The New York Museum of Transportation is now open for the season Sundays only, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and group visits on weekdays can be made by appointment.
Train rides on the only electric trolley operation in New York State are normally offered with admission each Sunday through October 28. Recent windstorm damage has forced the temporary suspension of trolley service until further notice. A program of mini-events has been scheduled for each Sunday and are free with specially reduced admission prices that are in effect until the trolley rides resume. Check website for availability.
Inside the museum a variety of trolleys, a steam locomotive, and road vehicles on display provide a unique hands-on learning experience. Several model railroads, gallery, and gift shop are also featured.
•June 17 (Sunday) – Father’s Day Special – Dads and Grandfathers receive free admission when each is accompanied by a youth(s) age 3 to 12.
•July 7 (Saturday) – Trolleys at Twi-Light – Many trolley companies across the country created popular amusement parks and picnic grounds. The New York Museum of Transportation recreates an evening at an old-time “trolley park” with the happy sound of the calliope providing the background for authentic trolley rides through the rolling hills. Complimentary ice cream treats will be provided for all attendees. Special hours: 4 p.m. to dusk.
•July 22 (Sunday) – S.T.E.M. Event for ages 3 through 12 – A STEM event (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) for young inquiring minds will provide hands-on activities that demonstrate the simple machines and technology at work in various modes of transportation. There will be make-and-takes, a scavenger hunt, a raffle, and trolley rides, as the youngsters pass from one “station” to the next, developing skills in a variety of subjects. Adults $8, children $12. By preregistration only (www.nymtmuseum.org/STEM).
•August 3, 4 and 5 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) – Monroe County Fair – The museum is right next to the Monroe County Fairgrounds in Rush, so come enjoy the Fair and add a trolley ride to the fun. Friday the museum trolley will be operating special hours during the day. On Saturday and Sunday, the full museum will be open and rides will be included with admission.
•August 12 (Sunday) – Railroad Day – Thrill to the romance of the rails with velocipede rides, “Gandy Dancer” track work demonstrations, model railroads, hobos, and much more. Trolley rides on the museum’s railroad bring back the clickety-clack on the rails as the 90-year-old trolley travels the scenic run.
•September 9 (Sunday) – Strong Sunday – Take an entertaining trip through the history of transportation and transportation toys with Chris Bensch, Vice President for Collections and Chief Curator of the Strong Museum as he presents Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Transportation Toys at The Strong Museum. The talk is free with regular museum admission, which also includes trolley rides through beautiful rural countryside.
The museum is located at 6393 East River Road, West Henrietta. For details: 533-1113 or info@nymtmuseum.org.
