Archtober's Festival Itineraries offer a curated selection of festival events, handpicked by a thought leader, editor, or creative mind we admire in New York City. Our second itinerary for the 2026 festival comes from Data Vandals, the festival's partner for its newsstand activation at the 51st Street, 6 Train, Downtown platform.

Data Vandals is a New York City-based duo, comprised of artist Jen Ray and data visualization designer Jason Forrest, who turn public data into community conversations. Since April, they have run a former newsstand on the downtown 6 platform at 51st and Lexington as part of the MTA's Vacant Unit Activation Program.

This Archtober, the festival has teamed up with Data Vandals for a newsstand takeover featuring infographics that explore the stories of nearby midtown architecture, above and below the street level. Stop by every Friday and Sunday, 3–6 pm, to learn about the architecture that lives around us and take one of the many sticker surveys.

Check out what Data Vandals has their eye on this Archotber and start planning your own itinerary!

1. Building of the Day: Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center on October 2

This Recreation Center is amazing. It's huge, airy, and modern! It's also an ongoing conversation about what public architecture is for. We can't wait to see this in person! Learn more here: Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center.

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2. NYC Underground Subway Tour on October 16

The Data Vandals are always looking for "subway moments" and ways to spend even more time underground. A secret railroad? Guastavino tilework? You already had us at ghost station! Register here: NYC Underground Subway Tour.

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3. The Work of Guastavino at the Cathedral on October 13

Guastavino's tile is such a part of NYC life; you may not even realize how often it pops up around you. But Guastavino at the Cathedral? That's taking it to another level. Register for the lecture and reception here: The Work of Guastavino at the Cathedral.

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4. Building of the Day: Nolen Study Room, Thomas J. Watson Library at the Met on October 15

A reading room inside a library inside a museum—a beautiful oasis of calm; we can't wait to take a break and learn more about this beautiful space. Secure your spot on the tour: Nolen Study Room, Thomas J. Watson Library at the Met.

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5. Grand Central Nightcap Tour on October 2

We’re Grand Central Fanatics! So much to explore, and this tour will really scratch that itch to learn more. Plus, it's glamorous and adventurous. It's your choice, but I plan to dress up in sequins! Learn more and register here: Grand Central Nightcap Tour.

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6. Building of the Day: Luis Lopez Playground Modular Public Restroom on October 17

An architect-led tour of a public restroom is the most Archtober thing on the calendar. More toilets, please! And make them all look like this! Learn more and register here: Luis Lopez Playground Modular Public Restroom tour.

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7. Powering NYC: East River Ferry Tour on October 18

Every New Yorker knows that the most exciting way to see NYC is on a fast-moving ferry on the East River. On this tour, you will see so many sights: old shipwrecks, Hell Gate, abandoned islands, and a huge steam plant. As our Archtober friends know, the Data Vandals are very interested in steam, so we can't wait! Register to explore the east river: Powering NYC.