Broad Street Aqueduct & Abandoned Subway - Image 1
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Broad Street Aqueduct and Abandoned Subway

4.3
·192 reviews·Rochester, United States

Explore Rochester's forgotten subway tunnels, a canvas for incredible street art and a relic of Erie Canal history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Nighttime

Best for eerie photos

CrowdLow
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Broad Street Aqueduct & Abandoned Subway - Image 1

Broad Street Aqueduct and Abandoned Subway

Best Time

Nighttime

Best for eerie photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Rochester's forgotten subway tunnels, a canvas for incredible street art and a relic of Erie Canal history.

4.3
(192 reviews)

"A beautiful and sad place with incredible drawings and a fascinating piece of local history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Safest Entry Point

The gate near Dino BBQ offers a well-lit, safer entry to see the canal and graffiti.

🔦 Bring Powerful Lights

Your phone flashlight might not be enough. Pack strong, reliable lights for visibility.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Graffiti-Covered Tunnels

Graffiti-Covered Tunnels

Abandoned Subway Tunnels

Vast underground passages adorned with vibrant, ever-changing street art and graffiti. A photographer's dream.

TikTok
Erie Canal Remnants

Erie Canal Remnants

Underground

Discover where the Erie Canal once flowed, now a historic backdrop to the abandoned subway.

Reddit
Urban Exploration Adventure

Urban Exploration Adventure

Various Entrances

Experience the thrill of exploring a forgotten piece of Rochester's infrastructure.

TikTok+1
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Planning Your Visit

Safety First in the Tunnels

Urban exploration requires caution. Stick to well-lit areas, go with a group, and bring reliable lighting. Some tunnels have collapsed, so be aware of your surroundings. TikTokReddit

Embrace the Art and History

This isn't just an abandoned space; it's a canvas for incredible street art and a tangible piece of Rochester's past. Appreciate the graffiti and the history of the Erie Canal rerouting. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Nighttime
Why
Best for eerie photos
Crowd
Low
When
Daytime, Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, safer exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

bmo fked it up😔 #585 #urbex #cars #fyp #swag #abandond #rochester #viral #
@dmoneyurbex
226.3K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Safest Entry Point

The gate near Dino BBQ offers a well-lit, safer entry to see the canal and graffiti. Reddit

🔦 Bring Powerful Lights

Your phone flashlight might not be enough. Pack strong, reliable lights for visibility. Reddit

Tiktok this is an informational #news video meant to inform the public. #abandoned #rochester #buffalo #syracuse #niagarafalls #urbex #585 #716 #315
@emveeurbex
84.7K likes • 440.1K views
@jeffgood1234 shows the full range of emotions while trying one of the many 🆕 DIPS in the Grab and Go cooler here at Broad Street. 🏈 Just in time for tailgating‼️ Small and large sizes—lots of variety. Available NOW!🏃‍♂️
broadstbakery
34 likes • 0 views

📸 Night Sight Photography

If you have a Pixel phone, use Night Sight for incredible photos of the graffiti at night. Reddit

👥 Go with a Group

Exploring with friends enhances safety and the overall experience. TikTokReddit

My friend and I shopped local today for lunch. Then we got a sweet treat courtesy of a 24-year-old gift certificate for dessert and coffee at @broadstreetcafe That’s right. 24 years. Their gift cards don’t expire either. . It’s that kind of customer service that inspired me to write about them in The BRAVO! Way: Building a Southern Restaurant Dynasty. . . #Bookstagram #shoplocal #restaurant #b...
dawndugle
23 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Safest Entry Point

The gate near Dino BBQ offers a well-lit, safer entry to see the canal and graffiti. Reddit

🔦 Bring Powerful Lights

Your phone flashlight might not be enough. Pack strong, reliable lights for visibility. Reddit

📸 Night Sight Photography

If you have a Pixel phone, use Night Sight for incredible photos of the graffiti at night. Reddit

👥 Go with a Group

Exploring with friends enhances safety and the overall experience. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and potentially wet ground. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(192 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the abandoned subway tunnels a captivating blend of local history and vibrant street art, creating a unique and atmospheric experience. While the artistic merit and historical significance are widely praised, explorers are consistently reminded of the need for caution due to the unmanaged and potentially unsafe conditions within the tunnels. TikTokReddit

"This place was beautiful and sad at the same time. A lot of beautiful drawings (art) down there. It's the abandoned subway in rochester new York."

