We know that booking the perfect day out can be daunting–and the train has so many choices! We hope this FAQ can help you figure out the perfect car, route, and seats for your special day!

Please note that we are adding to this FAQ every day, so changes may be frequent.

---

1. Please note that this FAQ DOES NOT apply to our North Pole Flyer. Please visit the North Pole Flyer page for all information about that specific route and it’s policies.
2. I am ready to hop on board! How do I make a reservation? 
   Wonderful! You have three options to make reservations. First, you can see the full calendar and book tickets online HERE. Second, you can call us during business hours at 512-915-2340, or after hours and on weekends at 512-402-3830 to book by phone. Third, you can visit our Cedar Park Depot during business hours to book in person. Many rides sell out a week in advance, so we strongly suggest reservations! Please make sure to read through our Terms and Conditions prior to purchasing! Finally, please note that we have three distinct Depots- one in Cedar Park, one in Bertram, and one in Burnet. Please verify your departure location.
   
3. How can I pay?
   As of October 1, 2023, we’re a cashless organization! All major cards and tap-to-pay options are available for your convenience. Thank you for helping us create a safer and more efficient environment!
4. How will I be notified if there are changes to my ride?
   Check your email! Most changes to our rides are known well in advance. For passengers with tickets on those rides, we will email you at the email address you provided during the ticket purchasing process. (We strongly advise those email addresses be personal emails that you have access to 24/7!) We also post updates across our social media channels, make changes to the ride summaries and post signs where applicable—and time permitting! In rare, or absolute last minute emergencies, we may call passengers as well. However, your email is the main, and most important way we will reach out! Need to make changes to your contact information? You can reach us at during business hours at 512-915-2340, or after hours and on weekends at 512-402-3830.
5. I would like to book tickets for a trip, but that ride isn’t up for sale yet. What’s up?
   Thank you for your patience with us! As you may (or may not!) know, the rails we run on are owned by our friends over at Capital Metro. Every year they juggle our excursion schedule with capital improvements, safety enhancements, and some major freight traffic! The moment we get approval on a ride from Capital Metro, we will put it up for sale to the public. This approval usually comes several months in advance of a ride, but safety comes first! Thanks for understanding.
6. I would like to walk through the yard to see the train or take photos in the train yard. Can I do that?
   No! Safety is our absolute top priority– and our train yard is an active yard–and is private property. We do not allow members of the public into the train yard for tours, or for photography. If you would like to purchase tickets to ride the train, or schedule a paid photography appointment, you can do so by emailing us at reservations@austinsteamtrain.org. We do prosecute trespassers.
7. Where is the train located? Where does the train depart from?
   Please check your specific train ride for your Departure Depot! We have three distinct Depots- one in Cedar Park, one in Bertram, and one in Burnet. Please verify your departure location. We are happy to help during business hours at 512-915-2340, or after hours and on weekends at 512-402-3830. Some rides depart from our Cedar Park Depot at 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613. The Spring Break Flyer and other rides may depart from our Bertram or Burnet Depots. Departure locations of any given ride may change, so please check the event description and your tickets for your departure information. Directions can be found HERE. We will open one hour prior to the train departure, and close promptly at departure time.
8. What days does the train run?
   See you this weekend! Our train typically runs on Saturdays and Sundays only. During the week we restore our vintage train equipment, and get ready to see YOU on the weekend. Whether we run Saturday AM, Saturday PM, or mid-day Sunday changes by season. Twice a year we may also do a mid-week Spring Break Train, or Summertime Train. To see our most up-to-date schedule, please visit our Make Reservations page.
9. The trip I am looking to book is sold out. Is there a wait list?
   Oh, no! Many of our popular events do sell out several weeks in advance! We do not offer a wait list for our events, but ticket cancellations will be announced on our Facebook page.
10. Can I buy a one way ticket?
    All Aboard! All of our tickets are round trip and must board at the designated departure point for that ride. We are not able to board passengers at the mid-way point or during a layover of any given ride.
