Guide To The First-Ever Great Smoky Mountains Music Train
The Wait Is Over! The Inaugural Great Smoky Mountains Music Train Starts This Weekend!
This Friday and Saturday, riders will experience live Appalachian music with bluegrass, country, folk, and blues performances aboard the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad while traveling through the breathtaking Smoky Mountains. From intimate onboard sets to unforgettable scenery, this is shaping up to be a one-of-a-kind musical adventure.
We can’t wait to welcome an incredible lineup of artists and guests for the very first edition of this event.
There are still a limited number of tickets available if you’d like to join us last minute.
We’ll be sharing highlights throughout the weekend on social, so be sure to follow along and tag us in your photos and videos.
Box Office, Check-In & Important Things to Know
The box office will be located next to the Train Depot (look for the pop-up tent).
Hours: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
To avoid waiting in line before departure, we recommend checking in as early as possible.
Wristbands are required to access the train. All riders must exchange their tickets for event wristbands before boarding.
While there are no assigned seats, guests will be assigned a starting car for boarding purposes. Think of your assigned car as your starting point for the evening. Once the train departs, passengers are free to move throughout the train and enjoy the different cars, music performances, and viewing areas.
If there is a particular car you'd prefer to start in, please let a member of our staff know during check-in. The train layout, including coach and open-air gondola cars, is pictured here for reference.
Important note:
Outside food and beverage is not permitted on board. Water bottles are ok. Free water provided on board.
Schedule
Box Office Hours: 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Boarding Begins: 6:30 PM
Train Departure: 7:00 PM sharp
Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours round-trip
Departure time is firm
Return time to the depot is approximate
See you on the train!
Weekend Weather
The forecast for the weekend is calling for mostly sunny skies, daytime highs in the 80s, and overnight lows in the 50s.
The train operates rain or shine
Two train coaches are open-air gondolas
Mountain weather can change quickly
We recommend bringing:
A light jacket or raincoat
Layers for cooler evening temperatures
Closed-toe, closed-heel shoes (sandals are not recommended)
Parking
Free parking is conveniently located across the street from the Bryson City Depot at:
45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC 28713
Limited Tickets Still Available
The Great Smoky Mountains Music Train begins this weekend and tickets are still available.
If you’ve been waiting to book your ride through the Smoky Mountains, now is the time to secure your spot before the inaugural weekend sells out completely.
Where to Stay in Bryson City
Make your Music Train experience a full mountain getaway with a stay in charming Bryson City—just minutes from departure.
Whether you want to be in the heart of downtown or tucked away in the mountains, there’s a stay to match your style:
Walkable & convenient: Choose from hotels and inns just steps from shops, restaurants, and the train depot
Cozy & charming: Settle into a boutique inn or bed & breakfast for a more intimate experience
Mountain retreats: Unwind in a private cabin with scenic views, fire pits, and hot tubs
Something unique: Discover thoughtfully designed stays that blend comfort with character
With easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and nearby entrances to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s easy to turn your trip into a full weekend escape.
Book early—lodging fills up fast!