Subway Holiday Tile Ornaments Spread Cheer Underground NYC Tour

Taking in the Sights of Festive Subway Station Holiday Decorations

Welcome Ed, Cathy, John and Debbie from Syracuse! We're so glad you chose New York City as your holiday season day trip destination. As you venture around the Big Apple soaking in the magical Christmas decor, make sure to spend some time admiring the cheerful and colorful subway station ornaments as you utilize the convenient underground transport system. Many fun surprises await around every corner!

Appreciating the Whimsical Subway Tile Christmas Ornaments

One delightful aspect of the New York City subway system is discovering the unique adornments at different stations. Throughout the holidays, many stops feature lovely Christmas ornaments crafted from classic white subway tiles arranged into festive shapes like snowflakes, trees, wreaths, stars and gift boxes with big red bows. These creative designs reflect the talent of MTA workers and bring extra cheer to the daily commute.

As you travel around sightseeing, keep an eye out for vibrant tile creations at stops like the 57th Street station on the F line, 34th Street-Herald Square on the B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W and the enormous holiday wreath at Union Square on the L line. The vibrant colors and thoughtful details make it easy to spread holiday joy whether you’re a lifelong city resident or a tourist taking in the glorious seasonal allure that is New York City at Christmastime.

Historic Train Stations Turned Holiday Havens

In addition to the fanciful tiled ornaments found in many underground stations, some of the historic former train stations now part of the subway system also shine extra bright for the holidays. The ornate arched ceilings, chandeliers and brass detailing of these Beaux-Arts style stations provide a beautiful backdrop for Christmas finery.

City Hall station on the 6 train line is a stunning example. This meticulously decorated stop once served the mayor’s office but is now only open for special occasions. From garlands strung across the skylight ceiling to lamp posts wrapped in pine boughs and ribbons to the enormous holiday wreath crowning the round kiosk in the center, City Hall station is truly a magical place.

Along the same line, the recently renovated Cortlandt Street station also dazzles. While its soaring archways always impress, the added wreaths, lights and 20-foot Christmas tree make it a festive feast for the eyes. Note the symbolic义的 ornaments decorated with images of the Twin Towers in homage to the station's location at the World Trade Center site.

Best Areas for Subway Station Sightseeing

Now that you know what makes the underground holiday adornments so special, here are some of the top areas to explore:

Manhattan's Midtown Corridor

For seeing many gorgeous stations in a small area, spend time around Manhattan’s central business district. Subway lines converge below the towering office buildings, restaurants, shops and attractions that make Midtown such an iconic NYC locale.

Stops along 7th Avenue provide opportunities for viewing tile creations as well as a ride aboard a line with antique “redbird” train cars decked out in vintage-style Christmas ads. Check the subway maps for stations servicing the 1/2/3, A/C/E, N/Q/R/W and S lines as you navigate the neighborhood.

Downtown Attractions

In addition to the magical Cortlandt Street station, the areas around other significant downtown sites also offer festive sights. These include:

• Fulton Center - Connecting several lines, its soaring atrium shines especially bright each holiday.
• World Trade Center Transportation Hub - The architectural style itself impresses while Christmas lights enhance the Oculus design.
• Bowling Green - This stop for the 4/5 lines has a tile wreath and imaginative “ frostwork” icicle lighting.

Brooklyn Neighborhoods

Venturing into NYC’s most populous borough reveals even more chances for festive subway station viewing. For example, the tile ornament display at Grand Army Plaza brings cheer to the start of Park Slope’s bustling Flatbush Avenue. And large displays at Jay Street MetroTech and Atlantic Avenue-Barclay's Center attract attention.

Several stations along 4th avenue in Brooklyn also feature creative tiled ornament arrangements. Vibrant colors and thoughtful designs enhance stops like Union Street, 9th Street, 25th Street and 36th Street. Exploring various lines in the borough increases possibilities for delightful discoveries underground!

End Your Tour with Tasty Treats

After a busy day riding the rails and admiring the holiday decor of New York’s subway stations, finish your adventure with delectable eats at Moynihan Train Hall. The soaring skylight and architectural details pair perfectly with delicious dishes served at the expansive food hall’s array of vendors.

Feast on pizza, bagels, tacos, soup dumplings or whatever strikes your fancy. Find balcony seating overlooking the grand train hall or cozy up by one of the fireplaces with your grub. However you cap off your day of Christmas joy in the city, may your memories shine bright for holidays to come!

FAQs

Where in the subway system can I see creative tile ornaments?

Stations all around New York feature ornament designs made from classic white subway tiles. Some top spots are 57th Street-7th Ave, 34th Street-Herald Square, Union Square, Grand Army Plaza, and 4th Ave stations in Brooklyn.

What historic former train stations are decorated for Christmas?

The antique elegance of stations like City Hall on the 6 line and the newly renovated Cortlandt Street WOW with wreaths, garlands, lights and even large holiday trees on their expansive platforms.

How can I ride trains decked out for the holidays?

The 1, 2 and 3 lines have special "redbird" train cars dating from the mid-1900s running during the Christmas season, complete with retro-style holiday advertisements and decoration.

Where can I see subway ornament displays and find good food?

After a long day of ornament viewing, head to Moynihan Train Hall. Its food hall offers an array of cuisine while still allowing you to appreciate the station's architecture and holiday embellishments.