How to Get to the Freedom Tunnel

Last Updated: January 11, 2023

Located in New York City, The Freedom Tunnel was once the home of anywhere between a few hundred or a few thousand homeless people living in makeshift houses. In the 90s, Amtrak forcibly removed them, and the Freedom Tunnel became a haven for graffiti artists. A few miles of history and art, the freedom tunnel is a must see for any urban exploration enthusiast. It's very easy to access, and you shouldn't need any equipment.

Steps

1
Take the 1 train to 125th street.^{[1]
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Walk underneath the bridge until you come to an overpass. The tracks are now above you.^{[2]
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3
Walk up the hill and slip through the gap between the fence and the overpass.^{[3]
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4
Follow the tracks until you reach the tunnel.^{[4]
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At the end of your journey, you'll exit the tunnel and find yourself fenced into a sort of pen. Simply hop this fence using one of the overpass pillars, and walk to Riverside Park.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I legally graffiti the tunnel?

Community Answer

No, if you are caught, you will be prosecuted for vandalism and trespassing.
Question

If I go into tunnel to check it out, but don't do graffiti in it, will I be arrested?

Community Answer

Even if you don't do graffiti, you will possibly be arrested for trespassing.

Literature and Documentaries

Cinematographer Marc Singer made in the excellent movie 'Dark Days', anthropologist and journalist Teun Voeten wrote the very detailed 'Tunnel People', photographer Margaret Morton made the photo book 'The Tunnel'. All these productions focus on the Freedom Tunnel and the homeless people that where living there in the mid 90ies.

Warnings

The tracks are still in use, even if the tunnel isn't. Every hour or so a train will pass by. Face away from passing trains so as to not get dirt in your eyes.

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This is considered trespassing - keep this in mind as it is actively patrolled by Amtrak Police.

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