11. What ages are required to have a ticket? What about Lap Riders?
    For most rides there are two ticket types available. A child’s ticket is for ages 3-13. An adult ticket is for ages 14 and older. Children who have not yet reached their 3^rd birthday are not required to have a ticket, but are expected to ride on the lap of an adult. If you would like your child under 3 to have a seat, you must purchase them a child’s ticket. Please note that our adults-only lounges are for ages 14 and older only. Also, some rides geared towards children like the North Pole Flyer may charge a small fee for lap riders, or charge the same price for all ages. To see our most up-to-date prices and fees, please visit our Make Reservations page.
12. Are the cars air conditioned?
    Welcome to Texas! Yes! As of 2016 all of our cars are climate controlled. If you get cold easily, we do suggest a pull-over with sleeves in the Silver Pine and Buckeye Lake cars–they can get chilly!
13. What about restrooms!?
    Do not fear! With the exception of our Maurice Beckham car, all of our passenger cars have a restroom in that car. Most of our restrooms will close before we depart from each station, and as we pass through the Leander Metro station. We strongly suggest taking kiddos to the restroom prior to boarding, as the departure from the station can take 15-20 minutes. The Silver Pine car has a separate men’s and women’s restroom, and is the only car setup in that manner. The restrooms in the Nambe (adults-only) , Buckeye Lake, and New Braunfels may stay open at most times due to their advanced toilet systems. Please note that our trains are historic in nature, so the restrooms are normally small (not handicap accessible), and may not have running water. Hand sanitizer is provided in those without water. Our Depot at Burnet has restrooms courtesy of the City of Burnet.
14. Is the train wheelchair accessible?
    Welcome aboard! While the historic construction and nature of our railroad equipment limits accessibility in some areas, we will attempt to provide accommodations for all passengers. We have two cars that allow for wheelchair seating- the Buckeye Trail (seats W1, W2, W3 and W4) and the Eagle Cliff (seats 1 and 13). (Please note that one or both cars may be in the process of being restored, and may not be available on a specific weekend.) Other cars will not be accessible by wheelchair. A wheelchair lift is available that can accommodate most wheelchairs and motorized chairs and lift these chairs and occupants from the boarding platform to the entry doors for the railroad cars. Entry doors maximum width is 27″. The wheelchair lift can also be made available for patrons who may have trouble with stairs when boarding the train. If you would like to use a wheelchair to board, but would like to be seated in a standard seat while you ride, you are welcome to choose any seat on the train, and we can store a collapsible wheelchair for you while you ride. Please keep in mind that the hallways are narrow- and each car is different, so you will need to collapse the wheelchair after boarding, and be guided to your seat without use of the wheelchair. Thank you in advance for your patience with us as we do our best to accommodate you!
15. Are the restrooms wheelchair accessible?
    The joys of historic train travel! Unfortunately, the restrooms on board were built with severe space restrictions in the 50s and 60s, so they are not wheelchair accessible. Accessible restrooms are available at the Cedar Park Depot prior to your departure, and during your layover at the Bertram or Burnet Depot—if the ride you chose has a stop.
16. I am boarding with a wheelchair/walker/ stroller. Can these be stored on board?
    Absolutely! We will do our best to store any collapsible wheelchairs, walkers, or single strollers. Items of these types must collapse down to less than 27 inches. Please keep in mind that storage space on board is limited, and priority will be given to wheelchairs and walkers. The coach cars (Silver Pine, Buckeye Trail, Buckeye Lake) have overhead storage for your convenience. In the case that the storage spaces are full, you may be asked to store your item at your feet where space is limited. Please also note that the wheelchair lift can be made available for patrons who may have trouble with stairs when boarding the train. Entry doors maximum width is 27″.
17. I might need assistance with boarding! What should I do?
    We have an extra hand! Whatever your reason for needing some assistance—the answer is “Yes!” Just let us know at the Depot or Boarding Gate that you need some backup and how we can best assist. The wheelchair lift can be made available for patrons who may have trouble with stairs—or just need an extra hand– when boarding the train. Entry doors maximum width is 27″. Still nervous? Give us a call during business hours at 512-915-2340, or after hours and on weekends at 512-402-3830 or email us at reservations@austinsteamtrain.org and we can pre-book your assistance!
