Welcome to the Grand Central Terminal, NYC
Did you know almost half of Manhattan’s population passes through Grand Central every day? This comprehensive self-guided walking tour in NYC uncovers the hidden secrets of this historic landmark, including the Sky Ceiling, Whispering Gallery, and iconic Information Booth & Clock.
Our New York city tours let you experience the city’s many wonders at your own pace. Do check our other New York city tours here.
About the Tour
This Grand Central Terminal tour begins just outside the terminal, on 42nd St. From here, you can admire the elegant entryway and learn about the statues that stand guard atop its grand entrance.
You’ll enter the station via Vanderbilt Hall, a beautiful space named for the station’s founders. Get the facts on the unbelievably wealthy Vanderbilt family and enter the Main Concourse, which you’ve seen in plenty of films and TV shows! This concourse is even more impressive in person, full of marble, crystal, and gold.
Next on this Grand Central Terminal audio tour, visit the famous clock and learn why it might just be worth $20 million! And did you know Grand Central practically invented time as we know it today? You’ll learn all about that while crossing the vast concourse.
Turn your eyes skyward next, toward the remarkable Sky Ceiling. Each constellation painted here carries a special meaning, and you’ll hear all about that as you trace the beautiful paintings from one end of the ceiling. Plus, learn about when NASA damaged the Main Concourse with a rocket!
After that, you’ll unpack the hidden symbolism within the extravagant chandeliers and find out how the station’s employees get from place to place without crossing the busy concourse.
Then, visit the often-overlooked Station Master’s Office and hear about how part of Grand Central was once almost torn down by developers. Finally, head to the lower levels to visit the strange and wonderful Whispering Gallery and the lavish Oyster Bar, where New York’s Roaring ’20s have been beautifully preserved. This Grand Central Terminal tour adventure concludes here.
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Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: 42 St – Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10017, USA
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome/Introduction
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42nd Street Sculpture and Clock
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Vanderbilt Hall
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Main Concourse Summary
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The Information Booth & Clock
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The Ticket Windows
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The Sky Ceiling
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The Chandeliers
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The Walls of Glass
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The West Staircase
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The Station Master’s Office
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The New York Transit Museum
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Whispering Gallery
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Oyster Bar
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The tour typically starts just outside Grand Central Terminal, located on 42nd Street in New York City.
It is a comprehensive tour of New York City’s historic Grand Central Terminal, where you will learn about its hidden secrets and iconic features.
This walking tour covers Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall, Main Concourse, $20 million clock, Sky Ceiling with symbolic stars, chandeliers, Station Master’s Office, etc.
Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt family, opulent Main Concourse, Sky Ceiling constellation symbolism, famous clock, and NASA rocket damage are all covered in the tour.
The walking tour typically concludes at the lavish Oyster Bar located in the lower levels of Grand Central Terminal.
Yes, there are other self-guided walking tours available for exploring different parts of New York City. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours to discover the city’s history, culture, and hidden treasures at their own pace.
Grand Central Terminal, a New York City transportation hub, is famous for its architecture and culture.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
