Catch a ride this holiday season when the Three Rivers Rambler becomes the “Christmas Express” at 10:30 a.m, 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. on November 27, 28 & 29 and December 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20. Children of all ages will experience the magic of a holiday train ride through Knoxville.

Passengers will be served Christmas cookies and refreshments and Santa Claus will board the train at the halfway point to visit and give our passengers a gift.

The 90 minute, 11-mile “Christmas Express” will depart from Volunteer Landing and make its way from downtown Knoxville, along the Tennessee River, farmland, and several old quarries. During the ride, storytellers will read a new holiday book, called The Christmas Lantern. Here is an excerpt:

I shivered in the bitter cold as the snow fell around us. As we walked, Grandfather said, "This night reminds me of a Christmas Eve many years ago when I worked on a steam engine named Lindy. We were pulling a train filled with Christmas mail in a terrible snowstorm. Chuff... Chuff... Chuff... Lindy went as she crept down the track, with smoke pouring out her stack and firelight beneath her firebox.

*All reservations require prepayment. MC, VI, AMX, DIS are accepted. NO refunds. Restrooms are available on board.  Pricing, schedule, motive power and equipment subject to change without notice. Service animals only – no pets allowed. Limited disability access (call for more information). Seating is first come first serve.

Frequently Asked Questions:

When should we arrive?

Please plan to arrive 30 minutes before departure time to board the train and find your seats.

Are the cars heated?

The enclosed cars do have heating systems but if it is extremely cold, please dress accordingly. We make every effort for a comfortable ride but if your family is cold natured consider bringing a blanket.

When should I make reservations?

As soon as possible! In past years, the Christmas Express has sold out in November so do not wait until the last minute.

Can we wear pajamas on the train?

Pajamas are ok. Bring a camera too!

Location: The train is located on the Volunteer Landing Riverwalk between Calhoun's and Bridgeview Grill restaurants. If you want to enter it in your GPS - Calhoun's is at 400 Neyland Drive, Knoxville TN. Signs in the area direct you to the parking lot.  

Parking: is located across from the Bridgeview Grill. We share a lot with the University of Tennessee. There are signs to direct you.

Pick up Tickets: Everyone must pick up tickets at the train prior to departure. We do not mail tickets. Please arrive 30 minutes early. We do have a golf cart to assist people with getting to the train. Call our office 865-524-9411 when you arrive and we will send the golf cart to you.

Train Ride: For first time riders of the Christmas Express, we offer hot chocolate and cookies while boarding the train, after about 20 minutes we will stop the train to read the Christmas Lantern story, at the turn around point of the ride Santa will board the train to ride back with us. He will visit each guest and allow for pictures. One of his helpers will pass out an ornament to each guest who wants one. After about a 90 minute ride we will be back at Volunteer Landing.  

The cars are enclosed and heated but dress for the weather. We do have restrooms on board the train along with a gift shop where you can purchase a hardback copy of the story, The Christmas Lantern.