New York City has a rich history of public transportation, and vintage buses are a fascinating part of that history. These buses, which date back to the 1930s and 1940s, were once a common sight on the city’s streets. Today, a few of these historic vehicles have been preserved and can still be seen in operation, thanks to the efforts of organizations like the New York Transit Museum. If you’re in NYC and feeling nostalgic, the annual New York Transit Museum’s Bus Festival is here to give you a ride across the city.
What’s In The Bus Festival?
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Held at the museum’s main location in Brooklyn, the festival brings together a wide range of vintage and contemporary buses from different eras, as well as experts and enthusiasts in the field of public transportation. This time, the festival will showcase eight vintage buses.
The festival will provide plenty of photo ops, a chance to meet some bus drivers, shop in a pop-up shop, and give you a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline from the Emily Warren Roebling Plaza underneath the Brooklyn Bridge, where the festival is being held.
However, one of the most exciting parts of the Bus Festival is the opportunity to take a ride on some of the historic buses. This is a great way to connect with the city’s rich history and appreciate the innovation that went into designing and operating these iconic vehicles.
Also Read: Going to NYC? Here’s What You Just Can’t Miss!
Which Vintage Buses Can You Expect?
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In addition to their historical significance, vintage buses are also a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Some of the buses you may see include Bus 3100 from 1956. According to the museum, it was the first air-conditioned bus in the U.S. The bus itself is a classic example of mid-century bus design, with a streamlined exterior and an elegant, curved roofline. The bus was distinguished by its cream and green paint scheme, which was a signature of the Fifth Avenue Coach Company.
Then you can also have a look at The Betsy Bus, a beloved vintage bus that is part of the New York Transit Museum’s collection. This bus was in service in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, it is one of the museum’s most popular exhibits, attracting visitors from around the world who come to see this historic vehicle up close.
Are you excited about the New York Transit Museum’s Bus Festival?
Where: Emily Warren Roebling Plaza in Brooklyn Bridge Park, beneath the Brooklyn Bridge
When: On June 10 (10 am to 4 pm)
Cost: Free to attend
Cover image credits: Flickr