Grand Central Station

Built in the early 1900s, Grand Central covers a massive 48 acres (19 hectares) and is full of architectural treasures such as opulent chandeliers and a “whispering gallery” with unique acoustic properties. People come and go through the station at all hours, making it one of the best spots in Manhattan for people watching.

Take a guided walking or audio tour to discover hidden platforms and rooms, learn the meanings of the different murals, and peruse the terminal’s many eateries. City tours often stop by Grand Central Station en route to other New York attractions such as Times Square or Central Park.

• The station and its restrooms are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• Don’t miss the monumental ceiling mural of the night sky over the main concourse, which features 2,500 stars.

• Keep an eye out for the secret platform, No. 61, which has an elevator connecting directly to the Waldorf Astoria hotel and was used by Franklin D Roosevelt.

• The Grand Central/42nd St. subway station is Manhattan’s busiest, so be prepared for crowds.

Grand Central Station is on 42nd Street at Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Lines 4, 5, 6, and 7 at the Grand Central/42nd St. subway stop and the 42nd St. Shuttle, which runs between Grand Central and Time Square, plus numerous buses serve it. It’s also accessible by foot, taxi, or as part of a walking tour. Metro-North Railroad commuter trains arrive here from suburban New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

The station is open from 5:30am–2am; hours may vary for individual shops, cafés, and restaurants inside. The main concourse gets very busy with commuters during morning and evening rush hours, so plan your visit outside these times.

Grand Central has its own European-style food market under the main terminal, between the Graybar building and the 4/5/6 subway lines. Vendors sell fruits and vegetables, handmade chocolates, fresh bread, gourmet meats and cheeses, and more.