Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is the world's largest train station and helped shape the history of New York and America
Over one hundred years old, Grand Central Terminal was instrumental in shaping the history of New York and America. Locally referred to as "Grand Central Station," the Grand Central Terminal in midtown Manhattan is one of New York's busiest transportation hubs as well as a destination in itself complete with a wide range of shopping and dining choices. The Beaux-arts building built and operated by the New York Central Railroad is the largest train station in the world by a considerable margin.
Two levels of tracks offer passenger service for the Metro North Railroad with services to Westchester, Dutchess and Putnam in New York State and Fairfield and New Haven in Connecticut.
The century old Grand Central Terminal underwent a 12 year restoration to restore it to its former splendour from when it opened in 1913. The astrological ceiling mural in the Main Concourse was revealed after years of being obscured by residue. A small patch above the Michael Jordan Steakhouse was left untouched to demonstrate the extent of the environmental damage. Eagle eyed visitors will notice that the zodiac constellations appear in reverse; one explanation is that the artist based their rendering on a medieval interpretation of how the night sky would appear to God, while many others chalk it up to human error. The famous four-sided brass clock with its opal clock faces and many decadent gold chandeliers was also returned to its original luster.
One of Grand Central Terminals many oddities, the unofficial "whispering gallery" is located on the dining concourse near the Oyster Bar and Restaurant. The low dome ceilings create an acoustic anomaly; when two people stand opposite and whisper into the corner, you can hear them as if they are standing next to you making it a popular spot for uniquely New York marriage proposals.
Audio tours and walking tour brochures covering historically and architecturally significant features such as the Kissing Room, Grand Staircases, stain glass and wrought-iron installations as well as the Transportation sculpture are available from the Information Booth.
Nearby attractions: Chrysler Building and the New York Public Library
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoGrand Central Terminal Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
- Tuesday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
- Wednesday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
- Thursday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
- Friday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 5:15 AM – 2:00 AM
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Phone: (212) 340-2583
Official Website: Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal Reviews
Rated out of 5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stunning Architecture and Unforgettable Atmosphere!
My friend and I visited Grand Central Terminal while in New York from Montreal, and it was absolutely amazing! The moment we walked inside, we were blown away by the stunning architecture and the grand, timeless atmosphere. The main concourse is beautiful, with its high ceilings, iconic clock, and intricate details everywhere you look.
The energy of the place is incredible, bustling with people, yet somehow it still feels like a peaceful escape from the city. We spent time exploring the different shops and dining options, and each corner had something interesting to see.
Grand Central is truly a must-visit if you're in NYC – it’s more than just a transit hub; it’s a piece of history and a beautiful place to experience. Highly recommend stopping by!
Israa Hilles - 4 weeks ago
I always love going here. Even when I lived in NYC, it still never lost it's luster to me. It's a beautiful place to stop during your commute to or from the city. The high ceilings have beautiful artwork that I always like to gaze at. It's a great place to people watch, it's always active. Food options satisfy all diets. Bathrooms are on bottom level, I've never NOT seen a line for the ladies room. Go beforehand at home! staff in the info booth are helpful. Plenty of signage, plenty of security, normally fairly clean considering the lot of people that travel through in a day. We stopped at Zaros for the obligatory cookie.
Shannon Police - a week ago
Huge and beautiful! Unreal how much transportation goes thru there. But it's all kind of "hidden" and quiet until you go to the tracks. There's an underground area with eating places and bathrooms. The place is really something to see! The ceiling is really cool too. Neat place to visit.
Angela Hopp - a week ago
It is one of the most visited sites in New York City. It has been in so many movies. It's the largest train station in the world. Grand Central Terminal is spread over 49 acres, has 44 platforms and 67 tracks on two levels. It's the world's largest train station by number of platforms and area occupied. Recognized as a center of transportation, civic architecture, and commerce with lots of shopping and restaurants available. A must visit when visiting NYC. So meet me at the clock!!
Orrin H - a month ago
Grand Central Terminal is not just a train station; it’s a stunning architectural marvel. When I visited, I was amazed by its beauty and cleanliness—so different from the stations in my country. The iconic celestial ceiling, the grand hall with its massive windows, and the intricate details of the structure make it feel more like a historic landmark than a transit hub. The shops and restaurants add to the vibrant atmosphere, and even if you’re not catching a train, it’s a must-see when exploring New York. The station is a perfect blend of elegance and functionality!
Freeda Zachariah - a month ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4, 5, 6 or 7 | Grand Central Terminal | 0 minutes |
How to get to Grand Central Terminal by Subway
Take the 4, 5, 6 or 7 train to Grand Central Terminal.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Grand Central Terminal:
Photo Gallery
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Main Hall in Grand Central Terminal New York cc licensed photo by Monica Arellano-Ongpin -
Photo Credit: Kanesue - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Kanesue - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Kanesue - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Alexander Stutz - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Giuseppe Milo (www.gmilo.com) - cc license via Flickr
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