New Yorkers, it is time to step back in time. The holiday season brings countless traditions to the city. One of the most magical is the return of the Holiday Nostalgia Train.
The New York Transit Museum and MTA organize this annual event. It lets you ride real vintage subway cars from the 1930s. The historic train operates every Sunday between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
Experience a 1930s commute
The train features eight beautifully preserved cars. They served on the lettered lines through the late 1970s. These R1/9 models were built for the very first city-operated subway company.
Step aboard to find authentic rattan seats and paddle ceiling fans. The cars feature vintage advertisements and old incandescent light bulbs. These are the exact cars that inspired Billy Strayhorn’s famous jazz song ‘Take the A Train’. Today, they are lovingly preserved as part of the museum’s collection.
Join the new scavenger hunt
You can make the ride even more interactive this year. There is a brand new Holiday Nostalgia Ride Scavenger Hunt. Simply download the free New York Transit Museum App to play.
Passengers are invited to find and photograph specific historic details. You will discover exactly what they reveal about 1930s travel. Find them all to earn a special prize.
More transit history to explore
The Transit Museum is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. You can keep the holiday spirit on track at the Holiday Train Show at Grand Central Terminal.
It opens this Friday, November 13. The beloved display features Lionel model trains zooming through a 34-foot miniature city. This year includes a brand new section of models by artist Danny Cortes.
You can also grab transit-themed gifts at the museum store. Pick up train toys, subway route tees, and authentic token jewelry. Every purchase helps keep New York’s transit history alive.
How to ride the nostalgia train
The best part about this seasonal time machine is the price. The ride is completely free with a standard subway fare.
- 📆 Sundays between Thanksgiving and New Year’s (November 29, December 6, 13, 20, and 27) from 10am to 5pm
- 📍Operating between 2 Av–Houston St on the uptown F line and 96 St–2 Av on the Q line
- 🎟️ Free with subway fare
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