-Welcome Aboard the Christmas Lantern Express-
2024 Christmas Lantern Express tickets are now live!
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Guests aboard the excursion train enjoy a seasonal trip along the Tennessee River. Beginning the journey in Downtown Knoxville at our new depot located at University Commons, the Rambler travels past historical sites to the “Three Rivers Trestle” where the French Broad and Holston Rivers join to form the Tennessee River.
Along the route, the Three Rivers Rambler passes by beautiful farmland, Knoxville’s first settlement area, and more (that you can read about on the Virtual Trip page). The uniformed conductor and volunteer staff are well-versed in the local history and welcome questions during the 11-mile trip.
The Rambler has restrooms available in the depot, as well as onboard the train. We sell drinks and snacks in both locations, and you are welcome to bring your own (non-alcoholic) drinks and snacks. The 3RR will run in rain, snow, or shine; we strongly urge you and your guests to dress for the applicable weather conditions so that you can enjoy venturing out on the open air car.
*Please note: Our steam engine No. 203, "Lindy," is undergoing a 15 year FRA rebuild and is currently not in service. Therefore, for steam-operated trains we will operate with our coal-fired steam engine No.154 with diesel power as a backup should No. 154 have any operating issues.
Ticket Information
Ticket reservations can also be made calling 865-524-9411. If trains are not sold out, tickets will be on sale at our depot 30 minutes before departure times. We accept all major credit cards, cash and checks. For groups of 15 or more, please call for special pricing.
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.
*PLEASE NOTE: YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BRING A PRINTED RECEIPT WITH YOU TO THE TRAIN
WE WILL CHECK YOU IN VIA AN ELECTRONIC ROSTER WHEN YOU ARRIVE*
Field Trips
Please call to discuss 2024 field trip dates & pricing.
Wheelchair & Mobility Assistance
Two handicap parking spaces are available next to our depot with more spaces and sidewalks nearby. Because our passenger cars were built in 1925, wheelchair access on the train is limited, with doorways that only accept standard wheelchairs (not motorized). Wheelchairs need to be under 25 inches across to fit through to an enclosed car, but the open air car is available for anyone. We have a wheelchair lift to allow access on board the train. Restrooms at our depot are accessible, however our train restrooms have limited accessibility. Please call 865-524-9411 for additional information if you or anyone in your party will need boarding or mobility assistance.
Gift Certificates
Gift Certificates for the current year can be purchased online.
