In 1904, New York City’s very first subway ride departed from the architecturally stunning City Hall station in Lower Manhattan, a moment of great civic pride for the city. Though the station is still active as a turnaround for the 6 line, it was decommissioned in 1945. Only New York Transit Museum members have the exclusive opportunity to step inside this landmark through guided tours, and discover its elegant chandeliers, leaded skylights, vaulted tile ceiling, and sweeping structural curves.

Tours last approximately 90 minutes and begin above ground with the fascinating history of Alfred Beach’s Pneumatic Tube and the development of the city’s first subway system. The tour then heads underground to explore the station designed by renowned architects George Heins & Christopher LaFarge, featuring innovative tiled ceilings by master artisan Rafael Guastavino.

Checking Out

Members can buy tickets for the number of people covered by their membership. For more information on membership ticket allocations and age requirements for the Old City Hall station tour, visit this page. 

To purchase tickets:

• Sign in above to verify membership.
• Once signed in, enter your desired number of member tickets in the Adult Member/Child Member boxes.
• Click the “Register” button and add your information.
• The prices on this page will remain the same, and the member’s discount will automatically be applied at checkout on the last page.

After you book your ticket, you will receive three emails. One will be a receipt, another ticket(s), and the third will include remaining security steps to confirm your ticket(s).

Failure to complete the security steps within 48 hours will cancel your registration and your ticket cost will become a tax-deductible donation to the New York Transit Museum. Please contact programs@nytransitmuseum.org if you do not receive the third email.