Image courtesy of New York Transit Museum
Calling all transit buffs, history lovers, families, and curious weekend wanderers, the Parade of Trains is back and ready to roll through Brooklyn! This much-anticipated event hosted by the New York Transit Museum is your rare chance to ride aboard vintage subway cars that once rumbled beneath the city streets, many dating back nearly a century.
What Is the Parade of Trains?
The New York Transit Museum offers year-round events through its Nostalgia Rides series, a program beloved to train enthusiasts, history buffs, and the public at large, that began back in the mid-70s. In one form or another, the series has continued unabated ever since, with the only notable hiatus occurring in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. The Parade of Trains is a celebration of the city’s iconic subway system, offering the public a hands-on way to experience historic transit cars that are typically only displayed in museum settings. Some ticketed events cost upwards of $60 ($50 for museum members), but the Parade of Trains offers this unique opportunity at the cost of a regular subway fare, no special ticket required.
This year, on Saturday, June 7, 2025 and Sunday, June 8, 2025, trains will operate between Brighton Beach and Kings Highway stations, starting at 11:00 am. The last train boards at 3:50 pm, and trips run continuously throughout the day. Each ride lasts about 10 minutes.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Imagine riding through Brooklyn in a legendary R-1/9, BMT Standard, or BU Gate Cars. Whether you're a lifelong New Yorker or a first-time visitor, this is one of the most charming and unique ways to spend a day in the city.
And if you're bringing little ones? The first car of each train is an especially magical place for children — complete with the front-facing window that makes them feel like they’re in the driver’s seat. It’s also a dream for photographers, historians, and curious commuters alike.
Know Before You Go: Tips for a Smooth Ride
Where to Board: You can only get on and off trains at Brighton Beach and Kings Highway stations. At Brighton Beach, use the interior two platforms. At Kings Highway, head to the Manhattan-bound platform.
Timing & Waits: Trains run continuously from 11:00 am to about 4:00 pm. Each trip is roughly 10 minutes long. Wait times will vary — bring some patience and enjoy the experience!
Safety First: Stay behind the yellow line, avoid sitting directly on the platform, and always keep arms inside the train. No walking between cars while the train is moving.
Accessibility: Kings Highway station is ADA-accessible via an elevator located on the south side of Kings Highway, west of 16th Street. Brighton Beach is not accessible, and not all vintage cars can accommodate wheelchairs (e.g., BU Gate Cars require a large step).
Photography Rules: You’re welcome to take photos and videos for personal use, just leave the tripods, selfie sticks, and lights at home.
Food & Drink: Help preserve these beautifully restored cars by not eating or drinking onboard. Respect the vintage interiors — they’re pieces of living history.
Children: All kids 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Insider Tips for Attendees
Arrive Early: The lines can get long, especially midday. Arriving closer to the 11:00 am start time means shorter waits and fewer crowds.
Make a Day of It: After your ride, explore Brighton Beach’s boardwalk or grab a bite at one of the neighborhood’s famed Russian and Eastern European eateries.
So mark your calendars for this unique weekend event. It’s more than just a train ride, it’s a nostalgic journey through New York City’s rich transit history.