Underground Brooklyn: Exploring Brooklyn's Oldest Subway Stations

Have you ever wondered what original details still remain inside Brooklyn's oldest subway stations, or why there are so many abandoned platforms and stations? With the help of a former transit planner, it's time to head underground to uncover the past, present, and future of Brooklyn's mass transit in our region of 20+ million people.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the history and subway operations behind Brooklyn's most important transit landmarks, from the very first subterranean stations to the highest station in the Western hemisphere.

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

• An overview of how and why the transit system was built underground at the beginning of the 20th century
• The meaning behind the art and architecture surrounding some of Brooklyn's oldest subway stations
• Transit secrets surrounding some of the older stations, including peeks at several abandoned stations and platforms hidden in plain sight
• The reason why the highest rapid transit station in the Western hemisphere was built in Brooklyn
• The opportunity to practice your moonwalk in the exact spot where Michael Jackson filmed the music video, Bad
• An earpiece for each guest to hear the guide over the loud sounds of the subway

Our experience will conclude at Barclays Center subway station in Downtown Brooklyn, steps away from local food options.

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 the Barclays Center subway station in Downtown Brooklyn

*****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

"Second tour w Rayin. He is the best. Patient, informed, solicitous and a delight to spend time." -Puerre

"The guide was well prepared, kept talking even on the short rides between stations" -Michael

"Learning about the history of the different subway lines. Felt like we went subway hopping! Very knowledgable tour guide. Showed great passion for the subway systems." -Brenda

"Very knowledgeable guide - Rayn." -Leslie

"Great tour guide!" -Esteban

"Highly recommend it. Learning new information and the fascinating history of the subway system." -Aviva

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