Plans for a new mini train in Zilker Park are chugging right along! Hopping aboard a kiddie train for a ride through the park has been long-time favorite activity for families in Austin since 1961. When the beloved Zilker Zephyr went out of commission in 2019, Austin Parks Foundation was able to step in and make plans for a brand new train to to debut in the fall of 2021.

In an exciting announcement on April 23, Austin Parks Foundation has unveiled the new name and colorful fresh look for the train. Introducing… the new Zilker Eagle!

Last fall, APF invited Austinites to participate in the naming of the new train, and after multiple rounds and over 750 name suggestions, the Zilker Eagle was chosen by the community. Some Austinites might recall that the very first train to ride the tracks in Zilker Park was actually called the Eagle, delighting kids from 1961 to 1996. With a sentimental nod to the past, the future rendition of the Zilker Eagle will provide cherished experiences and lasting memories for thousands of local children to come.

On the 60th anniversary of the Zilker train, this family attraction is slated to return this fall, bringing such a fun activity to a whole new era. We can’t wait!

Here’s what we can expect when it rides into the park this fall…

• The Zilker train will be an all-electric mini-train designed to look like a streamlined passenger train, similar to the Texas Eagle of the Missouri Pacific Railroad that came through Austin in the 1940s and 50s. The new train will be battery-operated, as opposed to a diesel or gas powered engine, providing a more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly train system.

 

• The improvements will include adjustments to make the train and depot area more ADA accessible with multiple wheelchair accessible passenger coaches creating an inclusive experience for people of all abilities.

 

• The new look for the train, designed by local agency Frank & Victor, features a colorful tie-dye design in homage to “Keep Austin Weird,” representing the melting pot of Austin’s residents and culture. The design echoes the old Austin adage that everyone is welcome.

 

• CapMetro will be an integral part of the renovations of the train depot, creating a unique and engaging experience the moment visitors arrive at the train site.

 

• Passengers can expect a fun and creative art installation in the underground train tunnel, sponsored by Kendra Scott.

 

• Austin Parks Foundation is committed to ensuring people from all over Austin can ride the new train regardless of their ability to pay. They will institute community hours as part of the new experience, and as part of Kendra Scott’s sponsorship, so that nonprofit organizations working with under-represented communities will have the chance to enjoy the train.

 

• Austin Parks Foundation will operate the train with proceeds benefiting Zilker Park.

 

Stay on track with train updates! 

For additional updates and announcements on the Zilker Eagle, please visit www.zilkertrain.org and follow on social media @zilkereagle.