Image: Excavation for Decking 8 Av and 112 St 1925. Subway Construction Photograph Collection/New York Transit Museum
Transit Walk-Deep Dive: 100 Years after Breaking Ground on the IND’s First Route
Members enjoy early access! Tickets go on sale to Museum members on Wednesday, January 14 at 10am ET. Remaining tickets go on sale to the public at Friday, January 16 at 10am ET.
Explore the rich history of New York City, past and present, one neighborhood at a time. Through the lens of transportation, discover new places, share stories, and connect with communities.
Almost as soon as the New York City subway opened in 1904, crowded trains and packed platforms pushed the system to its limits. In the 1920s, the city proposed a bold solution to expand services: a municipal-run subway, what would come to be known as the Independent Subway (IND). Designed to relieve congestion and improve service, the IND introduced faster trains, larger and more modern stations, and cutting-edge technological improvements.
Join transit historian Andy Sparberg for a deep dive on the IND’s first route, which began construction in 1925, 100 years ago. Travel up the Eighth Avenue line from lower to upper Manhattan and stop at key stations along the way. Discover hidden architectural features and upgraded design elements, while hearing behind-the-scenes stories of the subway’s ambitious growth.
As always everyone is welcome to join. This tour provides a deep dive, thus is best suited for those who have some knowledge of New York City transit.
Member Discounts
To receive the member ticket price, click the register button and sign in on the ticketing page to verify membership. The discount will appear at checkout.
All Ticket Sales are Final
If you cannot attend the program on the date you reserved or do not submit security materials in time, the total price of unused tickets will be treated as a donation to the Transit Museum and is tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Tickets are non-refundable, cannot be transferred to another date, and cannot be used by another individual.
Age Requirements
Children ages 2 and up need their own ticket to the program.
Children ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Program Experience
Tours require walking, standing, and stair climbing. Restrooms are not available on the tour route and there may not be places to sit or amenities like climate control. Tours last approximately 90 minutes.
Please wear comfortable shoes.
Accessibility
Walking and climbing stairs required.
Pets, or comfort, therapy, or emotional support animals are not permitted at Museum programs. Only service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted.
For information on American Sign Language interpreter requests, Assistive Listening Devices, or other accessibility matters please visit our accessibility page or email [email protected]. If you secure tickets, please request any accommodations via email at least two weeks in advance.
Contact Us
Questions? Email [email protected].
Support the museum
Fuel our mission to preserve transit history, create inspiring exhibits, and offer programs for learners of all ages.
Plan your visit
Experience New York’s transit story firsthand—explore historic trains, unique exhibitions, and special events at the Museum.