Rooted in Rail

Old Dixie Depot is not a hotel. It is not a cabin. It is four authentic historic rail cars -- each with its own name, its own era, and its own story -- sitting trackside on the CNO & TP rail line in the Tennessee hills, waiting for you to climb aboard. If you are a rail fan, this place was built for you. If you are not, you will be by the time you leave.

Interior of a restored historic rail car at Old Dixie Depot — warm wood paneling and period fixtures

The Cars

Train Cars Worth Saving

From a 1913 Norfolk and Southern caboose to a 1953 Amtrak BUDD car, every car at the Depot is a piece of American railroad history that was headed for the scrap yard. We found them, restored them, and gave them a second life -- not as museum pieces, but as places you can actually stay.

The Cars4 authentic rail cars — each from a different era, each with its own name and story.

The HistoryNothing invented. Everything preserved. Sleep inside over 100 years of American railroading.

The CommunityA shared pavilion, a fire pit, and events — BBQs, live music, and more — for guests who want to gather.

See the Fleet

Your Arrival

The Transfer Caboose

Every stay at Old Dixie Depot begins the same way — at the Transfer Caboose. This is your hotel lobby. Step inside, pick up the keys to your car, and take a moment to settle in. Browse the railroad memorabilia, pour yourself a drink, and if something catches your eye, take a piece of the Depot home with you — t-shirts, hats, and a few things you won't find anywhere else.

Check-InCollect your keys and get oriented. The caboose crew will point you to your car and answer any questions before you head out.

Memorabilia & DrinksOriginal railroad artifacts, vintage signage, and a drink to start your stay. The caboose is worth a slow look around.

Depot ShopT-shirts, hats, and a small selection of goods — all made for people who appreciate the real thing.

The Community

More Than a Place to Sleep

The Depot is built around community. A shared pavilion and fire pit sit at the heart of the property -- a gathering place for guests to meet, share a meal, and watch the trains roll through. We are planning regular events including backyard BBQs, live music nights, and seasonal gatherings that bring the whole Depot to life. Whether you come for a quiet escape or to be part of something bigger, there is always something happening on the rails.

Book Your Stay

The Numbers