Whiskey tasting train rides in Tennessee combine two of the state’s most enduring passions: heritage spirits and vintage railroading. Imagine settling into a restored 1940s coach, the soft clatter of steel wheels underfoot, a flight of Tennessee whiskeys at your elbow, and a guide sharing stories that weave together mash bills, master distillers, and the very tracks you’re rolling over. While Tennessee does not have a permanent, daily “whiskey train,” several rail operators host limited, adults-only tasting excursions throughout the year, and a handful of dinner trains offer curated beverage service that sometimes highlights local whiskey. Here’s what to know, who to watch, and how to plan an unforgettable rail-and-whiskey experience in the Volunteer State.
Where whiskey meets the rails in Tennessee
Tennessee’s excursion rail scene is anchored by nonprofit museums and heritage operators that run special event trains on select dates. Their calendars evolve seasonally, and whiskey-centric runs tend to be pop-up style—often themed as “Spirits on the Rails,” “Speakeasy,” or paired tasting dinners. The three names to keep on your radar:
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (Chattanooga)
TVRM is the state’s most active excursion operator, known for its Dinner on the Diner, Summerville Steam Specials, and the scenic Hiwassee Loop and Copperhill trips. The dinner train regularly features curated beverage service, and on select dates they’ve offered themed events for 21+ passengers. Expect white-tablecloth ambiance in vintage dining cars, optional drink pairings that can include regional spirits, and a relaxed two-hour circuit out of Chattanooga. Check tvrail.com for calendar details, as menus and pairings change with the season…