Great Smoky Mountains by Rail: Cherokee Heritage & Appalachian Treasures
May 12, 2027 thru May 17, 2027
Experience the natural beauty, railroad heritage, and fascinating history of Chattanooga and the Southern Appalachian Mountains. From a comfortable five-night stay in the heart of the city, explore Chattanooga’s revitalized downtown, ride the historic Incline Railway to the top of Lookout Mountain, and wander through the dramatic rock formations and gardens of Rock City. Venture beneath the mountain to see the spectacular underground waterfall at Ruby Falls, then enjoy classic Southern dining and lively evening entertainment.
The journey continues with memorable rail excursions aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Missionary Ridge Local. Along the way, discover the rich history and enduring culture of the Cherokee people at the Chief Vann House and Cherokee Removal Memorial Park. An elegant high tea, dinner in a Victorian mansion, and an evening cruise on the Tennessee River complete this charming getaway filled with mountain scenery, historic trains, cultural discovery, and warm Southern hospitality.
Transportation
Roundtrip Economy Air Transportation
Transportation
Train Rides
Transportation
Motorcoach
Trip Duration
6 Days, 5 Nights
Activity Level 3
Moderate
Meals
11 Meals (5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners) included
Availability
Available
Gratuities
Tour director, driver & local guide tips included
Tour Highlights
- Stay Five Nights in Charming Chattanooga – Relax at the modern Drury Plaza Hotel while exploring one of Tennessee’s most scenic and walkable riverfront cities.
- Ride the Historic Incline Railway – Ascend Lookout Mountain aboard one of the world’s steepest passenger railways and enjoy breathtaking views of the Tennessee River Valley.
- Explore Rock City Gardens & Lookout Mountain – Wander among ancient rock formations, beautifully landscaped gardens, and spectacular overlooks while discovering the history of the famed “Battle Above the Clouds.”
- Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Adventure – Travel in premier-class comfort through the North Georgia mountains along the picturesque Toccoa River with time to explore the twin towns of McCaysville and Copperhill.
- Discover Cherokee History at the Chief Vann House – Tour the beautifully preserved 1804 mansion of Cherokee leader James Vann and learn about the rich heritage of the Cherokee Nation.
- Experience Ruby Falls & the Trail of Tears – Descend deep inside Lookout Mountain to a spectacular underground waterfall before gaining a deeper understanding of Cherokee resilience at the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park.
- Travel Back in Time on a Historic Steam-Era Railroad – Enjoy high tea and a narrated excursion aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Missionary Ridge Local, complete with a tunnel, turntable demonstration, and restoration shop tour.
- Dinner, River Cruise & Southern Hospitality – Savor an elegant dinner at the historic Mayor’s Mansion Inn before cruising the Tennessee River aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat as Chattanooga’s skyline glows at sunset.
Inclusions
- Roundtrip economy air transportation from ABQ
- Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
- 5 nights’ lodging at excellent hotels
- Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
- 11 Meals (5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners)
- Admission to all listed attractions
- Your Professional SUN TOURS Tour Director
- All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)
Day 1 – Welcome to Scenic Chattanooga
Fly to Chattanooga, Tennessee, affectionately known as the “Scenic City.” Nestled along the Tennessee River and surrounded by the Appalachian foothills, Chattanooga blends Southern hospitality, fascinating history, and spectacular natural beauty.
Upon arrival at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, you’ll be greeted by local transportation and transferred to the beautiful Drury Plaza Hotel, your home for the next five nights. Settle into your comfortable accommodations before enjoying the hotel’s complimentary Drury Kickback Reception, featuring hot appetizers and beverages each evening. The remainder of the evening is yours to relax or enjoy dinner at one of Chattanooga’s many nearby restaurants.
Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Chattanooga
Day 2 – Chattanooga's History, Lookout Mountain & Rock City
Following breakfast, discover why Chattanooga has become one of the South’s most celebrated destinations during a guided sightseeing tour of the city. Explore the revitalized downtown waterfront, historic districts, and the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo, once one of America’s busiest passenger rail terminals and immortalized in song.
Enjoy free time for lunch downtown before ascending historic Lookout Mountain aboard the legendary Incline Railway. Operating since 1895, this remarkable funicular railway climbs one of the world’s steepest passenger railway grades, offering breathtaking panoramic views over Chattanooga and the Tennessee River Valley.
At the summit, visit the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center, where exhibits and artifacts tell the story of the pivotal Civil War “Battle Above the Clouds.” Walk among preserved earthworks while taking in the sweeping vistas that made this strategic mountain so important during the Chattanooga Campaign.
The afternoon continues at enchanting Rock City Gardens, famous for its towering rock formations, winding garden pathways, ancient geological wonders, and spectacular overlooks. Wander the beautifully landscaped trails, discover whimsical art installations, and experience one of the Southeast’s most beloved natural attractions.
This evening, enjoy a memorable dinner surrounded by the beauty of Rock City before returning to your hotel.
Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Chattanooga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 – Blue Ridge Scenic Railway & Cherokee History
Today takes you into the beautiful mountains of North Georgia for one of the region’s most scenic rail adventures.
Travel to the charming mountain town of Blue Ridge, where you’ll board the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a leisurely journey through the Appalachian countryside. Relax in your premium-class accommodations as the train follows the picturesque Toccoa River, winding through forests, mountain valleys, and rural communities. During your extended layover, enjoy time to explore the neighboring twin towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, where the state line runs through the heart of downtown. Browse local shops, enjoy lunch on your own, and soak in the small-town atmosphere.
This afternoon, continue to the beautifully preserved Chief Vann House Historic Site, often called the “Showplace of the Cherokee Nation.” During a guided tour of this elegant 1804 brick mansion, learn about the remarkable life of Cherokee leader James Vann, admire the home’s famous floating staircase and handcrafted woodwork, and gain deeper insight into Cherokee history before the tragic Trail of Tears.
