Austin Steam Train Association
Ride vintage trains through the scenic Texas Hill Country with the Austin Steam Train Association. Experience history and create memories!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most rides operate on weekends.
Austin Steam Train Association
Best Time
Most rides operate on weekends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride vintage trains through the scenic Texas Hill Country with the Austin Steam Train Association. Experience history and create memories!
"We had the time of our lives!!!!! Riding through the hill country in TEXAS! 
🎯 Book Special Events Early
Popular themed rides like holiday specials sell out quickly. Book your Austin Steam Train Association tickets in advance!
🎫 Confirm Ticket Pickup
Tickets are often 'will call' at the museum next door, not the train station. Double-check your confirmation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hill Country Flyer
Cedar Park to Burnet
A scenic 66-mile round trip through the Texas Hill Country with a stop in historic Burnet. Perfect for a day trip!
Special Themed Excursions
Various routes
From holiday rides to wine tastings and pizza nights, these events offer unique experiences for all ages.
Vintage Train Cars
Museum and onboard
Explore beautifully preserved historic train cars and learn about their past. A treat for train enthusiasts!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Popular Rides
Understand Ticket Pickup & Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Special Events Early
Popular themed rides like holiday specials sell out quickly. Book your Austin Steam Train Association tickets in advance!
🎫 Confirm Ticket Pickup
Tickets are often 'will call' at the museum next door, not the train station. Double-check your confirmation.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. Great for the Hill Country Flyer! :picnic_table:
🤓 Chat with Volunteers
The volunteer staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about trains. Ask them anything! :nerd_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Special Events Early
Popular themed rides like holiday specials sell out quickly. Book your Austin Steam Train Association tickets in advance!
🎫 Confirm Ticket Pickup
Tickets are often 'will call' at the museum next door, not the train station. Double-check your confirmation.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. Great for the Hill Country Flyer! :picnic_table:
🤓 Chat with Volunteers
The volunteer staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about trains. Ask them anything! :nerd_face:
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your camera for photos of the vintage trains and scenic Texas Hill Country views. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the cleanliness of the vintage train cars, and the overall unique experience. Many enjoy the scenic routes and the opportunity to learn about train history. However, some reviews mention confusion regarding ticket pickup and a lack of clarity on ride itineraries or entertainment, particularly for themed events.
"The people are very nice. The check in process is very easy. The cars are very clean. We enjoyed the history and the experience. I wish the views were a little more scenic but I would do it all over again.
Please support this train. It is indeed an experience."
Valerie
"Editing to add based on business response because I do not want future guests to be misinformed:
There were no details listed in the confirmation email about picking up tickets at the building next door. The email simply states “Will call” then goes on to say “pick them up at the gate before the ride” which is wrong information. Will call is inside of the “museum” area next door… it is not even attached to the train station. See my confirmation email that I received. There was also 0 information about the train ride or “repositioning.” There was no email sent out “a week in advance” about this information. Please prove me wrong. Everyone in our car was genuinely confused about the ride and upset with the “entertainment.”
There were not snacks “like” Chex mix and Arizona tea, those were the snack options. That’s all. Let me add that there is no one checking people moving from car to car, so if we didn’t purchase first class, we probably could have just walked into first class and grabbed those snacks anyways.
The pre-party could be walked through in 5 minutes. It really wasn’t a party of any kind.
Original post:
Do not recommend, this would be a waste of your money. The kids were disappointed, that’s how you know it was bad. We went for the princess express train ride. There were not that many princesses, Snow White, Merida, and Moana, Elsa, plus a fairy godmother. The “pre-party” was a small blow up slide that they got from Temu and a ball filled with balloons. There is also no one directing people to say “check in here” or where to go to before boarding. Once on the train, it is small and crowded because the spacing between the tables/chairs is not enough, especially when wearing princess dresses. The “snacks” were original Chex mix bags and Arizona tea. We were never offered the “pink lemonade” that they advertised. We rode the train about 10 minutes, it stopped on the track for about 15 then we rode it back another 10 minutes. That was the ride. There was no “itinerary” for what the train ride would be, so we did not know what to expect. The entertainment was nonexistent. No music, games, cards or anything just a coloring sheet, three crayons, and the same two princesses walked from train to train having awkward conversation. I’m not sure where these good experiences are from, but this was not it for the price of $35+ EACH! Plus, if the route was changed for whatever reason, they should lower the price. We had more fun when we missed the train once and got a tour from an employee working on the trains instead of the actual ride. The no refunds or exchanges is just a business scheme to keep money from unsatisfied customers. Although WE made the best of our time, I am disappointed that I spent my money on this and will not support this business moving forward because quality is not provided."
Samantha Moss-Purnell
"Rode the train for the Pizza & Pints on the Rails tonight and it was such a fun experience. Pizza was good from 600 degrees pizza and there were 3 beers (blonde, kolsch and IPA) from Whitestone Brewery. Fun Trivia game and VERY knowledgable volunteer staff. Learned so much about each train car and about trains. Shoutout to JARED, our volunteer in our car! He was VERY knowledgeable and so passionate about trains. After taking today's trip, it is safe to say it will not be our last ride! Can't wait to come again!"
