New York Transit Museum

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 60 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The New York Transit Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of public transportation in New York City. Located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, the museum features exhibits that showcase the evolution of transportation systems in the city, including trains, buses, trolleys, and ferries. Visitors can explore vintage subway cars, check out historic artifacts, and even ride on a restored 1930s subway car. The museum also offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to simulate driving a subway train or bus. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum regularly hosts special exhibitions, lectures, and workshops that delve deeper into specific aspects of transportation history.

99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Get Directions

New York Transit Museum Videos

How is the spirit of a city captured in the art, architecture, and design of its subway system? Using his extensive travels across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, author David Seltzer chronicled 22 different cities —each with unique artistic and historical identities. Join Seltzer as he recalls highlights from his global subterranean travels in his new book, Transit Tourism: The Iconic Art and Design of 22 Subway Systems around the World. Purchase the book at the New York Transit Museum Store at: https://www.nytransitmuseumstore.com/new/book-transit-tourism-world.html For more upcoming program, check out the New York Transit Museum program calendar. https://www.nytransitmuseum.org/programs

#TodayinHistory: #OnThisDay in 2022, the last of the R32s made a ceremonial final ride in the #NYCsubway. In service for a whopping 58 years, the R32s are recognizable to generations of New Yorkers. Known as the “Brightliners” due to their shiny and ribbed silver appearance, they were a familiar sight on IND and BMT lines. R32s were manufactured by the Budd Company from 1964 to 1965. This #NYTMCollection subway car model was provided to the Transit Authority to demonstrate the look of the cars when they were ordered. See this R32 model in our “The Subway Is…” exhibit, now on view at the #NYTransitMuseum in Downtown Brooklyn. We are open Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm. Plan your visit at nytransitmuseum.org. Do you remember the R32s?

🔍 When this souvenir brochure from the ERA’s 1975 fan trip on the South Brooklyn Railway arrived in our archive, we had a feeling Jeff might know something about it. For this month's #WhatsNewInTheArchive, Elise is joined by a special guest: our own Jeff Erlitz. Jeff is a retired New York City Transit Scheduling Manager and the VP of the ERA (Electric Railroaders Association). Even though it was over 50 years ago, the ride was so special that Jeff still remembers that day and generously offered to share photos of the trip from his personal collection. Each month, "What's New in the Archive” keeps you on the forefront of the Museum's acquisitions with our Registrar, Elise. #DidYouKnow you can explore our vast collection online? See thousands of objects and images. Head to the link in our bio and click "Online Collections." Music credit: “Game Show,” @squadcar37 Audio Productions.

Today is the LAST EVER DAY of MetroCard sales. To mark this milestone, we enlisted the help of two #NYC transit legends. Thank you, Bernie Wagenblast and Charlie Pellett! Think you know everything about MetroCard? 🧠 Test your knowledge! Play MetroCard #TransitTrivia: https://shorturl.at/8zYGN Feeling nostalgic for the MetroCard? Visit our new exhibit, "FAREwell, MetroCard," now on view at the Transit Museum in Downtown Brooklyn. The exhibit tells the story of the iconic fare card that reshaped daily life for millions of New Yorkers. Our regular hours are Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm. Plan your visit at nytransitmuseum.org.

🙀 #DidYouKnow the #MetroCard almost had a mascot called “Cardvaark”?! When the MetroCard was launched, riders would need to get comfortable using a new technology to pay their transit fare after decades of loyalty to the #NYCsubway token.Enter Alan F. Kiepper, then-president of NYCTA (New York City Transit Authority). Kiepper came up with the idea for Cardvaark, a swipe-happy aardvark mascot who would make the MetroCard feel approachable. Though Kiepper had been responsible for the beloved “Poetry in Motion” campaign, which still runs today, Cardvaark was less of a success, and never made it past the planning stages. A reporter at New York Newsday leaked the idea for Cardvaark to the public and the feedback was resoundingly negative. What do you think? Should the MTA have given Cardvaark a chance? Visit our new exhibit, "FAREwell, MetroCard" at the Museum in Downtown Brooklyn. We are open Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm. Plan your visit at nytransitmuseum.org.

27-year-old Giovanni “Gio” Rescigno is a Car Maintainer for MTA New York City Transit. He repairs #NYCsubway cars, including our vintage fleet, fixing mechanical issues. If you’ve taken a Nostalgia Ride with us or attended Parade of Trains, you’ve probably seen Gio! A railfan from the beginning, Gio grew up visiting the Museum and going on Nostalgia Rides. He loves the challenge working on the Holiday Nostalgia Train and is particularly fascinated by the R1/9s pneumatics. Catch the Holiday Nostalgia Train every Sunday in December, 10am–5pm. Made up of vintage 1930s R1/9 cars, the train travels between 2 Av–Houston St on the uptown F line and 96 St–2 Av on the Q line, making several stops in between. Throughout the month, we’re introducing you to some of the dedicated crew who keep the vintage trains running, and giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how they prepare for this beloved annual tradition. Holiday Nostalgia Rides are free with your subway fare! Hop aboard and celebrate the magic of New York City during the holidays. Find the full route and schedule at nytransitmuseum.org/holidaynostalgiarides.

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New York Transit Museum News

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A LITTLE NEW MUSIC Will Spotlight Amy Engelhardt, May 4

The Spotlight Series, a bi-monthly live streamed concert series created by A Little New Music will “spotlight” the music of composer/lyricist and humorist, Amy Engelhardt, on May 4th.

THE SPOTLIGHT SERIES to Spotlight McGuire & Simon, March 2

THE SPOTLIGHT SERIES, a bi-monthly live streamed concert series created by A LITTLE NEW MUSIC will “spotlight” musical theatre team Janine McGuire and Arri Lawton Simon on Tuesday, March 2nd. The event will be co-hosted by co-producers Luke H. Klipp and Kila Packett. The executive producer for the ALNM Spotlight Series is amy francis schott.

The York Theatre Company Will Present The NEO Reading Series Presentation Of The New Photo

The York Theatre Company Will Present The NEO Reading Series Presentation Of The New Musical BORDERS

The York Theatre Company, as part of its acclaimed NEO Reading Series, will present a staged reading of the new musical Borders, with book, music, and lyrics by 2019 NEO writers Janine McGuire and Arri Lawton Simon, based on the film The Bubble by Eytan Fox and Gal Uchovsky, for ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY on Monday, February 24, 2020 at 2:30 p.m. at the York Theatre Company at Saint Peter's (619 Lexington Avenue, entrance on East 54th Street, just east of Lexington Avenue). Admission to the presentation is by invitation only.

McGuire & Simon Announce Concert Starring Alabado, Caughell, Perez, and Ryan

In celebration of their 5-year 'collabiversary', Look Up will feature songs from McGuire & Simon's daring new musical BORDERS, about two men who fall in love amidst the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as well as audience favorites from their immersive musical EXPRESS (conceived for the New York Transit Museum and last seen at New York Film Academy), and selections from their brand new Theatre For Young Audiences show KIBBY THE SPACE DOG (commissioned by Wichita Children's Theatre and Dance Center).

ARTS IN THE CITY to Highlight David Hyde Pierce, King Tut Exhibit & Noche Flamenca This Month

ARTS IN THE CITY - the Emmy-nominated CUNY TV arts series - presents a new February program hosted by Magalie Laguerre-Wilkinson from Downtown Brooklyn's New York Transit Museum, a Hidden Gem of New York featuring dioramas, historic turnstiles, and vintage subway cars with original period advertising - the largest museum of public transportation in the country. The episode premieres beginning Friday, Feb. 12 at 10am, 3pm and 8:30pm on CUNY TV*.

State Senator José M. Serrano Joins 'One Percent for Culture' Campaign

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New York Transit Museum Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to New York Transit Museum

The closest subway stops to the New York Transit Museum at 99 Schermerhorn St in New York City are:

1. Borough Hall (4, 5, 2, 3): This subway station is just a short walk away from the museum. You can take the 4, 5, 2, or 3 train to Borough Hall and then walk about 5 minutes to reach the museum.

