Things To Do At The New York Transit Museum In Brooklyn, NY

Journey Through Transportation History: A Guide to the New York Transit Museum

Located in a decommissioned subway station in Downtown Brooklyn, the New York Transit Museum provides an immersive experience into the history and evolution of the city’s public transportation system. From vintage subway cars to intriguing exhibits, this museum is a treasure trove for transit enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. Experience the New York Transit Museum more at this link. Here are some of the exciting things you can do at the New York Transit Museum.

1. Explore the Vintage Fleet of Subway and Elevated Cars

The New York Transit Museum is home to a remarkable collection of vintage subway and elevated cars dating back to the early 1900s. As you walk through the museum’s platform level, you can enter these cars, see their evolving designs, and even sit on the antique wicker seats. Highlights include the “BMT D-Type Triplex” and the “BRT/BMT Q Car.”

2. Learn from Engaging Exhibits

The museum’s exhibits span two floors and offer a comprehensive look at the development of the city’s public transportation system. These displays cover various topics, from the construction of the subway system and the challenges of maintaining it, to the role transit played in shaping the city’s growth. Be sure to check out the “Steel, Stone, and Backbone” exhibit that recounts the building of the subway using photographs and vintage tools.

3. Take Part in Educational Programs and Tours

The New York Transit Museum offers a range of educational programs and tours designed for visitors of all ages. Children can enjoy storytime sessions and transit-themed workshops, while adults can join tours led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the intricacies of the transit system. The museum also offers virtual workshops and resources for those unable to visit in person.

4. Discover the Role of Transit in the City’s Culture

The museum hosts rotating exhibits that examine the cultural significance of public transportation in New York City. These displays often feature transit-themed artworks, historical maps, archival photographs, and more. “Navigating New York,” for instance, showcases a selection of maps from the museum’s collection that demonstrates the evolution of the city’s transit network.

5. Visit the Museum Store

Before you leave, be sure to stop by the museum store, which sells a wide range of transit-themed merchandise. From subway map umbrellas to vintage train models, there are plenty of unique souvenirs and gifts to choose from.

6. Attend Special Events

The New York Transit Museum frequently hosts special events and exhibitions, including nostalgic rides on vintage subway cars, discussions with transit experts, and annual events like the Transit Museum’s Bus Festival. Be sure to check their events calendar during your visit.

7. Participate in Accessibility Programs

The museum is committed to being accessible to all visitors and offers programs designed specifically for people with disabilities. This includes Subway Sleuths, a program for kids on the autism spectrum, and the Early Morning Explorers, an event for families with children with disabilities to explore the museum before it opens to the public.

The New York Transit Museum offers a fascinating journey through the history and impact of New York City’s public transportation system. Whether you’re a longtime New Yorker curious about the subway beneath your feet or a visitor keen to understand the city’s development, this museum is a must-visit destination. So, embark on a journey into the past and discover the rich transit history that shaped the Big Apple into the city it is today. See one of the most historical locations New York has to offer, the Brooklyn Bridge.