Return to Chattanooga for dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Chattanooga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 – Ruby Falls & The Trail of Tears
After breakfast, venture deep beneath Lookout Mountain to discover one of Tennessee’s most remarkable natural wonders—Ruby Falls. Descend 260 feet by elevator before walking along illuminated cavern pathways filled with dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock formations. Your journey culminates at the spectacular 145-foot underground waterfall, the tallest publicly accessible underground waterfall in the United States.
Lunch today is a true Southern tradition at Chattanooga’s beloved Bea’s Restaurant, where generous family-style dishes and warm hospitality have delighted visitors for generations.
This afternoon offers a meaningful look into an important chapter of American history at the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park (formerly known as Cherokee Trail of Tears State Park) in Birchwood. Through guided interpretation and exhibits, you’ll learn about the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their ancestral homeland, the hardships endured during the Trail of Tears, and the enduring strength and resilience of Cherokee culture today.
This evening, enjoy dinner and lively entertainment at The Playlist, where a delicious meal is paired with an energetic musical production featuring classic hits, talented performers, and state-of-the-art production.
Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Chattanooga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Historic Rail Travel, Victorian Elegance & Tennessee River Cruising
Today celebrates Chattanooga’s rich railroad heritage and scenic riverfront.
Begin with a delightful High Tea inside the beautifully restored Grand Junction Depot, where Southern hospitality meets timeless tradition.
Then board the historic Missionary Ridge Local excursion train at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, one of America’s premier operating railroad museums. During this narrated journey, travel through the pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel, cross historic bridges, watch a fascinating turntable demonstration, and enjoy a guided tour of the museum’s restoration facilities, where dedicated craftsmen preserve vintage locomotives and passenger cars for future generations.
Later, stroll through Chattanooga’s charming Bluff View Art District, known for its beautifully restored historic homes, artisan galleries, sculpture gardens, cafés, and stunning overlooks above the Tennessee River. Those wishing to do so may choose to visit the acclaimed Tennessee Aquarium (optional admission).
Late afternoon brings an elegant dinner at the historic Mayor’s Mansion Inn, a beautifully restored Victorian mansion renowned for its gracious atmosphere and exceptional cuisine.
The perfect finale to your Chattanooga adventure awaits aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. Cruise along the Tennessee River as live music fills the air and the city’s skyline, surrounding mountains, and riverfront create unforgettable scenery. Relax on deck, enjoy the evening ambiance, and take in one last look at the beautiful “Scenic City” from the water.
Overnight: Drury Plaza Hotel, Chattanooga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – Farewell Chattanooga
After breakfast, bid farewell to Chattanooga as you’re transferred to the airport for your return flight home, taking with you wonderful memories of scenic railroads, mountain vistas, Cherokee heritage, Southern hospitality, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Southern Appalachians.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Itinerary subject to change.
Fun Facts
Chattanooga Was Once America's Railroad Hub
Chattanooga became one of the nation's most important railroad centers in the late 1800s.
See Seven States from Lookout Mountain
On a clear day from the overlooks at Lookout Mountain and Rock City, it's said you can see seven states—Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Virginia.
Hotel Information
Drury Plaza Hotel
Chattanooga, TN
Package Pricing
$3,625 per person
Double Occupancy
Deposit: $200
$3,975 per person
Single Occupancy
Deposit: $200
Final Payment Due:
February 4, 2027
Deposit: N/A
Price Includes
Roundtrip economy air transportation from ABQ
Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
5 nights’ lodging at excellent hotels
Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
11 Meals (5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners)
Admission to all listed attractions
Your Professional SUN TOURS Tour Director
All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)
Booking Policy
CANCELLATION FEES:
- None – through February 4, 2027
- $200 – February 5 – March 3, 2027
- 60%* – March 4 – April 5, 2027
- 100%* – after April 5, 2027
*Fee as percentage of total package price.
We pride ourselves on great service and an enjoyable experience for all and will go over our booking policies after you make your request for booking. If you’d like to learn more about our booking policies before your trip, give us a call at (505) 889-8888, or visit our Booking Policies page.
Travel Insurance
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injhttps://www.pleasurebenttours.com/book-your-tour/travel-insurance/ury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. TRAVEL PROTECTION STARTS AT $352. Please click here for more information.
ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING
Level 3: Moderate
Expectations: Expect a moderate amount of walking, 2-3 hours of walking each day. There will be time to rest on the coach and between attractions. To enjoy this tour, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperatures.
Appropriate for: Most travelers beginning with those who are moderately fit, lead semi-active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities and expect some physical exertion without the use of a cane or walker mobility aid.
AIRLINE TICKETS
You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Albuquerque International Airport. If you have a frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation.
If you are joining the tour from locations other than Albuquerque, we can make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.
BAGGAGE
We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carry on baggage and contents due to enhanced security.
CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES
On our scheduled airline for this tour, passengers are assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.
ITINERARY
For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.
The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.
GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE
The traditional end-of-tour gratuity to your tour director is included on this tour. All hotel porterage and airport skycap (when available) fees are included. We also include the gratuities for the coach drivers. Hotel housekeeping tips are not included.
LODGING REQUESTS
If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.
Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.
TRAVEL REQUESTS
We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.
RESPONSIBILITY
SUN TOURS acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.
WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS
Mid-May is one of the best times of year to visit Chattanooga. Spring is in full bloom, temperatures are pleasantly warm, and the surrounding mountains are lush and green.
Typical Conditions:
☀️ Average High: 78–81°F (26–27°C)
🌙 Average Low: 56–60°F (13–16°C)
Call 505.889.8888 to Book Today!
If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.
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