to 11 p.m.
Room rates vary, especially for the unique train car accommodations. It's best to check directly with The Hotel Chalet for current pricing and availability.
Yes, exploring the historic station, gardens, and common areas is free. Some outdoor entertainment areas also offer free access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can stay in a historic train car, enjoy live music, dine at various restaurants, explore the gardens (especially the light show), and relax by the pool. +1
While some trains are part of the hotel experience, others may be undergoing restoration or are part of the historical display. Check on-site for specific tour availability.
Yes, families often enjoy the novelty of staying in train cars, the gardens, and the various entertainment options available.
Absolutely! The complex features a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale establishments. +1
Some accommodations at The Hotel Chalet are pet-friendly and offer amenities for your furry friends.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of cuisines, including cafes, bakeries, and restaurants offering diverse menus. +1
While some spots can be pricey, there are cafes and casual eateries that offer more affordable choices. It's wise to check menus for pricing.
The area surrounding the Choo Choo is known for its 'hipster' restaurants and bars, offering many popular dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic train cars, the beautifully lit gardens at night, and the grand architecture of the station itself offer excellent photo opportunities.
Definitely! The 'Nightmare Before Christmas' light show transforms the gardens into a magical, photogenic wonderland.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a unique and exciting experience that kids often talk about long after the trip. The grounds offer space to explore, and the evening light shows can be a magical experience for younger ones. Plus, many of Chattanooga's family-friendly attractions, like the aquarium, are easily accessible from the Choo Choo. 🐶 Pet-Friendly Travelers
✨ Couples Seeking Romance
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens or a nice dinner at one of the on-site restaurants for a memorable date. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Unique Stays: The Hotel Chalet
Visitors rave about the attention to detail in the renovations, making it a memorable lodging choice. It's recommended to book these popular accommodations well in advance, especially if you're planning a visit during peak seasons. Beyond the train cars, the hotel also offers traditional rooms, ensuring options for various preferences. The location is a significant advantage, placing you right in the heart of Chattanooga's attractions, making it easy to explore the city on foot or with short rides.
This convenience, combined with the unique lodging, makes the Choo Choo a top pick for many travelers. Evening Enchantment: The Gardens
This attraction features nearly a million lights synchronized to an eerie soundtrack, creating an immersive and magical atmosphere. It's a popular spot for evening strolls and offers a different perspective of the historic grounds.Operating hours for these light shows are typically from 6 to 11 p.m., so it's crucial to check the schedule before your visit.
The visual spectacle makes it a must-see for photographers and anyone looking for a unique evening experience. The combination of historic architecture and dazzling light displays provides a captivating contrast. Exploring Chattanooga's Surroundings
For those interested in outdoor activities and scenic views, Point Park on Lookout Mountain offers panoramic vistas of the city and the Tennessee River.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit