Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the Rambler have any spring/summer trips during 2025?
A: We will run our Christmas Lantern Express season in November and December. Click here to book tickets!
Q: Where do we park?
A: We have a lot adjacent to our depot with free parking available. Please ignore "Employee Only" signs posted by the Commons is discourage students from parking here for class.
Q: How long is the excursion?
A: Our trips last just under 2 hours. We board 20 minutes before departure, so be sure to factor that in.
Q: Are there restrooms on the train?
A: Yes, we have two restrooms located in the merchandise car as well as two restrooms located at our depot.
Q: Will the cars be heated/air conditioned?
A: Yes, we do heat all of cars when it’s needed in winter. One car has air conditioning while our all other passenger cars have fans with open windows.
Q: Should we print our tickets?
A: You may certainly print your tickets, although simply having the email handy on your cell phone or giving your name at check in will work.
Q: What will passengers see along the way?
A: Check out our Virtual Tour for a list of sites we will pass on our way to the forks of the river. As a point of reference, our route follows the Tennessee River for most of its journey east out of Knoxville.
Q: Are seats assigned?
A: You are free to sit wherever you may choose on any of our cars, including the open air car! When choosing your seat, keep in mind that we do not turn our train at the midpoint of our trip. If you are facing forward on the journey out, you will be facing backward on the return trip. Additionally, you are free to move about on the train throughout the trip.
Q: Will we be able to depart the train at the halfway point?
A: For safety & insurance purposes, none of our excursions offer an off-train destination this year.
Q: How do we find the depot?
A: Check out our directions page here. Please note that some traditional GPS systems will not recognize our address.
Q: Does the Rambler run rain or shine (or snow)?
A: The train leaves rain or shine but we do recommend that you dress for the weather (i.e. layers in winter-time and comfortable shoes). If the expected outside temperature does not rise above freezing the entire day, trips may be canceled. In the event of a weather related cancellation, passengers will be first notified by email then with a follow-up phone call. Tickets will be refunded automatically in this situation and may take 2-3 days to process.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: In case of cancellation due to illness, a voucher will be given for the purchase amount to be used within one year of the original event date.
Vouchers will not be given without prior notification; tickets must be cancelled 48 hours in advance. We do not offer vouchers for no notice missed excursions.
Q: Are pets allowed on the train?
A: Unfortunately, due to the reaction to the train whistle, we ask that you do not bring pets to ride the train. We are also conscientious of other passenger's possible allergies.
Q: Will food be available?
A: We have a concession stand in our merchandise car with snack items such as popcorn, chips and coke products. You are welcome to bring food with you for the ride, but please note that alcoholic beverages are not permitted during the trip.
Christmas Lantern Questions
Q: Will Santa be on the Rambler for our trip?
A: We will have a special guest in red on all Christmas Lantern excursions.
Q: Will hot chocolate be available on the train?
A: Yes, we will have complimentary hot chocolate and ginger bread cookies for each trip.
Q: Are the cars heated?
A: Yes, our enclosed cars are heated when necessary. Bring a coat to visit the open air car!
