Take a ride back in time to see some classic buses that rode the streets of old-time NYC at a bus festival pulling into Brooklyn next month.
Just like the nickel fare and tokens, vehicles at the New York Transit Museum’s 2025 Bus Festival in Brooklyn Bridge Park will bring New Yorkers back to a quintessential time period. Plus, vintage buses are just plain fun to see!
No OMNY card is necessary to attend the free event, which is being held in collaboration with the MTA on Sept. 21. Registration is recommended but not required.
“Bus Festival is a true collaboration between the New York Transit Museum and the MTA,” said Regina Shepherd, the museum’s acting director. “It’s a day when we open the doors—literally—to New York’s surface transit history and give our visitors the chance to experience it firsthand.”
Highlights of the 2025 bus festival
Buses to check out at the event include:
Betsy. Bus 1263, known as “Betsy,” is a 1930 Fifth Avenue Coach double-decker bus. It was in service from 1931 to 1953, and is one of the oldest vehicles in the museum’s vintage fleet.
Bus 3100. This 1956 classic that served Manhattan was the first air-conditioned bus in the United States.
Bus 4727. Built in 1969, this baby blue icon faithfully rolled through NYC and was especially effective on the steep hills of the Bronx and upper Manhattan. These buss were in service until 1987.
Bus 5227. Built in 1971 and refurbished in 1985, this bus is a white GMC with hard plastic seating that was in use through 1995.
This year, unexpected favorites will make an appearance, which organizers said are “sure to steal the show.” The museum is keeping the surprise guests mum…at least for now!
What you need to know about the New York Transit Museum’s 2025 Bus Festival
When is the festival?
The 2025 Bus Festival will be held on Sunday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., rain or shine.
Where is it located?
The event will take place at Emily Warren Roebling Plaza in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Is it free to attend?
Yes! No OMNY or MetroCard required. For more information, visit nytransitmuseum.org/busfestival.