Heidi Connolly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Austin Steam Train Association operates out of Cedar Park, Texas. The departure point and museum are located at 400 East Whitestone Boulevard, Cedar Park, TX 78613.
Cedar Park is easily accessible by car. If coming from Austin, take US-183 North. Parking is available at the departure site.
Yes, there is parking available at the departure location in Cedar Park. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially for popular rides.
Public transportation options to Cedar Park might be limited depending on your starting point. Driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the station.
Repositioning refers to the train moving between different locations or yards, which can sometimes affect the exact departure or arrival points. It's best to confirm your specific ride's details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly through the official Austin Steam Train Association website, austinsteamtrain.org. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for special events.
Tickets are typically 'will call' and need to be picked up at the museum building next door to the train station. Check your confirmation email for specific instructions as this can cause confusion.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, keep an eye on their website for any promotions. Some TikTok users mention looking for travel deals.
The Austin Steam Train Association generally has a no-refund or no-exchange policy, especially for special events. It's crucial to confirm your booking details before purchasing.
It's possible if tickets are still available, but highly discouraged for popular rides. Booking in advance is the safest way to secure your spot.
🎫 🚂 Onboard Experience
The Austin Steam Train Association features a variety of vintage train cars, including open-air observation cars and enclosed coaches. Each car has its own unique history and charm.
While some cars may be accessible, it's best to stay in your assigned car. Some reviews mention a lack of enforcement, but it's generally not permitted.
Entertainment varies by ride. Some rides feature themed characters, trivia, or historical talks from knowledgeable volunteers.
Yes, the Austin Steam Train Association offers many family-friendly rides, like the Lakeline Express and themed events, which are great for kids.
Ride durations vary. The Hill Country Flyer is a longer excursion, while others like the Lakeline Express are shorter, around an hour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Packing a picnic is a popular option, especially for longer rides.
Snack availability varies by ride. Some special events might offer specific snacks, but it's not guaranteed. Bringing your own is recommended.
For rides like the Hill Country Flyer, there's a stop in Burnet where you can grab lunch. Some special rides, like Pizza & Pints, include food.
Alcohol is generally not permitted on the train, especially for family-oriented rides. Check the specific rules for event trains like 'Pizza & Pints on the Rails'.
The Pizza & Pints ride typically features pizza from local pizzerias like 600 Degrees and craft beers from breweries like Whitestone Brewery.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air observation cars offer great views. Sitting on the right side going up and the left side coming back can provide scenic overlooks.
Yes, you can take photos inside the vintage train cars. The interiors are often well-preserved and make for interesting shots.
Yes, especially at the departure station in Cedar Park or if you can catch the train from scenic viewpoints along the route.
Lighting can be dim in some older cars, so consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance or using a flash judiciously.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The themed events, such as princess or holiday rides, are particularly popular and create lasting memories. +1 Remember to book tickets for these special events well in advance, as they are highly sought after. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is a great way to save money and cater to picky eaters.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
The knowledgeable volunteers are a treasure trove of information, eager to share details about the history and mechanics of each train. Exploring the various vintage cars, from open-air observation decks to classic enclosed coaches, is a highlight.
The austinsteamtrain.org website often provides details about the specific rolling stock used on different excursions. Don't miss the chance to ask questions and immerse yourself in the world of historic railroading. 🥂 Couples & Date Nights
Consider booking a private car for a more intimate celebration or a special occasion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Preservation Efforts
Their efforts ensure that future generations can experience the romance and adventure of train travel. These efforts are crucial for maintaining a piece of transportation history. The austinsteamtrain.org website details their mission and the importance of supporting their work. By riding their trains, visitors directly contribute to the preservation of these iconic locomotives and cars, making each journey a contribution to history.
Visitors can learn a great deal about the mechanics and history of each train car from the knowledgeable volunteers. This educational aspect adds significant value to the experience, transforming a simple train ride into an immersive historical journey.
Family Fun and Special Events
+2 They are recognized for their family-friendly offerings, making them a popular choice for outings and celebrations. Beyond regular excursions, ASTA hosts a variety of special themed events throughout the year. These can include holiday-themed rides, wine tasting tours, and even pizza and trivia nights.
For younger children, shorter rides like the Lakeline Express offer a taste of train travel without being too long.
The austinsteamtrain.org website is the best place to check for the current schedule of all rides and special events, ensuring you don't miss out on any of the magic. Scenic Routes and Destinations
+1 The route offers picturesque views of rolling hills, ranches, and natural landscapes, making it a delightful experience for nature lovers. The Hill Country Flyer typically includes a layover in Burnet, allowing passengers time to explore the town's shops and restaurants or enjoy a picnic lunch.
While the Hill Country Flyer is a signature route, ASTA also offers other excursions that may explore different parts of the Central Texas region. Always check their official schedule for the most up-to-date information on routes and destinations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit