Broad Street Aqueduct and Abandoned Subway
Explore Rochester's forgotten subway tunnels, a canvas for incredible street art and a relic of Erie Canal history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for eerie photos
Broad Street Aqueduct and Abandoned Subway
Best Time
Best for eerie photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Rochester's forgotten subway tunnels, a canvas for incredible street art and a relic of Erie Canal history.
"A beautiful and sad place with incredible drawings and a fascinating piece of local history."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Graffiti-Covered Tunnels
Abandoned Subway Tunnels
Vast underground passages adorned with vibrant, ever-changing street art and graffiti. A photographer's dream.
Erie Canal Remnants
Underground
Discover where the Erie Canal once flowed, now a historic backdrop to the abandoned subway.
Urban Exploration Adventure
Various Entrances
Experience the thrill of exploring a forgotten piece of Rochester's infrastructure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Safety First in the Tunnels
Embrace the Art and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
📸 Night Sight Photography
If you have a Pixel phone, use Night Sight for incredible photos of the graffiti at night.
👥 Go with a Group
Exploring with friends enhances safety and the overall experience.
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.
🔦 Bring Powerful Lights
Your phone flashlight might not be enough. Pack strong, reliable lights for visibility.
📸 Night Sight Photography
If you have a Pixel phone, use Night Sight for incredible photos of the graffiti at night.
👥 Go with a Group
Exploring with friends enhances safety and the overall experience.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and potentially wet ground.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Other entrances exist, but may be less safe or accessible.The tunnels are located in Rochester, NY. Access points vary, with the area near Dino BBQ being a popular starting point.
Some suggest entrances behind Nick Tahou Hots as well.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.
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.
Currently, there are no official guided tours for the abandoned subway tunnels. Exploration is typically done independently by urban explorers and photographers.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Always exercise caution and respect the property.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.
Yes, photography and videography are very popular in the tunnels due to the street art and historical atmosphere.
Many creators share their explorations on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.📸 📸 Photography
Nighttime offers an eerie and powerful atmosphere, especially with a Pixel phone's Night Sight.
Daytime can provide better visibility for capturing the details of the graffiti and architecture.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.
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.
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.
Themes often include urban decay, street art, historical remnants, and the eerie atmosphere of abandoned spaces.
🎫 🤔 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.
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.
Some areas are better lit and safer than others.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.
The subway was built in 1927 and closed in 1956. The tracks were laid in the former Erie Canal bed to bypass downtown Rochester.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers and Art Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Rochester's Subway History
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.
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.
Navigating the Tunnels: Safety and Access
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.
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.
The Artistry of the Underground
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. The sheer scale and creativity on display are a testament to the thriving urban art culture in Rochester.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit