Key Takeaways
- 🚂 The New York Transit Museum’s free Holiday Train Show returns to Grand Central Terminal on November 13, 2026, and runs through February 2027
- 🎄 The 34-foot, two-level railroad features classic Lionel trains, Metro-North trains, vintage subway cars, and the Polar Express traveling from Grand Central to the North Pole
- 🏙️ New for 2026, Brooklyn artist Danny Cortes brings miniature NYC storefronts and buildings to the exhibition, including Crazy Eddie and La Borinqueña
New York City’s holiday season is about to get a little smaller — and a lot more festive!
The New York Transit Museum’s annual Holiday Train Show, a beloved tradition dating back to 2002, is rolling back into Grand Central Terminal on Friday, November 13, 2026! Running through February 2027, the completely free exhibition will feature classic Lionel trains, miniature NYC landmarks, and a snowy journey to the North Pole. New this year is a collection of miniature New York storefronts and buildings created by Brooklyn artist Danny Cortes.
At the heart of the exhibition is an elaborate, 34-foot-long, two-level “O” gauge railroad layout at the New York Transit Museum’s Grand Central Gallery. Visitors can watch miniature Metro-North commuter trains, vintage New York City subway cars, and the famous Polar Express chug along the winding tracks. Setting off from a miniature replica of Grand Central Terminal, the trains pass familiar NYC landmarks, bustling little city streets, and tiny storefronts before reaching the snow-covered North Pole.
While the model trains are the main attraction, Brooklyn-born artist Danny Cortes is bringing his signature miniature artwork to the show, featuring a collection of New York City storefronts and buildings inspired by the neighborhoods he grew up in…