As with all major changes in New York City, the departure of the MetroCard has been met with mixed emotions—a heavy dose of nostalgia, some indifference, and enthusiasm. For those mourning the loss or celebrating the end of the MetroCard, we've rounded up all of the ways you can commemorate this chapter in subway history.
The bright yellow, swipe-able cards were introduced to New York City in 1994 when they replaced subway tokens (tokens were discontinued in 2003). Now, the tap-and-pay OMNY system has made MetroCards obsolete by allowing riders to pay with digital wallets, contactless credit cards, and reloadable OMNY cards. Though MetroCard sales end this week, you can still swipe into 2026. The final acceptance date is yet to be announced.
See a Museum Exhibit About the MetroCard
The Cardvaark, Courtesy of the New York Transit Museum
At the New York Transit Museum exhibit FAREwell, MetroCard, visitors can explore how the MetroCard revolutionized fare technology and became an iconic part of New York City culture. Rare and limited edition cards, a MetroCard Vending Machine prototype, Cardvaark ephemera (the never-launched MetroCard mascot), and more fascinating items will be on display.
Eat MetroCard Themed Food
Courtesy of Carvel®
A variety of New York City businesses have been offering limited-edition MetroCard themed snacks and meals since October. While supplies last, you can enjoy a blue and yellow sprinkled ice cream cone or MetroCard cake from Carvel (at participating locations), MetroCard and Cardvaark cookies at Zabar’s (2245 Broadway), and La Tessera sandwich (“the card” in Italian) at Alidoro. Check out all of the special food items here!
Watch a MetroCard Documentary
Still from In Memoriam: The MetroCard
New York based photographer and filmmaker Sophie Ming has created a cultural eulogy for the MetroCard with a new short film In Memoriam: The MetroCard. Debuting virtually on January 1st, 2026, the film captures how commuters across the city are processing the end of the MetroCard era. The film blends documentary interviews with a playful, street-level examination of a piece of plastic that shaped the rhythm of daily life for more than three decades.
Buy a Piece of MetroCard Art
Images Courtesy of Thomas McKean
Local artist Thomas McKean has immortalized the dying MetroCard in works of art. By cutting up MetroCards and piecing them together in new formations, McKean crafts intricate collages of city landmarks, objects, and slices of life. You can order original works, greeting cards, and prints on his website and have piece of the MetroCard in your home forever.
