The Subway Secrets of Midtown & Queens: Long Island City to Second Avenue

Have you ever wondered what original details still remain inside Midtown's oldest subway stations? Or why Queens' newest subway stations are now 35+ years old? With the help of a former transit planner, it's time to head underground, and above, to uncover the past, present, and future of mass transit in our region of 20+ million people.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the history and subway operations behind the most important transit landmarks in Midtown and Queens, from the very first subterranean stations to the newest in the system.

Led by licensed guide and urban planner Rayn Riel, our unique subway experience will include:

• An overview of how and why the transit system was built underground at the beginning of the 20th century
• A look at the original 1904 station remnants at Times Square, the country's busiest subway station
• A walk around the newest subway stations in New York City along the Second Avenue line
• Beautiful skyline views of Midtown from elevated subway lines in Queens, New York's largest and most diverse borough
• A peek at secret musical artwork and abandoned underground passageways
• How the New York City subway operates and what technology keeps it moving 24 hours, 7 days a week

See you there!

*Since our tour starts outside, a MetroCard swipe or OMNY tap will be needed to enter the subway system

**Please bring water and comfortable shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking and stair-climbing

***This tour does not access any restricted areas

****This tour concludes at Columbus Circle

*****Exact route and tour length may vary slightly based on the MTA’s weekend schedule

About Rayn Riel

Rayn is a big believer in big cities and fascinated by the urban transportation infrastructure that supports such levels of density and dynamism. He is from NYC and has worked for MTA NYC Transit as well as the NYC water utility (DEP) & Sanitation Department. He is an AICP certified urban planner and is a licensed NYC tour guide, as well as a member of the Guides Association of NYC (GANYC) and Young Professionals in Transportation (YPT-NYC).

Testimonials

"Seeing parts of the NYC subway system that I hadn't seen before. The guide was personable and knowledgeable." -Michael

"Small group of engaged participants - guide was very knowledgeable and flexible to adapt to the interests of the group" -Leslie

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Host or Publisher New York Adventure Club