All Aboard Straphangers

To some, the subway is a rumbling, cramped, assault on the senses (excuse me break-dancer, kindly roundhouse kick in someone else’s face) to get you from point A to B. But, to train transfixed wee ones, a public transportation is sheer, choo-choo bliss. Thankfully, the New York Transit Museum will appeal to commuters of all ages.

And, while a trip on the subway is always an education of sorts, this rail ride teaches history about the technology and progression of urban public transportation that kids might actually use someday.

It’s a total train experience from the minute you descend the subway steps to the museum housed within a former working subway station. Pay for admission at the ticket booth and pass through the turnstile into the exhibit areas that tell the story of one of the largest transportation systems in the world. Kids can take the free, guided tours on weekends at 1:30pm, or meander through the photographs, subway tokens, models and other memorabilia illustrating transit history on your own.

The main attraction for little conductors is the string of subway cars dating from the 1800s to the 1960s parked on the tracks below the main exhibit space. Dash from one era to the next as you play straphanger in restored cars complete with kicky advertisements for everything from Campbell’s Soup to Arrow Shirts.

If only your commute were this fun everyday.

Cost: Children 2-17, $5; Adults $7. Note: Admission is free for museum members, that includes Brooklyn Children’s Museum members, just be sure to bring your card.

Hours: Open Tuesday – Friday 10:00am to 4:00pm; Saturday and Sunday 11:00am to 5:00pm.
Closed Mondays and major holidays.

Boerum Place at Schermerhorn Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone 718-694-1600
Online: mta.info/mta/museum

— Laura House