New York Museum of Transportation

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About Us

Open to the public since 1973, the New York Museum of Transportation contains a collection of exhibits and actual vehicles that tell the story of western New York State transportation.  The tale unfolds first with animal powered buggies, wagons and rail-borne horsecars, then by railroads, electric streetcars and interurban trolley cars, and finally by motorized highway vehicles.  Abundant exhibits and smaller artifacts enhance the story and bring the history to life.

A gallery mounts exhibits of artwork and period photographs, and features a film titled “The Steel Wheel” showing the Rochester Subway shortly before its 1956 abandonment.  The film covers the entirety of the 9-mile line and reveals details of the operation of the Subway cars.  “The Steel Wheel” runs continuously throughout the day.

The museum is entirely volunteer run and is open Sundays only. Group visits can be arranged on weekdays, and the museum can be scheduled for private parties, photo shoots, and location filming.

On certain Sundays, a visit includes a two-mile round trip trolley ride.  Visitors experience the interurban era of a century ago as their trolley car winds its way on a 20-minute voyage through scenic countryside.  The air whistle and the clickety-clack on the rails bring back a time when trolley cars provided fast, clean service connecting upstate New York cities. 

Note:  Reservations are required for admission on trolley ride days Click here to be directed to our reservation page.

On non-ride days, a reduced admission of $5 adults and $4 youths age 3 – 12 applies, and the full museum experience is included.