Runaway Train: The Only Escape Room Inside a Real Train Car

Trapped inside an armored transport rail car, you're riding on a runaway train bound for destruction. Your only chance is to make it through the train and jump before it's too late.

This isn't a simulation. You're inside an actual vintage train car at the Chattanooga Choo Choo — and the clock is ticking.

The Only Escape Room of Its Kind

Runaway Train is one of a kind, taking place on an actual train car at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo. With immersive visuals and sounds, this experience borderlines on a simulation as you're boarded onto an unstoppable locomotive. We converted a vintage armored rail car into a fully immersive escape experience that simply can't be replicated anywhere else.

From the moment you step aboard, you're not in an escape room — you're on a train. The narrow corridors, the period-accurate details, the rumble of the tracks beneath your feet. It's an experience that simply can't be replicated in a standard room.

Why Chattanooga?

The Chattanooga Choo Choo isn't just a historic landmark — it's the reason the city is famous. The song "Chattanooga Choo Choo" by Glenn Miller became the first gold record in history, and the terminal building is an icon of American railroad history.

Building Runaway Train here wasn't just a creative decision; it was a tribute to the city's heritage. When you play, you're stepping into a piece of Chattanooga history.

The Story

Six months ago, you inadvertently got mixed up with the mob. In exchange for amnesty and a new identity, you agreed to testify against one of the most powerful crime bosses in the United States — Joseph Guarino. Your life has been in tremendous danger ever since. You and your loved ones were placed into the Witness Protection program and have been in hiding.

Now it's time to testify. The U.S. Marshals have determined the safest way to transport you to the court hearing is via an old armored cargo train. Nobody will know your whereabouts, and after the hour-long ride to Eagleton City, you'll help put the crime boss behind bars for good.

All information regarding your case must be guarded carefully — not even you can know the route. To ensure your safety, you're blindfolded as you board. Secretly stowed away in this inconspicuous cargo train, you patiently wait to arrive at Eagleton City.

But unbeknownst to you and your fellow passengers, this train was never meant to make it to the end of the line. Your cover has been blown. Your identities revealed. With the doors locked and the train's speed rising, can you escape off this runaway train before it's too late?

What Makes It Special

Authentic Train Car

This isn't a room decorated to look like a train. You're inside an actual vintage armored rail car, preserved and converted into an escape experience. The cramped corridors, the authentic fixtures, the weight of history — it all adds to the immersion.

Multi-Sensory Experience

We captured real footage from the Tennessee Valley Railroad to create visuals that make you feel like you're actually moving. Combined with realistic sound design and mechanical effects, Runaway Train tricks your brain into believing the stakes are real.

Local Craftsmanship

Everything was built by Chattanooga makers:

• Props designed and painted by our in-house team
• Fabrication at Chatt*Lab MakerSpace
• Custom electronics and welding by local artisans
• Video footage captured on the Tennessee Valley Railroad

Perfect for Groups & Events

Runaway Train accommodates 2-8 players and is perfect for:

• Family outings: All ages can participate (kids love the train setting)
• Corporate team building: A unique venue your team will remember
• Bachelor/bachelorette parties: Something different before hitting the Choo Choo bars
• Tourists: Combine with a tour of the historic Choo Choo complex

Visiting the Chattanooga Choo Choo

The Choo Choo complex has plenty to explore before or after your escape:

• Historic Terminal Station: The gorgeous domed lobby is worth seeing
• Restaurants & bars: Several on-site options
• Hotel: Stay overnight in a converted train car
• Gardens & grounds: Beautiful spots for photos

The complex is about 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, with free parking on-site.

Tips for Your Runaway Train Adventure

• Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be moving through the train car.
• Arrive 15 minutes early. You'll need time for check-in and the pre-game briefing.
• Work together. The train is narrow — communication is key.
• Embrace the experience. Let yourself get immersed in the story.

Book Your Runaway Train Adventure

There's nothing else like this in Tennessee — or anywhere in the country. If you're visiting Chattanooga, Runaway Train is a must-do experience that combines the city's railroad heritage with heart-pounding escape room adventure.

Book Runaway Train at the Chattanooga Choo Choo and experience the only escape room of its kind.