A Blast from the Past: Take a Holiday Nostalgia Train Ride in New York City
There are many things I love about New York City, but there’s a special place in my heart for how the city celebrates the holidays. It’s a special time of year when everyone’s a little less brusque, a little less hurried. Tourists are in awe of their surroundings, but for a brief moment in time, the locals are too. And all we need to shield us from the bitter cold as we take in oversized trees, holiday markets and dressed-up store windows are hot cups of cider in mittened hands.
There are certain seasonal snapshots that feel timeless. Christmas trees for sale on the sidewalk with string lights hanging overhead. Salvation Army volunteers dancing and singing at the entrance to the department store. We get nostalgic around the holidays because it marks the passage of time ever so clearly, year after year. Memories are made, traditions are born. All of it feels sacred. So don’t miss the chance to add another fun city holiday tradition: the Nostalgia Train Ride.
What is a Nostalgia Train Ride?
The New York Transit Museum houses a wealth of history within its walls, but around the holidays it gifts the city with a special trip down memory lane. For several Sundays in November and December, the MTA and the New York Transit Museum dusts off its vintage fleet and takes it out for a spin.
The Shoppers Special is an R-1 car manufactured by the American Car and Foundry Company out of Pennsylvania. The eight-car train was in service from the 1930s to the 1970s. Its basic, dark green riveted design is characteristic of Depression-era austerity, as is its sturdiness and durability. The cars feature rattan seats, ceiling fans and drop-sash windows. Shoppers Special riders are also treated to its original advertisements, which include a variety of “Helpful Hints”. MTA’s “Courtesy Counts, Manners Make A Better Ride” campaign casts a stark comparison to the time in question. The 2014 campaign addressed eating on the train, removing backpacks and man spreading.
How can I take a Nostalgia Train Ride?
The Nostalgia Train Ride runs up and down Manhattan from the 2nd Avenue F train station to the 145th St A/C/D station. Trains depart approximately every 2 hours from the start and end of the line. Annual changes to the route and schedule are announced prior to the start of the season, so be sure to check with the New York Transit Museum for specifics.
2023 Update:
Nostalgia Train Rides will resume in December this year! The 1930s R1/9 train cars will depart from the F line’s 2nd Avenue station and travel to 145th Street on the D line from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm on the following dates:
December 2, 2023
December 9, 2023
December 16, 2023
December 23, 2023
December 30, 2023
Pro Tip: Although you can board anywhere along the route, note that the trains are usually fairly crowded and may be at full capacity. Your best bet is to be at the southern or northern start of the route.
How much does a Nostalgia Train Ride cost?
The train ride costs as much as the normal subway fare! Just swipe your MetroCard, or tap a contactless bank card at the turnstile. No additional fee is required to hop on a Nostalgia Train Ride.
Is any special attire required?
No, every day clothes are perfectly acceptable! But New York City never passes up an opportunity to turn something into an event with a capital E. As you approach the subway platform, you may notice men and women dressed in the finest vintage outfits, leaving you to wonder if you’ve traveled through time. No, the Nostalgia Train Rides attract fans of retro clothing, dance and music. If you’re lucky, you might even get to enjoy a performance or witness a swing dance party!
Conclusion
The New York Transit Museum is located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn and offers a fascinating glance into the history of transit. The vintage subway cars are on display year-round at the New York Transit Museum, though the full experience is pretty hard to beat. I don’t know about you, but I’m already wondering where to get my vintage outfit for next year’s party. If you have a line in on where to go, please let me know!
