NYC: Official Grand Central Terminal Tour

New York, US
95% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (230 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Local english-speaking guide
  • inclusion
    Expertly guided walking tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Hotel pick-up/drop-off
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. Tour meets at Tour Information Booth in the Main Concourse of Grand Central Terminal. If you are standing at the clock, the Tour Information Booth is located to right of the Harlem & Hudson Line Departures

Meeting point

New York, NY 10017 , United States

End point

End Point

Transit Museum, Grand Central Terminal

Meeting point

89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Grand Central Terminal

Your adventure begins in Grand Central Terminal’s modern-day heart: the lively main concourse. Marvel at the famous clock perched atop the information booth—and learn the eye-watering amount it’s rumored to be worth—as your guide regales you with the story of Cornelius Vanderbilt, the mastermind behind Grand Central Depot (as it was originally called). From there, head into Vanderbilt Hall, itself a living testament to Grand Central’s rags-to-riches transformation in the 1980s.

Duration 15 minutes
2

42nd Street

Next, pop outside for a moment to gaze upon the largest Tiffany clock in the world from the busy Pershing Square plaza.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Campbell Apartment

Heading back inside, it's time to travel back in time to the Roaring 20s. Step into a speakeasy-style bar that, a century ago, served as the private office of one of New York’s most prominent railroad tycoons.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Grand Central Terminal

After a foray into the Whispering Gallery, where you’ll learn just how whispered secrets travel across the busy interchange to be perfectly heard on the other side, you’ll get a peek at one of the largest lost-and-found departments anywhere in the world. Then, peruse the handcrafted designs and jewelry on sale from local artisans in the Graybar Passage before stepping into a fascinating former movie theater, where travel-weary youngsters could enjoy some entertainment back in Grand Central’s heyday.

Duration 35 minutes
5

Grand Central Market

Last but not least, you’ll weave through the colorful Grand Central Market before making your way back to the main concourse, having gotten a true insider’s look at the most famous train terminal in the world.

Duration 15 minutes
6

Chrysler Building

Chrysler Building (pass by)

7

New York Transit Museum Gift Shop

New York Transit Museum Gift Shop (pass by)

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Walks / Devour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
  • Additional information
    The tour is in English.
  • Additional information
    This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • Additional information
    Grand Central Terminal is accessible to all persons with disabilities. There are public elevators and ramps to help people move smoothly through the Terminal.
Provided by Walks - USA

What our experts say

  • icon
    Arrive 15 mins early at the booth.
  • icon
    Don't miss the Whispering Gallery.
  • icon
    Visit the Grand Central Market after.
  • icon
    Check out the Tiffany clock outside.
  • icon
    Explore nearby restaurants for lunch.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step into the bustling history of New York City's Grand Central Terminal with the Official Grand Central Terminal Special Access Guided Tour. As the world's most famous train terminal, Grand Central is a captivating hub that has witnessed countless stories unfold within its iconic halls. Led by an expert guide, this exclusive tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into the secrets and treasures that make Grand Central Terminal truly magical.

What to Expect?

During this 90-minute tour, participants can anticipate a fascinating journey through the heart of Grand Central Terminal. The itinerary begins at the Tour Information Booth in the Main Concourse, right beside the Harlem and Hudson Line Departures. From there, the adventure begins with an exploration of Grand Central Terminal's modern epicenter, the lively main concourse. Marvel at the famous clock atop the information booth while learning about the visionary behind the terminal's creation, Cornelius Vanderbilt. Next, step outside to admire the largest Tiffany clock in the world from the bustling Pershing Square plaza. Travel back in time to the Roaring 20s as you enter a speakeasy-style bar that once served as the private office of a prominent railroad tycoon. Discover the secrets of the Whispering Gallery and explore the vast lost-and-found department. Immerse yourself in local artisanal designs and jewelry in the Graybar Passage, and step into a fascinating former movie theater, offering a glimpse into Grand Central's glorious past. Finally, wander through the vibrant Grand Central Market before returning to the main concourse.

Who is This For?

This tour is a must for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone curious about the captivating stories embedded within New York City's iconic landmarks. Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, the Official Grand Central Terminal Special Access Guided Tour offers a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city's rich history and architectural marvels.

Why Book This?

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Grand Central Terminal with this official tour. With exclusive access, you'll uncover hidden gems and little-known facts about this iconic landmark. The expert guide will take you on a journey through time and share fascinating anecdotes, bringing the terminal's history to life. As you explore the vibrant spaces of Grand Central, you'll gain an entirely new perspective on its scale and magnificence. This tour provides an intimate and immersive experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing, allowing you to truly connect with the pulse and spirit of New York City.

Good to Know

During the tour, be prepared to walk through various sections of Grand Central Terminal, immersing yourself in both its grandeur and hidden corners. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your sense of curiosity and adventure. Please meet your guide at the Tour Information Booth in the Main Concourse, situated to the right of the Harlem and Hudson Line Departures, next to the famous clock. After the tour, you can choose to visit the Transit Museum at Grand Central Terminal, adding to your exploration of New York City's vast transportation history.

Reviews

Visitors who have embarked on the Official Grand Central Terminal Special Access Guided Tour have hailed it as an illuminating and delightful experience. They commend the knowledgeable guides who expertly narrate the terminal's history and share engaging stories. Travelers were amazed by the hidden gems revealed during the tour, allowing them to discover a side of Grand Central they had never known before. The immersive journey through time resonated with visitors, leaving them with a profound appreciation for the terminal's architectural marvels. Overall, reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors highly recommending this guided tour as a captivating and enriching way to experience Grand Central Terminal.

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