AUSTIN (KXAN) — Saturday marked a full year since the Zilker Eagle miniature train started rolling through Zilker Park.
The train has provided rides to more than 100,000 passengers since it opened last June, returning after a five-year hiatus and several delays in its reopening plan.
The mini-train initially opened in 1961 and has provided rides to parkgoers under the names Zilker Eagle and Zilker Zephyr until it closed in May 2019 due to erosion under and around the tracks near Lady Bird Lake, according to the City of Austin.
The Austin Parks Foundation hosted an anniversary celebration for the Zilker Eagle on Saturday, offering free rides, complimentary popsicles, and art activities.
“It is an honor to have brought back such an iconic piece of Zilker Park history,” said Colin Wallis, CEO of Austin Parks Foundation. “This train represents the heart of what makes Austin special – bringing communities together and creating joy for families from our own neighborhoods and for visitors from across the globe.”
Rides are free all day Saturday to mark the occasion.
The Zilker Eagle operates daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Train Depot located at 2131 William Barton Drive.