2. Jay Street-MetroTech (A, C, F, R): Another convenient option is to take the A, C, F, or R train to Jay Street-MetroTech station. From there, it's about a 7-minute walk to the museum.

If you're planning to visit the New York Transit Museum, I highly recommend checking their website for any updates or changes in operating hours. You can find the latest information on their official website: New York Transit Museum.

Additionally, while you're in the area, you might want to explore other nearby attractions. The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a beautiful waterfront walkway with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It's just a short distance from the museum and offers a great opportunity to take memorable photos.

If you're feeling hungry, you'll find plenty of dining options in the vicinity. Some popular choices include Colonie, a farm-to-table restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, and Shake Shack, a beloved burger joint known for its delicious burgers and shakes.

Enjoy your visit to the New York Transit Museum and have a fantastic time exploring the surrounding area!

What's the best way to get to New York Transit Museum by bus?

The closest bus stops to the New York Transit Museum at 99 Schermerhorn St in New York City are:

1. Livingston St/Schermerhorn St: Served by bus routes B25, B26, B38, B41, B45, B52, and B103. You can check for updates on these bus routes on the official MTA website: MTA.info.

2. Court St/Montague St: Served by bus routes B25, B26, B38, B41, B45, B52, and B103. You can check for updates on these bus routes on the official MTA website: MTA.info.

Please note that bus schedules and routes are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit.

How much time should I plan to spend at New York Transit Museum?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the New York Transit Museum in New York City is approximately 1-2 hours. This should give you enough time to explore the museum's fascinating exhibits and learn about the rich history of the city's transportation system.

The museum is located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, and it offers a unique and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. You can marvel at vintage subway cars, buses, and other artifacts that showcase the evolution of public transportation in New York City.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum also offers educational programs, special events, and guided tours. If you have a particular interest in transportation history or want to delve deeper into the subject, you may want to allocate more time for your visit.

Overall, the New York Transit Museum is a must-visit for transportation enthusiasts and anyone curious about the city's iconic subway system. So, make sure to add it to your itinerary and enjoy your time exploring this hidden gem!

Can I bring food and drinks into New York Transit Museum?

The New York Transit Museum, located in Brooklyn, does not have a specific food and drink policy. However, it is advisable to refrain from eating or drinking inside the museum to help maintain the cleanliness and preservation of the exhibits. If you need a snack or a drink, there are several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal before or after your visit.

Does New York Transit Museum offer luggage storage?

The New York Transit Museum, located in Brooklyn, does not provide luggage storage facilities. However, there are several options available nearby where you can store your luggage while visiting the museum. One option is to use a luggage storage service such as Vertoe or LuggageHero, which have multiple locations throughout the city, including near the museum. These services allow you to securely store your bags for a few hours or even a whole day, giving you the freedom to explore without the burden of carrying your luggage. Another option is to check with your hotel if they offer luggage storage for their guests, even after check-out. It's always a good idea to call ahead or check their website for the most up-to-date information on luggage storage options.

Is New York Transit Museum a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the New York Transit Museum is a fantastic attraction for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers! While English is the primary language used in the museum, there are plenty of visual displays, interactive exhibits, and historical artifacts that can be enjoyed by all.

The museum showcases the rich history of New York City's transportation system, including its iconic subway system. Visitors can explore vintage subway cars, buses, and trolleys, and learn about the evolution of public transportation in the city. The exhibits are visually engaging and often include signage and labels in multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse range of visitors.

Additionally, the museum offers audio guides in different languages, which provide detailed explanations and stories about the exhibits. These audio guides are a great way for non-English speakers to fully immerse themselves in the experience and learn about the fascinating history of New York City's transit system.

Overall, the New York Transit Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in transportation history or simply looking for a unique and educational experience in New York City.

What ages are appropriate for New York Transit Museum?

The New York Transit Museum in New York City is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages! While it may be especially appealing to transportation enthusiasts and history buffs, it offers something for everyone. Children, in particular, tend to love exploring the vintage subway cars and buses on display. Additionally, the museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that are engaging for kids of all ages. So whether you're traveling with young children or are simply curious about the fascinating history of New York City's transit system, the New York Transit Museum is definitely worth a visit!

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