Official Grand Central Terminal Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore iconic Vanderbilt Hall
- Discover the Whispering Gallery's acoustics
- Learn about the celestial dome's secrets
- Visit the hidden Campbell Apartment
- Uncover the terminal's architectural marvels
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Grand Central Terminal
- Access to restricted areas
- Historical insights and anecdotes
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
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.
Next, pop outside for a moment to gaze upon the largest Tiffany clock in the world from the busy Pershing Square plaza.
Heading back inside, it's time to travel back in time to the Roaring 20s and see a speakeasy style bar that, a century ago, served as the private office of one of New York’s most prominent railroad tycoons.
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.
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.
Pass by: Chrysler Building (pass by)
Pass by: New York Transit Museum Gift Shop (pass by)
Meeting point
Start Location
Grand Central Terminal, New York, NY, USA
Important information
Know before you book
- Tours are conducted in English
- Photography is allowed during the tour
- The tour is wheelchair accessible
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour starts
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Walks / Devour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
- The tour is in English.
- This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
- Grand Central Terminal is accessible to all persons with disabilities. There are public elevators and ramps to help people move smoothly through the Terminal.
Traveler reviews
Thanks for the tour
Anna is a great tour guide. Many details on the tour. Very enjoyable and informative
Incredible Grand Central Tour!!
Anna is INCREDIBLE!!! Thank you for such an informative tour into the rich history of the New York Grand Central Terminal/Station!! Its tour guides like this that make our experiences experiences and memorable!!
Aaron was amazing
What a phenomenal tour with a phenomenal tour guide. We thoroughly enjoyed learning all about Grand Central with a true New Yorker who has a passion for his city. His knowledge was amazing. We also got a bonus visit to the lobby of the Chrysler Building. The only negative was we couldn't find the meeting spot. It is hidden in a corner of the main station lobby under a small awning. Something more visible would be helpful.
Outstanding experience
Do NOT follow the Meeting point GPS link it takes you across the street. Meeting point is Main Concourse near the globe clock. Zizi greeted us at the ticket window, so friendly and helpful. Aaron led the tour. He is so knowledgeable about the history and people who made GCT such a great place. If you have time for lunch, The Oyster Bar was great.
Grand Central Terminal
Excellent tour. Duane did a wonderful job presenting the history of Grand Central Terminal in a fun way.