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
When I first walked into Grand Central Terminal, I felt absolutely tiny. The sheer magnitude of the station is jaw-dropping, and it instantly makes you feel like you’ve stepped into something timeless and grand. The attention to detail in the design is stunning, from the constellation ceiling to the elegant stonework, every inch feels intentional and full of history.
On top of all that beauty, the station is easy to navigate. Signs are clear, the layout makes sense, and it never feels as overwhelming as you’d expect for such a massive place.
It’s not just a train station, it’s a masterpiece. The mix of movement, architecture, and atmosphere makes you want to slow down and take it all in. Definitely one of those places that makes you appreciate both the scale and the beauty of New York.
Nick Swainston - 2 weeks ago
Visiting Grand Central Terminal is like stepping into a piece of New York’s living history. The grand architecture, the celestial ceiling, and the constant energy make it more than just a train station — it’s an icon. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at the famous food court or just admiring the Beaux-Arts beauty, it’s a must-see.
Afterward, I hopped on a rickshaw ride outside, and it was one of the most fun and unique ways to explore Midtown. The driver was super friendly, offering fun facts and taking scenic routes past Bryant Park, Times Square, and the New York Public Library. The open-air ride gave a great perspective of the city’s vibrant street life — all without the hassle of walking or traffic stress
Loves travel - a month ago
The building is big and so beautiful, it gives you a vibe of the past. You step in there and feel like you are traveling in time! I stayed on the balcony stairs for a while, just people watching and admiring the architecture. A must stop if you are visiting New York. There are shops and restaurants. It was clean everywhere, and I was so grateful for the AC on a very hot day outside.
Ma. Vie - a month ago
It’s more than just a train station 🚉, it’s a beautiful masterpiece! The ceilings looks heavenly! The station is clean, I could go on and on with how stunning it is 😊.
It’s easy to navigate through the concourses, nice places to eat and shop.
Kehinde Josephine Dada - a week ago
Grand Central Terminal is an iconic station of New York. It’s one of the premier attractions for the tourists offering a compelling blend of rich history, architectural details, exquisite dining, and diverse shopping. It has featured in many a movies.
It has a whispering gallery where whispering into one corner of the archways can be heard across the room or at the opposite arches, even in a crowded.
It is worth keeping aside couple of hours to visit this place while one is in New York
VENKATESH PRABHU - 4 weeks 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: hugh llewelyn - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Kanesue - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Giuseppe Milo (www.gmilo.com) - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Kanesue - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: beltz6 - cc license via Flickr