18. I already have tickets- when should I arrive at the station?
    All aboard! Thank you for your support! We ask all passengers to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your departure time to get parked and pick up your tickets. The train begins backing up for departure 10 minutes prior to your departure time. Out of consideration for other passengers, the train departure cannot be held for passengers who are arriving late. Please note that we have three distinct Depots- one in Cedar Park, one in Bertram, and one in Burnet. Please verify your departure location. We are happy to help during business hours at 512-915-2340, or after hours and on weekends at 512-402-3830.
19. How do I pick up my tickets?
    Choo choo! Our train station will open one hour prior to your departure. When you arrive at the station, please step inside to the Will Call Tickets pick up podium. Our Ticket Assistant will ask you for your last name, and then hand your tickets to you to board. Please keep your confirmation handy- either printed or electronic- in case we have questions about your reservation. Sorry, we are not able to give you your tickets prior to this one hour window. Please note that we have three distinct Depots- one in Cedar Park, one in Bertram, and one in Burnet. Please verify your departure location. We are happy to help at 512-402-3830.
20. May I play music? May my kids play electronic games?
    Bring your gear! Phones and electronic games are welcome on the train, but we do require that those items be silenced, or used with headphones only—as a courtesy to the other passengers on the train. There is no wi-fi on the train.
21. Can I smoke on the train?
    Nope! Out of respect for other passengers, and for the safety of our equipment, there is no smoking or vaping anywhere on the train at any time. Please note that in the event of an extended delay- for any reason- we will not be able to allow passengers to deboard the train to smoke. Deboarding has strict safety guidelines that cannot be compromised.
22. Can I bring my own food and snacks?
    Absolutely! Your snacks, non-alcoholic drinks and formula are welcome on the train.  Open drink containers are not allowed on special event trains. Please keep in mind that our vintage cars may have little storage space, so your snack and drink containers need to be small and handheld. You should expect those items to be stored by your feet in most cars. Please, no coolers with wheels, or larger than 50 quart. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our passengers, please note that all persons, bags, parcels, clothing, coolers and other items may be subject to screening/ security checks at the boarding gate, and on board the train. We reserve the right to not allow any bag or other item on to the train as we consider appropriate. Entry doors maximum width is 27″.
23. Can I purchase drinks and snacks on board the train?
    New to the Cedar Park! Our state-of-the-art concession car–the Cedar Park— completed restoration in May of 2018, so you can now purchase drinks, snacks and merchandise while on board the train. Please note that there may be some periods of time during the ride (especially on special events) that we will ask you to stay in your seats–for safety reasons. Thanks in advance for being patient with our volunteer car attendants as they work to keep you safe. Also, please note that passengers are not able to access the concession car unless you have a ticket, and have boarded the train for your ride. This car is not open to the general public.
24. Can I bring my beer and wine on board?
    Nope! We do not allow personal alcoholic beverages to be brought on ANY train ride. Train rides do not have alcohol service unless explicitly mentioned in the event summary – such as the Beer Train, Wine Train, or Signature Cocktail Series. Also, please note that in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our passengers, all persons, bags, parcels, clothing, coolers and other items may be subject to screening/ security checks at the boarding gate, and on board the train. We reserve the right to not allow any bag or other item on to the train as we consider appropriate. Also, open drink containers are not allowed on special event trains.
25. Can I purchase items at the office/station?
    Here are the details! A limited selection of merchandise may be available to purchase at the Cedar Park Depot prior to your departure, but a much larger selection (including snacks and drinks) are available in our brand new concession car (the Cedar Park!) when you ride the train. All Depots are closed when you return from your train trip. Also, please note that passengers are not able to access the concession car unless you have a ticket, and have boarded the train for your ride. This car is not open to the general public. Finally, no items are for sale in the Bertram or Burnet Depots.**We’re a cashless organization! All major cards and tap-to-pay options are available for your convenience. Thank you for helping us create a safer and more efficient environment.**
26. I am celebrating a special occasion. Can I put up decorations?
    Congratulations/happy birthday/mazel tov! Placing items on your tables or chairs is fine, but please note that we do not allow anything to be affixed to any surface of our train. That means no tape, glue, command strips, string, etc may be used to attach any items on absolutely any surface. Our vintage train equipment thanks you! Also, any party items you use should not interfere with the enjoyment of the ride by your fellow passengers. If you would like to book a private car charter, or private compartment for your event, you can contact us during business hours at 512-915-2340 for rates and availability. Entry doors maximum width is 27″.
