Grand Central Terminal: New York’s iconic train station
Even if you're not planning to catch a train, Grand Central Terminal is a must-see. Far more than just a station, it's a true architectural masterpiece and cultural landmark.
What You Need to Know About Grand Central Terminal
- Grand Central Terminal is New York‘s main railroad station. It sits on 42nd Street in the heart of Midtown, between the Chrysler Building and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. The station occupies an entire block and notably interrupts the sight line of the prestigious Park Avenue.
- Grand Central Terminal has transformed dramatically over the decades. The original station opened in 1871 as Grand Central Depot. As rail traffic grew, it was expanded in 1900 and renamed Grand Central Station—a name New Yorkers still use today for both the subway station and the Grand Central Post Office.
- The expanded station soon proved inadequate. A collision between two steam trains in 1902 killed 15 people and made a larger facility urgent. Between 1903 and 1913, the station was rebuilt and renamed Grand Central Terminal, its current name. The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
- Today the station has 44 platforms and 67 tracks. More than 750,000 people pass through Grand Central each day.
What to See in Grand Central Terminal
- Push through the heavy wooden doors and enter the main concourse—the heart of the station. It’s breathtaking. Arched windows flood the space with soft natural light, while the ceiling displays a starry sky as you’d see it from the Mediterranean coast in winter, with 2,500 stars. This monumental work was created in 1912 by French artist Paul Helleu.
- At the center of the concourse stands the information booth, topped by Grand Central’s iconic four-faced clock. The clock is made of opal and was once valued at $10 million by an auction house. In reality, it’s priceless. You’ll also notice the large train departure board—with a clever detail: departures are posted one minute early, giving late passengers a little extra time.
- Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, also called the “whispering corner.” Head to the Dining Concourse, where all the bars and restaurants are located, and stand near one of the pillars. Whisper against it and your voice will carry clearly to the pillar directly across from you. It’s a fun experience to share with someone special.
- Surprisingly, the station also houses a tennis court. For details, see our article on Grand Central’s tennis court.
- If you’re hungry, the Dining Concourse has plenty of options. Try Junior’s cheesecake and chocolate cake—they’re excellent. For a drink, visit the charming Campbell Apartment, a cozy bar tucked into a corner of the station.
Visiting Grand Central Terminal
- Address: 89 East 42nd Street, between Vanderbilt Avenue and Park Avenue. The station is in Midtown.
- Subway: Grand Central – 42 St.
- Hours: Grand Central Terminal is open daily from 5:30 am to 2 am.
