A Guide To The Iconic NYC Grand Central Station
New York City’s iconic Grand Central Terminal may seem like just another train station but to locals, it’s so much more than that. As one of the world’s most iconic train stations, Grand Central is home to more than 250 retailers, attracting millions of visitors every year.
With so much space to explore, how will you know where to go? The following guide will show you the best things to do in and around Grand Central Terminal.
What Is Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal (GCT) is a historic train station in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It is one of the world’s most iconic buildings and the center piece of New York’s Central Park. Grand Central Terminal is what New York’s “downtown” was called in the 20th century, as the city’s main rail hub at the time.
Grand Central is an important transportation hub, with connections to Amtrak, NJ Transit, Metro North, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), New Jersey PATH and numerous bus lines. The terminal also serves Metro-North’s Harlem Line to Connecticut and Amtrak’s Adirondack line connecting with Montreal in Canada.
The Beaux-Arts building that houses the station is itself a grand landmark, with vaulted ceilings nearly 30 feet above the ground and a murmur of movement as the trains pass overhead.
Do The Vanderbilts Still Own Grand Central Station
No, the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) bought the Grand Central Terminal for $33 million in 2020. The deal also includes the Harlem and Hudson Lines and is the first time in history that the MTA has owned both the tracks and the terminal at the same time.
Is Grand Central Station The Biggest Train Station In The World
Grand Central Terminal in New York City is spread over approximately 49 acres and has 44 platforms and 67 train tracks on two different levels. This makes it the world’s biggest train station in terms of number of platforms and it’s sheer size, also makes it the biggest in terms of area occupied. However, it is the largest train station in the United States in all categories.
Best Time To Visit Grand Central Terminal
While the weather can be sunny and nice at any time of the year, March to May are the best times to visit Grand Central Terminal where the crowds are not as bad as the peak of summer or in the December Xmas season. It’s also a nice time to visit because the temperatures are cool but warm enough not to need to wear heavy clothing.
The crowds are heaviest during the week, especially on Friday and Saturday but it won’t be as crowded on a Sunday unless there’s special events happening. March to May is also a great time to visit because it’s less expensive than a trip in the summer months of July and August, when it’s too hot and crowded, as there are sometimes great deals to be had before peak season kicks in.
Why Is Grand Central Station Famous And How Old Is It
Grand Central Station in New York City is a world-famous landmark and transport hub in Midtown Manhattan that opened for public use on February 2, 1913 making it over 100 years old and one of the oldest in use railway stations in the world.
Its long and rich history is born out of immense wealth and fantastic engineering in the early 20th century which still stands the test of time.
The station is also one of the world’s top ten most visited tourist attractions with over 22 million visitors in 2019 making it the most popular train station in the world.
Where To Eat In Grand Central Terminal
If you want to eat at a place that’s famous for its NYC eats, try the Oyster Bar and Grill located just outside of the main lobby of the terminal at Grand Central Station. This is one of the most famous restaurants in the city, not just for its oysters and Manhattan clam chowder but also for its amazing history.
This is a more casual dining option, with a restaurant and bar open 24 hours a day. Another great place to eat is at the Grand Central Market which is located on the ground floor of the station. Here, you can find typical American cuisine, as well as a variety of other ethnic options.
Best Shopping In Grand Central Terminal
One of the most iconic features of Grand Central Terminal is the huge clock above the main concourse. While you can find a few clocks and watches at the terminal, it’s the famous, giant clock that stands above the concourse and captures the attention. There are two floors dedicated to shopping at Grand Central Terminal.
On the lower level, you’ll find the Grand Central Market, which is full of delicious and affordable eats for all tastes. If you’re looking for a more upscale shopping experience, head upstairs to the Vanderbilt Hall. This is another one of New York City’s most iconic buildings, and you can find some of the best shops in the city here.
Best Sights And Landmarks In Grand Central Terminal
The most iconic feature of Grand Central Terminal is the giant, 65-foot by 70-foot clock above the main concourse. This is where time stands still in New York City, with the time displayed prominently on the clock’s face. If you want to see more of New York’s most iconic sights and landmarks, head to the Empire State Building.
This is the most famous building in New York City, and it’s right next to Grand Central Terminal. You’ll also find some great restaurants in this area, like the restaurant at the top of the Empire State Building.
If you want to see more of the city, check out the Statue of Liberty. This is another iconic landmark in New York, and you can find it right next to Grand Central Terminal.
Final Words
As you can see, there’s so much to do in and around Grand Central Terminal. If you’re visiting New York City, be sure to stop by to see why everyone’s talking about it!
You can also take the trip down 72nd Street in midtown Manhattan, which is lined with movie theaters and other attractions and where you’ll find the famous, red-carpeted walkway leading up to Grand Central Terminal.