New York City transit history rolls back onto active tracks this holiday season as vintage 1930s subway cars begin their weekend runs.
The New York Transit Museum and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced the return of the Holiday Nostalgia Train, which operates every Sunday between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
Eight beautifully preserved R1/9 rail cars make up the historic train. These vintage carriages served lettered transit routes until the late 1970s after their initial deployment on the city’s first municipally operated subway network.
Passengers stepping inside the vintage carriages encounter authentic rattan seating, overhead paddle ceiling fans, and vintage incandescent bulb lighting. The historic cars feature period advertisements that inspired jazz composer Billy Strayhorn to write the famous tune “Take the A Train,” according to the New York Transit Museum.
Museum curators maintain the rail cars as a core part of the public transit collection. Riders can examine the preserved historical details during regular Sunday service hours.
A new interactive scavenger hunt accompanies the holiday train rides this season. Passengers can download the free New York Transit Museum app to participate in the digital game.
Participants locate and photograph specific historical details aboard the train to learn about 1930s travel conditions. Travelers who find every item on the list win a special prize from the museum.
The New York Transit Museum marks its 50th anniversary alongside the annual train operations. The Holiday Train Show opens at Grand Central Terminal, featuring Lionel model trains operating on a 34-foot miniature city layout.
The display includes a new section of handcrafted models built by artist Danny Cortes. Visitors can also purchase transit-themed gifts, toy trains, and jewelry crafted from authentic subway tokens at the museum shop.
The vintage train operates every Sunday from November 29 through December 27 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Service runs along the uptown F line from 2nd Avenue to Houston Street and along the Q line from 96th Street to 2nd Avenue.
Regular subway fare grants full access to the historic train. Standard MetroCards or OMNY contactless payment methods cover the cost of the ride.