27. For my celebration can I bring cake?
    Adventures on a moving train! For your safety, we ask that all food that is brought on the train be single serving like brownies or cupcakes. Please do not bring anything full sized like a pie or cake that needs to be cut or requires serving utensils. We are also not able to cut, refrigerate or store these items on your behalf. Thank you for understanding! Please, no coolers with wheels, or larger than 50 quart.
28. Can I walk between the cars during the ride?
    Yes! Most of our standard rides allow for plenty of time for you to explore our other vintage cars, visit the concession car, and enjoy the open-air vestibules between cars. We just ask that you be courteous when visiting other cars, and follow instructions from your Car Attendant regarding these visits. Some special events, like the North Pole Flyer, will have designated times for you to leave your seat. This is done to control the flow of traffic on the train, especially around story time and visits from Santa.
29. Where does the train go?
    We have three main routes that our train follows. The train departs from either our Cedar Park, Bertram or Burnet Depot and travels to either Bertram or Burnet. The train then returns to the Depot it departed from. Please note that each route is unique, so please check your specific event information for the exact route. We run many different special events, so please allow us to explain a little…
30. Where does the Bertram Flyer go? How long is the ride?
    Our trip from Cedar Park to Bertram is typically called the Bertram Flyer. This route is 44 miles round trip, and normally is a 3 hour round trip with a 15 minute stop in Bertram at our Historic Bertram Depot. This 15 minute stop allows passengers to tour the depot, take some pictures and stretch your legs! This route usually runs on Sundays March- May and then runs on Saturdays June-August. This route is popular with families with small children (and shorter attention spans), or people looking for a quick getaway. It is normally the shortest route we offer. Many of our special events like the North Pole Flyer, Princess Flyer and Beer Train take the Bertram Flyer route, but each train is different. Please visit https://www.austinsteamtrain.org/make-reservations/ to see the specifics on the route you would like to ride.
31. Where does the Hill Country Flyer go? How long is the ride?
    Our trip from Cedar Park to Burnet is typically called the Hill Country Flyer. This trip is our most popular—and longest running route. This day trip is 66 miles round trip, and normally takes 6-6.5 hours round trip. It will take us two hours to get from Cedar Park to Burnet, then we will drop you off for two hours in Burnet for lunch and shopping on your own. Then we will take the two hour ride back to Cedar Park. This route usually runs on Saturdays from January to May, and then September to mid-November. This route goes along the same line as the Bertram Flyer, so you will see the Bertram Depot on our way to Burnet, but we will not stop at the Depot. This route is popular with all ages, but can be a long trip for younger kiddos. Games, coloring activities and handheld devices (with ear phones) are welcome on board the train. We have few special events that follow the Hill Country Flyer route, but those that do (Bluebonnet Festival Flyer, Burnet County Fair Flyer, Valentine’s Day Flyer) may have different departure times or extended layovers. Please visit our Make Reservations page to see the specifics on the route you would like to ride.
32. What about trips to Austin?
    Our trip from Cedar Park to Austin was previously called the Capital City Express. This rare trip is currently on hiatus is not planned for the current year.
33. What do I see on the ride?
    As history would have it, our rail line from Austin to Burnet was built in 1882 as the first rail line to tap the mineral-rich heart of the Hill Country. As with most lines, they were laid to provide an industrial lifeline to the quarries, ranches, and little towns of this scenic, but isolated corner of Texas. Our route is much like a traditional industrial line where you will see a mix of foliage, small towns, businesses, quarries, rural homes and highway intersections. A few highlights include: Short Creek Canyon, the wooden trestle bridge at the South San Gabriel River, huge blocks of cut granite, the Duffy Shamrock communications mast, the Bertram Depot, and the sidings and quarry at Summit—more than 500 feet above Cedar Park. You will receive a “Welcome Aboard” brochure on board the train to help catch these milestones!
