Eagle Windows Austin
Austin Profiles: Austin Steam Train
One of the most unique and interesting attractions in and around the capital city are the different excursions offered by the Austin Steam Train Association. With historical propulsion engines and passenger vehicles, passengers are transported to another time and place, enjoying three levels travel style – coach class, excursion class, and the first class. A holiday favorite, the Austin Steam Train is a wonderful way to experience the slower, relaxing pace of train travel while enjoying the beauty of the Hill Country.
Those opting for coach class will experience a passenger car built by the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1920. Refurbished by ASTA volunteers, these restored relics went back into service in 1992, with a car having been converted into a concession car, where snacks and souvenirs are offered. While these cars have no air conditioning or heating, have functional windows, allowing the breeze to cool riders naturally. Each Car seats 72 passengers, and both are accessible to people with disabilities.
Excursion class passengers will be in either the Buckeye Lake Buckeye Trail or car. Two upholstered reclining passenger seats on each side of the aisle, both cars have heating and air conditioning, making them perfect for year of travel. Built in 1949 by the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad, the Buckeye Lake originally operated on daily runs between New York and Buffalo, and now operates on every Hill Country excursion train. The Buckeye Trail was built for the New York, Chicago and St. Louis (nickel) of the Railroad, and is similarly equipped.
First Class passengers enjoy their choice between two Pullman-Standard cars, circa 1950. Elegant luxury cars in mid-century include a series of compartments two-person crew bedroom, a kitchen and living rooms, and both offer heating and air conditioning. The room seats 24 people and two tables of four, and compartments can be joined for larger groups by opening a partition. The Eagle Cliff, built in 1948, has incorporated the original magazine in the tables (with original lamps) and lounge detail based on the original design. Two illuminated photographic murals in the room represent the Alamo and a monument dedicated to the Mexican hero Morales.
most popular tours on Hill Country Flyer, which after a scenic trip from Cedar Park, drops passengers outside the quaint town of Burnet for lunch and shopping. The Flyer Beltran is a three-hour round trip tour of the area, but stops for a brief look at the station historic train 1912 in Bertram. Your holiday offers include the North Pole Flyer – an annual event in December with appearances by Santa Claus and Mrs Claus, leading to families Christmas carols, serve hot chocolate and cookies, and pass commemorative gifts. Another favorite is the annual trip of the year-end celebration, and the murder of Halloween Mystery trip, and the separate Halloween trip tailored for kids.
A healthy retreat to another, more simple time, the Austin Steam Train is a wonderful way for families to experience the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
About the Author
Ki is a long time Austin resident and an investor in the Austin real estate market. His site allows visitors to search the Austin MLS with a map based interface. He also provides visitors a free mortgage calculator.
