Texas

explore like never before

Get Custom Travel guides packed with local tips
Trip Ideas|Unique Trips

The Magical Polar Express Train Ride In Austin Everyone Should Experience At Least Once

Austin Steam Train's North Pole Flyer offers a festive 2.5-hour holiday train ride filled with hot cocoa, cookies, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Published Nov 18, 2016

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

Austin always lights up around the holidays. While we may not get snow, there's no shortage of winter wonderland festivities. Kids aged one to 92 will beam with joy at this merry treat. Everyone in Austin should experience this magical polar express train ride at least once.

We wrote our original article in 2016, but we've updated it to reflect all the details for 2018!

The Austin Steam Train's North Pole Flyer is a family favorite.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

This 2.5 hour excursion will make you feel merry and bright.

advertisement
alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

Sip on hot cocoa and munch on Santa's favorite treat-- chocolate chip cookies!

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

Mrs. Claus spreads holiday cheer to everyone on board the train.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

Young ones will listen in awe as they hear the story of the train's special Christmas history.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

It wouldn't be Christmas without the star of the show, Santa!

advertisement
alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

Gifts, cookies, and winter magic flow through the entire train.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

You won't want to miss this unique North Pole flyer.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

This year's North Pole Flyer begins on November 17th, 2018 and ends on December 9th, 2018. This 2.5 hour train ride circles from Cedar Park to Betram Texas.

To learn more about the Austin Steam Train's holiday tradition, visit austinsteamtrain.org.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Trip Ideas|Unique Trips

The Longest Float Trip Near Austin Will Bring Your Summer Tubing Dreams To Life

Updated Jul 11, 2024

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

If you’ve experienced an Austin summer, you know the best way to beat the scorching heat is to hit the water. Luckily, this city is surrounded by refreshing rivers, shady trees, and friendly faces. An always fun summer adventure is to take a road trip to New Braunfels and lazily lounge on the Guadalupe River near Austin. You could easily spend hours on this Guadalupe River tubing adventure on the glistening water. We believe it’s one of the best floats in Texas, that will bring your tubing near Austin dreams to life.

advertisement

The Guadalupe River is widely considered to be the most beautiful Texas river. The limestone bluffs shimmer in the sunlight, and the vibrant trees cast a green hue on the water.

alt
Maria Rivera/Google

Bring your best friends, a cooler full of beverages, and get ready for an amazing adventure. Several tube rental shops are located around the river, so it's never been easier to plan an exciting outing.

alt
Thrill Seeker 360/TripAdvisor

The float has both tranquil waters and exhilarating rapids, so you'll never be bored.

alt
Shane W./TripAdvisor

There are several ways to experience this blissful oasis.

alt
management/TripAdvisor

Float the Horseshoe for a breezy two hour excursion. If you're looking to make a full day out of it, continue past the first river crossing and soak up the sights. The longest float takes between five and six hours.

alt
management/TripAdvisor

It's not summer in Texas until you've floated the river. Venture out to New Braunfels and soak up the sun!

alt
Carlisle T/TripAdvisor

For more information to help plan your trip for this Guadalupe River Tubing adventure, be sure to check out the Visit New Braunfels Texas website.

advertisement

Of course, this isn't the only place to go tubing near Austin. This all-day float trip will make your summer complete.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/texas/austin/san-marcos-river-float-austin/

What's your favorite place for river tubing near Austin? Any hidden gems in the Lone Star State you'd like to share? Tell us about them in the comments below... we are always up for a good float trip here at Only In Austin!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Trip Ideas|Unique Trips

This Princess-Themed Train Ride In Austin Is A Fairy Tale Come To Life

The Austin Steam Train's Princess Flyer offers a magical, princess-themed train ride with interactive activities and scenic views.

Published Jul 12, 2019

Written by 

Elisa Regulski

All aboard! The Austin Steam Train has another whimsical adventure for you. During their Princess Flyer, guests can interact with royalty and take photos with classic characters. You and your family will love this magical excursion. This princess-themed train ride in Austin is a fairy tale come to life.

advertisement

Gather up the family and embark on a colorful journey.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

The Austin Steam Train Association is known for crafting one-of-a-kind events. Hop aboard this historic locomotive and prepare to be amazed.

You never know who you'll meet on the Princess Flyer.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

Giddy smiles and excitement are everywhere you turn. Children are always excited to meet their favorite characters in real life.

Young ones have loads of fun playing games with their favorite princesses.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

After they've posed for photos, the princesses will lead kiddos in games and activities.

Meanwhile, adults can relax in the authentic railroad car.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

These luxurious spaces have recently been renovated, but they still have the same historic charm. You'll feel like you escaped back to the '30s and '40s when you sit back in this incredible steam train.

advertisement

The Princess Flyer showcases all of the Hill Country's magnificent beauty.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

Look out the window for picturesque views. The Princess Flyer rides along the South San Gabriel River and ends at the incredible Bertram Depot. This historic structure dates all the way back to 1912!

Want to learn more about Bertram's train station? Read our feature article here.

There's also a superhero-themed train ride that's perfect for young adventure-seekers.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

The Superhero Train takes place on August 10th and leaves the station at 10 a.m. This is one experience you won't want to miss.

Make magical memories with the Austin Steam Train Association.

alt
Austin Steam Train/Facebook

The Princess Flyer takes place July 20th at 10 a.m. Tickets begin at $38. Address: 401 East Whitestone Boulevard Suite C-100, Cedar Park, TX, 78613. To learn more, visit The Austin Steam Train's website or Facebook page.

In addition to kid-friendly adventures, The Austin Steam Train hosts Hill Country Flyers and sunset rides. Which one are you most excited about?

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Attractions
Antiques Shops

This Massive Antique Mall in Missouri Has Its Very Own Cafe

by Alana Fravell
on Nov 7
alt
Travel Goods
Shopping Guides

The 18 Best Travel Gifts You Can Get From Walmart

by Jasmine Vieau
on Nov 7
alt
Nature
Hiking

Hike This Trail in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park for an Unforgettable Adventure

by Courtnie Erickson
on Nov 7
alt
Stays
Camping

The Amazing Campground in Idaho We Want to Visit All-Year Round

by Andrea Verschuyl
on Nov 7
alt
Nature
Hiking

Hike More Than 1,800 Feet in Elevation in Alaska for an Unforgettable Adventure

by Courtnie Erickson
on Nov 7
alt