10. Columbus Circle (IRT) Station

Columbus Circle subway terra cotta

The 59th Street Subway Station aptly has terra cotta tiles that relate to the eponym of the roundabout under which the subway station is located, Christopher Columbus. The tiles depict ships, which are usually described as being Columbus’ caravel (a highly maneuverable 15th century sailing ship), the Santa Maria. However, some of the more nautically inclined individuals who study such minutia argue that it is either a different ship, or attention was not paid to detail. When the station was restored a few years ago, some early prototype tiles were discovered, which the MTA pledged to exhibit (though they still appear to be hidden). Check out our previous coverage of the hidden secrets of the Columbus Circle Subway Station.

Underground NYC Subway Tour

Tourgoers look at an art installation at the 14th Street subway station