Smith-9th Street Station
Experience breathtaking NYC skyline views from the tallest elevated subway station in the US. A free, iconic photo spot.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour and city lights glow.
Smith-9th Street Station
Best Time
Golden hour and city lights glow.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking NYC skyline views from the tallest elevated subway station in the US. A free, iconic photo spot.
"This subway has fantastic views. It feels like a proper tourist experience for free."
🎯 Northbound Platform Views
Head to the northbound platform for the best unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
This station is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs due to numerous stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Skyline Views
Northbound platform
Panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, especially stunning at sunset and night.
Tallest Elevated Station
Stand atop the highest elevated subway station in the US, offering a unique perspective.
Gowanus Canal & Drawbridge
Below the station
Observe the industrial charm of the Gowanus Canal and the operational drawbridge below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Elevated Views & Accessibility
Best Time for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Northbound Platform Views
Head to the northbound platform for the best unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
This station is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs due to numerous stairs.
📸 Capture the Cityscape
Bring your camera for incredible photo ops, especially during twilight and at night.
🚇 F & G Lines Only
Only the F and G subway lines stop at this station.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Northbound Platform Views
Head to the northbound platform for the best unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline.
🚶♀️ Be Ready for Stairs
This station is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs due to numerous stairs.
📸 Capture the Cityscape
Bring your camera for incredible photo ops, especially during twilight and at night.
🚇 F & G Lines Only
Only the F and G subway lines stop at this station.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible, free views of the Manhattan skyline from the tallest elevated subway station in the country. Many appreciate the unique perspective and photo opportunities, especially at sunset and night. However, the station's lack of accessibility due to numerous stairs is a significant drawback for families with strollers or those with mobility issues.
"Good place to get views of the NYC Subway with the Manhattan skyline in the background... if you get the NB side of the tracks. The other side, well there's a big fence between the tracks as one can see from my 8/2021 photos. Please be careful though!"
Joe K.
"This subway has fantastic views. It feels like a proper tourist experience for free. The only issue I had with this place is that there are a lot of stairs to go up and down. My friend and I had to carry a stroller for a lady because this station is inaccessible for strollers and wheelchairs, etc
Would recommend coming here, but the station could use some upgrades"
Adam N-A
"My friends, staff and I have been to this place years ago and had a wonderful experience. This is because the station is a tall station and below is a drawbridge and the views from the station was wonderful because can see the lower Manhattan from here. The F and G trains stops here at all times."
Jonathan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smith-9th Street Station is served by the F and G subway lines. You can take the F train towards Jamaica-179th Street or the G train towards Court Square.
Unfortunately, Smith-9th Street Station is not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs due to a significant number of stairs.
To get the best views of the Manhattan skyline, aim for the northbound platform.
Yes, the IKEA Brooklyn store is located nearby, and a shuttle bus passes right in front of the station.
Only the F and G subway lines stop at Smith-9th Street Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Smith-9th Street Station is a regular subway station. You can use your MetroCard or OMNY to pay for your fare on the F or G lines.
There are no entrance fees to access Smith-9th Street Station. It's a free public transit station offering great views.
Smith-9th Street Station operates 24/7 as it is part of the New York City Subway system. However, train service frequency may vary.
Yes, you can exit the train at Smith-9th Street Station to enjoy the views. Just be mindful of the station's accessibility limitations.
The northbound platform offers the most iconic views of the Manhattan skyline.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset and nighttime offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Manhattan skyline.
Generally, photography is allowed in NYC subway stations for personal use. However, avoid using tripods that obstruct passage and be respectful of other passengers.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the Manhattan skyline, train approaching the station, and the industrial landscape of Gowanus.
While the views are great, be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. The northbound platform offers the best views.
Yes, you can photograph the F and G trains as they arrive and depart from the station.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit, focus on the northbound platform for the best skyline views. Consider it a quick stop for a photo opportunity rather than an extended stay. The nearby IKEA also offers a family-friendly destination with a shuttle service from the station.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best times to shoot: Aim for sunset for golden hour light or after dark to capture the illuminated cityscape.
Don't forget to capture the F and G trains as they pass through. +1 Be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing pathways with equipment. 🚇 Public Transit Adventurers
+1Experience the unique perspective from the highest elevated station and appreciate the engineering that makes it possible. While it lacks accessibility features, its iconic status and views make it a worthwhile destination for any transit enthusiast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tallest Elevated Station in NYC
This elevated perspective is what draws many visitors, offering a free and accessible way to experience the grandeur of the New York City skyline. It's a popular spot for photographers and anyone looking for a memorable view without the cost of a skyscraper observation deck.
However, this height also means a significant number of stairs. Visitors should be prepared for a climb, as the station is not accessible for those with strollers or mobility challenges.
Navigating the F and G Lines
+1The G train, also known as the Crosstown Line, is unique as it primarily serves Brooklyn and Queens, with no direct service into Manhattan. It connects various Brooklyn neighborhoods and offers a vital link to Queens.
When planning your visit, remember that both lines stop at Smith-9th Street. The northbound platform offers the iconic skyline views, so ensure you're on the correct side of the tracks for the best experience.
Photography Opportunities
Golden Hour Magic: Visiting during sunset provides a spectacular opportunity to photograph the skyline bathed in warm, golden light. As dusk settles, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical ambiance.
Nighttime Spectacle: The station truly comes alive at night. The illuminated skyline against the dark sky offers dramatic and memorable photographic subjects. Consider long exposure shots to capture light trails from passing trains and the vibrant city lights.
Train Spotting: For enthusiasts, the station provides excellent vantage points to photograph the F and G trains as they approach and depart. The elevated perspective adds a dynamic element to train photography.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit