Looks like you saw one of the NYC Transit Museum trains. We live in New York City and the museum, in an old subway station in downtown Brooklyn, is a favorite.
Several times a year they roll out old trains. Many people dress up circa 20's, 30's, 40's, etc. People wear period outfits (men with fedoras!).
Anybody can get on at the stations they stop at.
From the photo my guess is that the train was headed to Yankees stadium for the playoffs against Minnesota Twins although the 1 line does not go to the stadium.
There is a HO layout in the basement of an apartment building in Long Island City/Astoria: Queens County Model Railroad Association
Conrad