Kyle Train Depot

Kyle Railroad Depot and Heritage Center

The eye-catching metamorphosis of the historic Kyle Train Depot is now complete.

Following a multi-year renovation, the Kyle Railroad Depot and Heritage Center held its grand opening in late September 2016. The building houses a museum with displays showing the history of the Kyle Station, under the direction of the Hays County Historical Commission.

A video portraying the founding of the city runs in the main waiting room. Overhead, an audio system plays on a loop with sounds depicting a train station back in the olden days. Announcements of trains boarding and arriving, calling passengers for messages and the sound of telegraphs being sent and received all contribute to the authentic feel of the heritage center. Vintage pieces of furniture and equipment are on display, providing a backdrop of history for guests as they roam the rooms.

Hays County Historical Commission’s Chairwoman, Kate Johnson, said the heritage center was a labor of love.

"So many communities have lost their depots forever. Kyle is so fortunate to have this important link to its past," she said.

The depot restoration was largely funded by private donations and grants. The project was awarded a $25,000 grant from LCRA and has received generous donations from the Burdine Johnson Foundation, Soliref Inc., the Gregg family and numerous individual donors. Kyle voters passed a bond for $250,000 toward the renovation. That bond has been paid in full using money collected through the city's Hotel Occupancy Tax, which can only be utilized for projects promoting local tourism such as the historic depot. 

Hours and Events:

The Hays County Historical Commission will operate the depot from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Saturday. The Kyle Railroad Depot and Heritage Center will also be available for tours and school field trips by appointment.

In addition, several special events are held at the depot throughout the year, including at Easter, Halloween, Christmas. The Kyle Library also hosts readings, murder mysteries and more at the depot. Visit the depot Facebook page for current event info.

Admission is free.