Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is not just a transportation hub; it’s a New York City icon and a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture.

Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this historic train station has been serving commuters since its opening in 1913.

Designed by the architectural firms Reed & Stem and Warren & Wetmore, Grand Central is known for its stunning Main Concourse, which features a soaring ceiling adorned with a celestial mural depicting the constellations.

The terminal's iconic four-faced opal clock, located at the center of the concourse, is one of the most recognizable meeting points in the city.

Grand Central is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a destination in its own right.

Size: Grand Central Terminal covers 48 acres and has 44 platforms, more than any other train station in the world.

Passengers: Approximately 750,000 people pass through Grand Central every day, making it one of the busiest transportation hubs in the world.

Ceiling Mural: The Main Concourse ceiling mural, created by French artist Paul César Helleu, depicts the zodiac and constellations in reverse order, a mistake that was discovered after its completion.

Clock: The four-faced clock at the center of the Main Concourse is valued at over $10 million, with each face made of opal.

Whispering Gallery: Located near the Oyster Bar, the Whispering Gallery is a unique acoustic phenomenon where a whisper at one corner of the gallery can be heard clearly at the opposite corner.

Vanderbilt Hall: Originally the main waiting room, Vanderbilt Hall is now used for special events and exhibitions and was named after the Vanderbilt family, who built the terminal.

Hidden Track: Track 61 is a secret platform under the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, used by Franklin D. Roosevelt to discreetly enter the hotel via his private train car.

Restoration: In the 1990s, Grand Central underwent a major restoration to return it to its original splendor, including the removal of decades of grime from the ceiling mural.

To fully appreciate Grand Central Terminal, it’s best to visit during different times of the day, depending on your interest.

Early mornings are ideal for those who want to experience the terminal in relative tranquility before the rush of commuters. Arriving around 7:00 AM allows you to take in the beauty of the Main Concourse and its architectural details without the crowds.

Midday, especially during lunchtime, brings a lively atmosphere as people gather at the various eateries and shops.

If you’re interested in photography, late afternoon offers beautiful lighting through the terminal's large windows, casting dramatic shadows across the concourse.

Evening visits provide a different ambiance, with the terminal’s lights casting a warm glow over its marble surfaces.

Grand Central Terminal is open daily from 5:30 AM to 2:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to explore its many facets.