A Parent’s Guide to Exploring Moynihan Train Hall with Kids
As NYC parents, we’ve all been there … rushing through Moynihan Train Hall, dragging the kids along as we hustle to catch a train or make our way to the next destination. We rarely take a moment to appreciate the little details.
If you take a moment to look around, you’ll notice that Moynihan Train Hall has more to offer than you might expect. This architectural gem is more than just a transit hub. From impressive artwork to small interactive features, it’s a space that can surprise you and turn a quick stop with the kids into something a little more interesting.
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If you’ve only been mindlessly passing through, it’s worth slowing down to notice the interesting things you can do while traveling through Moynihan Train Hall. When waiting for a train, there are plenty of little surprises that can make the time spent there more enjoyable for families. There’s more to discover than you might expect, and keeping kids entertained and engaged while traveling is always a win.
Take a Look at the Massive Skylight in the Main Concourse
As you pass through the Main Concourse, kids may be drawn to the expansive ceiling above. The 92-foot-high skylight brings in natural light throughout the day, rain or shine, with an acre of glass panels. You can make a game out of guessing how many panels make up the skylight. Here’s a hint: There are 3,160 panels, arranged within a complex steel framework.
Explore the Digital Arrival and Departure Screens
For kids who enjoy numbers and geography, the colorful digital screens displaying real-time arrival and departure information are a fun way to explore destinations and see how travel works in action. Plus, it helps pass the time. With dozens of screens throughout the train hall, you can explore rail destinations across the country. For example, did you know Amtrak runs a route from NYC to Miami that takes about 30 hours?
Grab a Bite at Moynihan Food Hall
If you’re looking for a snack, Moynihan Food Hall has a variety of options. You can pick up a treat from Magnolia Bakery, known for its cupcakes and banana pudding, or grab a pastry from Maman Bakery. For something sweet, Davey’s Ice Cream serves up some of the best hot chocolate in the city. Jacob’s Pickles offers comfort food that’s perfect for kids, while H&H Bagels is great for a quick meal. And if you’re in the mood for pizza, Sauce Pizzeria doesn’t disappoint.
Discover Unexpected Art Around the Train Hall
As you move through the train hall, you’ll come across some interesting public art. One example is The Hive, an upside-down city by artists Elmgreen & Dragset, located in the 31st Street Midblock Entry Hall (between 8th and 9th Avenues). This installation features illuminated high-rise buildings suspended from the ceiling, creating a surreal and striking scene that’s sure to catch the eye of both kids and adults.
Walk Through the Historic Farley Post Office Lobby and People-Watch from the Balcony
On Level One, you can look out over the Main Concourse from the balcony, watch the flow of travelers below, and take in the scene. While you’re upstairs, take a moment to check out the James A. Farley Post Office, a piece of history that’s been well-preserved. Kids can send a letter or postcard from the USPS, buy stamps, or just explore the lobby.
Look up at the ceiling to see the seals representing the countries in the Postal Union of 1914. Fun fact: The well-known Postal Service motto, “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds,” comes from an inscription above the 8th Avenue entrance.
Check Out the Nearly 5,000 Pound Clock
Hanging 25 feet above the Main Concourse floor, this massive clock measures nearly 12 feet tall and over 6 feet wide. It’s hard to miss! If you’re curious about how it was installed, check out a video showcasing the impressive teamwork by the engineers and tradespeople who made it happen.
Spot Albert, a Stone Eagle Head from the original Penn Station
Tucked inside a small display case in the LIRR Ticketing Customer Service area (across from the escalators for Tracks 13 through 16 on the Main Concourse level), you’ll find “Albert,” a 45-pound stone eagle head. This piece is part of sculptor Adolph Weinman’s original set of 22 eagle sculptures that once decorated the cornice of the 1910 Pennsylvania Station. The eagle was saved by mechanic Albert Fritsch and has been preserved as a piece of history.
Look for the Big Postmark in the Floor
Down at the base of the grand stairs in the Midblock Hall, right by Moynihan Food Hall, you’ll spot a large postmark medallion set into the floor. It’s a nod to the building’s history, blending mail and train travel.
Check Out the Baggage Claim Mural for a Quick History Lesson
Head to the Amtrak Baggage Claim area on the Concourse Level, where you’ll find a wall-to-wall photo mural that tells the story of the original Pennsylvania Station and the Farley Building. The modern train hall was built inside the landmarked structure, keeping much of the original design intact.
Enjoy a Free Performance in the Main Concourse
The Moynihan Music Series brings lively performances by a variety of talented musicians and groups, in partnership with Sing for Hope. You can catch live music every Tuesday and Thursday this month from 4-6 pm in the Main Concourse, right in front of the LIRR Ticketing area.
Watch Trains from the Underground Observation Windows
Head down to the lower concourse, near the A/C/E subway lines, where kids (and train enthusiasts) can safely watch trains coming and going at one of the busiest stations in the Western Hemisphere. The large glass windows offer a great view of the action below.
Check Out the High Line via the Moynihan High Line Connector
Just two blocks from the train hall, you can hop onto the High Line through the High Line-Moynihan Connector. This elevated park stretches 1.45 miles, taking you all the way to the Meatpacking District. Known for its public art installations, the High Line is home to pieces like a 20-foot-tall pigeon named Dinosaur, which is currently perched nearby.
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