Holiday Nostalgia Rides aboard MTA’s vintage 1930s train cars. Celebrate the magic of New York City during the holidays — and turn back the clock in this holiday season!
Nostalgia Train departs from 2 Av–Houston St on the uptown F line and 96 St–2 Av on the Q line.
Schedule is as follows:
This year, the Holiday Nostalgia Train will operate every Sunday in December from 10am to 5pm.
The train departs from 2 Av–Houston St on the uptown F line in lower Manhattan at:
- 10am
- 12pm
- 2pm
- 4pm
The train departs from 96 St– 2 Av on the Q line at:
- 11am
- 1pm
- 3pm
- 5pm
For more information, go to NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT MUSEUM
ROUTE
The Holiday Nostalgia Train will depart from 2 Av–Houston St on the uptown F line and 96 St–2 Av on the Q line. Passengers can board the train at any of the stations listed below.
Please note:
- For stops between 2 Av–Houston St and Lexington Av–63 St, board on the F line platform.
- For stops between Lexington Av–63 St and 96 St–2 Av, board on the Q line platform.
The December Subway Experience in NYC
• Cold Above, Warm Below
Stepping down into the subway from the frosty streets of Queens or Manhattan, you’re hit with a wave of warmth. Sometimes it’s comforting, sometimes it’s stifling compared to the crisp air outside.
• Holiday Hustle
Trains are packed with shoppers carrying bags from Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, or small boutiques. You’ll see gift-wrapped boxes peeking out of tote bags, and tourists clutching maps or phones, trying to navigate.
• Street Performers & Music
December brings more buskers—saxophonists playing jazzy Christmas tunes, singers belting out “Silent Night,” or drummers turning buckets into percussion. The holiday vibe is alive underground.
• Fashion & Layers
Riders are bundled in scarves, heavy coats, and gloves. The subway becomes a parade of winter fashion—puffer jackets, wool hats, and boots dusted with snow.
• Energy of the City
There’s a unique mix of exhaustion and excitement. Commuters are weary from long days, while visitors are buzzing with holiday spirit, heading to Rockefeller Centre, Times Square, or festive markets.
• Snow & Slush Factor
On snowy days, platforms get slippery, and boots track slush onto the train. The contrast between the sparkling decorations above ground and the gritty subway below is striking.