Barbara Kester

"The Rochester Abandoned Subway is a fascinating piece of local history and a unique spot to explore. Walking through the remnants of the old subway tunnels feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by urban decay and incredible street art that gives the space an eerie yet artistic vibe. The graffiti and murals add a lot of character, making it a popular spot for photographers and adventure seekers. It's important to be careful and go with a group, as some areas can be unsafe. Overall, it's a must-see for anyone interested in urban exploration and Rochester’s hidden history!"

Carlos Castro

"Not for the feint hearted or easily scared (lile.me), that's for sure. I didn't get very far down the tunnel because my bike light wasn't powerful enough and the flash on in my camera failed anyway. But this is an awesome piece of history that looks like something out of the movie '28 Days Later'

Next time I'll bring a flashlight and a willing human being to hold my hand."

Rebecca M

What People Like

Stunning street art
Fascinating history
Eerie atmosphere

What People Dislike

Safety concerns
Poor lighting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Many explorers recommend the gate next to Dino BBQ as the safest and most accessible entry point. It leads to a well-lit section where you can see the canal and graffiti. Reddit Other entrances exist, but may be less safe or accessible. TikTok

The tunnels are located in Rochester, NY. Access points vary, with the area near Dino BBQ being a popular starting point. Reddit Some suggest entrances behind Nick Tahou Hots as well. Reddit

While specific public transport routes directly to the entrances might be limited, you can likely use local bus services to get close to the Broad Street area and then walk to the access points. Check Rochester's transit authority for current routes. TikTok

Yes, you can drive to the vicinity of the Broad Street Aqueduct. Parking availability may vary depending on the specific entrance you choose and the time of day. TikTok

Currently, there are no official guided tours for the abandoned subway tunnels. Exploration is typically done independently by urban explorers and photographers. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter the abandoned subway tunnels. Access is generally free, but it's important to be aware of safety precautions. TikTok

The abandoned subway tunnels do not have official operating hours as they are an unmanaged historical site. Explorers typically visit during daylight or nighttime hours, depending on their comfort level and photography goals. TikTok

While many people explore these tunnels, it's important to be aware of trespassing laws. Some TikTok creators mention being on public property or framing their content as informational. TikTok+1 Always exercise caution and respect the property. TikTok

There are no official restrictions, but it's advisable to bring only essentials like flashlights, cameras, and water. Avoid bringing anything that could be considered a weapon or cause damage. Reddit

Yes, photography and videography are very popular in the tunnels due to the street art and historical atmosphere. TikTokReddit Many creators share their explorations on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Nighttime offers an eerie and powerful atmosphere, especially with a Pixel phone's Night Sight. Reddit Daytime can provide better visibility for capturing the details of the graffiti and architecture. TikTok

A reliable flashlight or headlamp is crucial. A camera with good low-light capabilities is recommended, and a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the tunnels. Reddit

Look for areas with dense graffiti, interesting architectural features, and the remnants of the old subway tracks or Erie Canal path. The arches often provide a good vantage point for tunnel shots. Reddit

Experiment with different lighting angles and focus on the details of the murals. The contrast between the art and the decaying infrastructure is a key element. TikTok

Themes often include urban decay, street art, historical remnants, and the eerie atmosphere of abandoned spaces. TikTok+1

🎫 🤔 Onsite Experience

It's a fascinating historical site featuring the remnants of Rochester's subway system, now covered in vibrant street art and graffiti. It offers an eerie yet artistic atmosphere. TikTokReddit

Safety is a concern. While many explore, it's crucial to go with a group, have good lighting, and be aware of potential hazards like collapsed sections. TikTokReddit Some areas are better lit and safer than others. Reddit

You'll find a wide variety of graffiti and murals, from tags to elaborate pieces, created by local and visiting artists. The art is constantly evolving. TikTok

The subway was built in 1927 and closed in 1956. The tracks were laid in the former Erie Canal bed to bypass downtown Rochester. TikTokReddit

