When you take a ride with the Austin Steam Train Association, you are stepping into the past. Think cool metal walls, the rhythm of the rails, and the views and sounds shared with passengers nearly 90 years ago.
ASTA preserves the character and craftsmanship of vintage railroading while making thoughtful updates for modern comfort. Treating the train like a moving museum artifact, the team honors history at every turn. This careful balance has even recently earned them the Best of Austin 2025 Kids & Family Wild Card award.
“Each car has its own story, its own character. Whether you’re relaxing in a classic coach seat or stretching out in one of our lounge cars, you’re surrounded by pieces of living history,” says Development Manager Renee Maverick. “Our different classes of passenger cars are designed to offer something for everyone, from casual family outings to elegant adult experiences, and even special occasions like birthdays or bachelorettes.”
In lounge cars, like the Rippling Stream and Maurice Beckham, you’ll find plush seating, extra legroom, and refined style. Coach cars offer vintage charm for families and budget-savvy travelers. No matter where you sit, your journey is unforgettable.
It’s all thanks to a tight-knit team of passionate volunteers—the driving force of the nonprofit. Expertly trained and committed to safety, they do everything from serving guests on board to operating the train.
“We’re primarily volunteer-run, and they show up in every sense of the word, with skill, dedication, and a whole lot of heart,” says Maverick. “They’re also the ones who keep the train running—literally. Our volunteers work weekly in the rail yard, maintaining the train and leading restoration efforts on major projects like ASTA’s diesel locomotive 442 and Southern Pacific steam locomotive 786.”
There are plenty of ways to have fun with loved ones alongside ASTA, like the Princess Flyer, the Hero Train, and the Wedding Oak Wine Train.
But the North Pole Flyer is an especially iconic tradition that makes the holidays come alive. There’s nothing quite like meeting Santa while sipping hot cocoa on a real vintage train! This year, each car will have a dazzling Christmas theme designed to keep kids wide-eyed with wonder. The North Pole Flyer offers private compartments or full car reservations so your whole family can lean into the spirit of the season.
Every ticket purchased directly funds ASTA’s mission, helping preserve more pieces of railroad history and launch new rides like the Lotería Train and the Trivia Train. The goal is to bring generations together, which is something they achieve day in and day out.
“When you see a grandparent sharing stories with their grandchild while riding through the Hill Country, or a parent watching their child light up as the train whistle blows, you realize this is so much more than just a train ride,” says Maverick. “Every trip is a shared experience, a moment away from screens and distractions, where people of all ages can slow down and simply enjoy being together.”
ASTA extends its love for the community through the Wheels of Wonder program, partnering with organizations like Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas, Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. Through the Service Family Flyer Program, they also partner with the Veteran Tickets Foundation to serve military families.
“This is a true grassroots effort powered by people who care,” says Maverick. “It’s a beautiful thing to see so many folks come together to keep history alive and create shared joy.”
Get tickets to ride with your family and friends at: austinsteamtrain.org