Old Dixie Depot logo

Coming Soon. Sign up for emails to stay updated.

Before You Arrive

Questions Answered

Everything you need to know before your stay — from check-in to checkout, pets to parking.

Common Questions

Questions Answered

Check-in is self-guided and unhurried. We'll send everything you need the morning of your arrival.

· from the host
Still have questions? Get in touch

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM and checkout is by 11:00 AM. Early check-in or late checkout may be available depending on the calendar — just ask when you book and we'll do our best to accommodate.

· check-in: 3 pm · checkout: 11 am

Check-in is fully self-guided. You'll receive a detailed arrival message the morning of your stay with door code, parking instructions, and a brief orientation to the car. No need to coordinate schedules — arrive when you're ready after 3:00 PM.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome with prior notice. We ask that pets stay off the upholstered berths and original seating, and that you bring their bedding. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times while on the property and are not permitted to roam free. A small pet fee applies. Please mention your dog when booking so we can confirm availability.

· pet fee applies · prior notice required

Dedicated parking is available directly beside the car — no walking required. The gravel lot accommodates up to two vehicles. Larger vehicles and trailers are welcome; just let us know in advance so we can ensure the space is clear.

· up to 2 vehicles · trailers welcome with notice

Each car is fully equipped for a comfortable stay: a kitchenette with cookware, a restored observation deck, a private bathroom with shower, climate control, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Linens, towels, and a starter supply of coffee and pantry staples are provided. Sleeping arrangements vary by car — check each car's detail page for specifics.

Yes. The car has both heating and air conditioning, making it comfortable in every Tennessee season. Summer evenings on the observation deck are particularly pleasant, and the car stays warm and cozy through winter.

Cancellations made 14 or more days before arrival receive a full refund. Cancellations within 7–13 days receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 6 days of arrival are non-refundable. We recommend travel insurance for unexpected circumstances.

· 14+ days: full refund · 7–13 days: 50% · under 7 days: no refund

The cars are a wonderful experience for older children and teenagers who appreciate history. We know children love trains — and that enthusiasm is part of what makes this place special. That said, these are authentic, century-old railcars being carefully preserved for generations to come, so we ask that little ones be supervised closely and treated with the same care and respect as the history they represent. For very young children, please note that the observation decks have open railings and some original fixtures are at low heights. We leave the decision to parents' judgment and are happy to answer specific questions.

The railroad tracks are strictly off-limits to all guests — no exceptions. The CNO & TP corridor is active, working railroad property, and trespassing is both dangerous and illegal. All guests are required to sign a waiver prior to booking and will be held fully accountable for any violations, including fines. The good news is you don't need to set foot on the tracks to feel the magic — the views from the property are spectacular, and there is nothing quite like watching a freight train roll through from the comfort of your deck. We love the railroad and ask that all guests respect it the same way we do.

· waiver required · tracks are active railroad property