34. Are guns allowed on the train?
    No firearms are permitted on ASTA Property, including ASTA trains, yard facilities or offices; either leased or owned. This includes concealed and openly carried firearms, loaded and unloaded, carried on a person, in a vehicle or otherwise on ASTA Property.  Required signs are posted at ASTA office and boarding gates.
35. Can I get a refund or exchange my tickets?
    Important! Because of our unique venue and events, we do not offer refunds. Exchanges, discounts, and cancellations have strict policies. Tickets for the North Pole Flyer are not eligible for refund or exchange. We strongly suggest reading through our Terms and Conditions to get a full understanding prior to purchasing.
36. Does the train run in rain?
    Rain or Shine! The train can run in most inclement weather conditions and we cannot accommodate refunds or exchanges due to weather, difficult driving conditions, or traffic. Please take extra care when you make your reservation. In the event the train is unable to operate you will be notified via email.
37. What is the difference in the cars or classes of service?
    Part of our mission is restoring and preserving vintage train equipment, so each of our cars are unique, and each class has something different to offer! We have two different types of seating: coach-style and lounge-style. Want to skip right to the pictures? Check out The Train page! You can read about each class and car below…
38. What is Excursion Coach?
    Excursion Coach is the class level used to identify three of our coach-style cars. They are the New Braunfels, Buckeye Lake, and Buckeye Trail. Each of those cars are setup similar to a bus or an airplane- with two seats on either side of a center aisle. Our coach cars are seats only- there are no tables in coach. These cars are known for being our most budget-friendly choice on the train. They also feature large picture windows for a great panoramic view as you travel down the rails. These cars are large- seating between 60 and 74 people- so the energy and noise level may be high! If you want the experience of historic train travel for a great price—we recommend Excursion Coach.
39. What is First Class Coach?
    First Class Coach is used to identify our Silver Pine coach-style car. This car is similar to the Excursion Coach cars, but you will have wider seats, more leg room, and a separate men’s and women’s restroom. Our coach cars are seats only- there are no tables in coach. This car may also have complimentary fruit and bottled water on standard rides. This car is known for being a more intimate coach-style car—seating only 46 people– while still having large windows and a panoramic view. If you want to ride coach style, but don’t mind paying for a little extra comfort—we recommend First Class Coach.
40. What is First Class Lounge?
    First Class Lounge is used to identify two of our lounge-style cars. They are the Maurice Beckham and Eagle Cliff. Each of our lounge cars are unique with different seating setups! The Maurice Beckham has tables and chairs, and the Eagle Cliff has mixed seating- some booths and tables and some lounge chairs and tray tables. These cars may also have complimentary drinks (water, juice, hot tea and coffee) as well as pastries and fruit on standard rides. Lounge cars have a main lounge, and some private compartment space to better control your environment! If you want a table for activities and drinks, or are looking for a more intimate experience—we recommend First Class Lounge.
41. What is Adults-Only First Class Lounge?
    Adults-Only First Class Lounge is used to identify two of our lounge-style cars that are for adults 14 and older only. They are the Rippling Stream and Nambe. The Rippling Stream has booth and table seating in the main lounge, and mixed seating in the private compartments (tables and chairs, or lounge chairs with a small table). The Nambe is chair and table seating only. These cars may also have complimentary drinks (water, juice, hot tea and coffee) as well as pastries and fruit on standard rides. Both of these lounges are recently restored, and typically sell out a week in advance. For some special events, these cars may be used to serve all ages. Please review the event summary when you are buying tickets to see our event notice alerting you to that fact! The Rippling Stream is a smaller lounge car, offering a more quiet and relaxing experience, while the Nambe is the largest of our lounge cars and tends to be cheery and full of conversation among passengers. If you want an adults-only experience with tables and excellent customer service—we recommend Adults-Only First Class Lounge.
42. Violations of the rules, policies, and/or Crew member instructions may result in removal from the train.

Still a little overwhelmed? We are happy to help by phone during business hours at 512-915-2340, or after hours and on weekends at 512-402-3830.