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven and potentially damp surfaces. Comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty is also recommended. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Exploring the abandoned subway tunnels with children requires extra caution and careful consideration. While the street art can be visually engaging, the environment is not designed for young children. Focus on the history and the art from a safe distance, perhaps by viewing photos or videos online before or after a visit. If you do decide to visit, ensure you have multiple, powerful flashlights and stick to the most accessible and well-lit areas, like the section near Dino BBQ. Never let children wander off, and always maintain close supervision. Consider it more of an educational experience through media rather than a hands-on adventure for younger kids. TikTokReddit

📸 Photographers and Art Enthusiasts

This location is a paradise for photographers and art lovers. The ever-changing street art and graffiti provide endless opportunities for unique shots. For the best results, consider visiting at night to capture the eerie atmosphere, especially if you have a camera with good low-light performance or a Pixel phone with Night Sight. Reddit Wide-angle lenses can help capture the scale of the tunnels and the art. Look for interesting compositions that combine the urban decay with the vibrant colors of the murals. TikTok+1

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by local history, the abandoned subway offers a tangible connection to Rochester's past. Learn about its origins as part of the Erie Canal rerouting and its brief operational life as a subway system. TikTokReddit While the tunnels themselves are the main attraction, researching the history beforehand can greatly enhance your appreciation of the site. Imagine the bustling transit system it once was, now silent and adorned with modern art. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Rochester's Subway History

The Broad Street Aqueduct and Abandoned Subway is a unique relic of Rochester's past. Opened in 1927, it was New York State's only underground transit system outside of New York City. The subway was built along the path of the rerouted Erie Canal, a fascinating intersection of infrastructure projects. Unfortunately, its operational life was short-lived, and it ceased service in 1956, leaving behind a network of tunnels that have since become a canvas for urban art. TikTokReddit

Today, these abandoned tunnels are a popular destination for urban explorers, photographers, and history enthusiasts. The combination of decaying industrial architecture and vibrant, ever-changing street art and graffiti creates a visually striking and somewhat eerie atmosphere. It's a place that evokes a sense of stepping back in time, offering a stark contrast to the bustling city above. TikTok+1

Exploring these tunnels requires a sense of adventure and a commitment to safety. While the artistic merit is undeniable, the structural integrity of some sections can be compromised, and proper lighting is essential. The experience is often described as both beautiful and haunting, a testament to the city's evolving landscape and the enduring power of art. TikTokReddit

Navigating the Tunnels: Safety and Access

Venturing into the abandoned subway tunnels requires careful planning and a strong emphasis on safety. While the allure of urban exploration is strong, it's crucial to remember that these are unmanaged spaces. Many explorers recommend entering through the gate near Dino BBQ, as it provides access to a more stable and well-lit section of the tunnel, allowing for better visibility of the canal remnants and graffiti. Reddit

Beyond choosing a safe entry point, reliable lighting is paramount. Phone flashlights may not suffice; bringing powerful headlamps or handheld lights is highly advised to navigate the darkness and spot potential hazards. It's also strongly recommended to explore with a group. Having companions not only enhances the experience but also provides an extra layer of safety in case of an emergency. TikTokReddit

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times. Some areas may have collapsed or have uneven footing. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to protect your feet. While the tunnels are a popular spot for content creation, remember that responsible exploration means respecting the site and prioritizing your well-being. TikTok+1

The Artistry of the Underground

The Broad Street Aqueduct and Abandoned Subway has transformed from a forgotten piece of infrastructure into a dynamic outdoor gallery. The stark, concrete walls of the tunnels serve as a massive canvas for a diverse array of street art and graffiti. From intricate murals to bold tags, the artwork adds a vibrant and often thought-provoking layer to the historical setting. TikTok

This underground art scene is constantly evolving, with new pieces appearing and old ones being painted over. It's this ephemeral nature that makes each visit potentially unique. Photographers are drawn to the dramatic interplay of light and shadow on the art, creating striking and atmospheric images. Reddit The sheer scale and creativity on display are a testament to the thriving urban art culture in Rochester. TikTok

For many visitors, the art is as much a draw as the history itself. It provides a contemporary narrative to the abandoned space, breathing new life into the old subway lines. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply appreciate visual creativity, the underground gallery offers a compelling and memorable experience. TikTok

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