Shop the Season: NYC Subways Circa 1980

Fashion Herald Intern, Craig, takes a break from 34th Street to visit The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park.

As New Yorkers, I think it's easy to forget the rich culture that surrounds us daily. I go to school where the New York Times was originally published, I live in a building that was once the world's largest hotel, and I travel around the city in tubes that were built in the 1900s.

If you need a gift for a history buff or just a plain old New York fan, head to NYC Subways circa 1980 for some incredible photography of our great mass transit system. Upon entry, you're greeted with rows of prints and t-shirts made from the owner, John Conn's, photography. The greatest part of this stand is the story behind each photo. For instance, in the photo on the left the officer's name is George Washington and his dog's name is King. Officer Washington is now retired, and I'm not sure what King is up to.

I think my favorite picture would have to be this subway sign from Kings Highway. I usually ignore graffiti but how great is the line on the right side of the sign? "Disco is the best." I'm sure one of my parents wrote this. They're still under the impression that disco is the greatest genre of all time.

I think I might head back to this stand for a tote bag with one of John's pictures on it. The hardest part is choosing just one shot.

NYC Subways Circa 1980

Booth F09 in the NE corner of the park (map)

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park 

Official hours*  
Monday – Friday: 11am – 8pm  
Saturday: 10am – 9pm  
Sunday: 10am – 6pm

*Look for special extended hours as Christmas approaches. Some shops may be open on Thanksgiving and Christmas days.