Let's face it, Grand Central Terminal is somewhere you must visit whenever you're in NYC. Doesn't matter if it's your first or 100th time coming to the city, this building is just magnificent. My friend is big into old historical buildings with intricate architecture and I'll admit it, I like it too. This place is like a little city. Besides transportation, there's plenty of shops and restaurants. So much history in this building. I can't help but think of all those who had to say goodbye to their loved ones as they took their long travels out of this terminal. There's so many photo ops and it's soooo large, you can spend hours here exploring. read more

As the name itself says, it is indeed grand. Beautiful decor and a must stop in NYC even if you don't need to ride one. Always under construction in one side or another, this iconic NYC stop was as familiar and grand as ever. Considering how long I am staying here, I could no longer be taking taxis and uber all the time, so I got much better acquainted with the station and more and more I love this! read more

I came, I saw, I reviewed. The subway we were looking for was going to go past Grand Central Terminal, but since I wanted to hop off here for a quick look see, we decided to walk here and jump on the subway here. The green ceiling was cool. But we were a bit confused about which way we should head till I noticed the labeling above each archway. The changeover into the subway space was shockingly clear. read more

We visited Grand Central terminal several times during our visit and always felt awestruck each time. The word "grand" befits the property and a timeless opulence oozes from the building. The front facade is imposing as we approached from several blocks away and then entered a vestibule which felt like a time machine portal. Finally, the great hall with its robin egg blue ceiling depicting celestial themes stretched overhead mimicking the sky. We would sometimes wander down the hallways to visit shops and also utilized the access to transportation, the actual purpose of this place. Beautifully preserved spaces and will never grow weary of visiting. read more

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GCT: Once marred for demolition in the late 60s, THE TERMINAL was saved to become a National Historic Landmark and now serves as a world renowned Transportation Hub, offering easy access to MIDTOWN'S historic sites and tourist attractions. I grabbed a bite to eat on the Lower Level at the Dining Concourse. WORTH VISITING. read more

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New York's oldest and grandest Landmark status train terminal! Built in 1913 and well-preserved thanks to the horrible example of what happened to the old Penn Station on the west side, and thanks to Jackie Kennedy-Onassis. Grand Central Terminal (a.k.a. GCT) still stands today in all its glory. The terminal was built in the Beaux Arts design of the time 1913-1914. It is quite huge: covering 48 acres, GCT has 44 platforms, more than any other railroad station in the world! The platforms are all indoors on two levels, 30 tracks on the first level, and 26 tracks on the lower where there is a Food Hall. The Main concourse is famous for it's 162 foot high barrel vaulted celestial ceiling with an elaborate mural of the constellations of the stars! There are also ten beautiful chandeliers in the Beaux Arts design adorning the side hallways of the grand concourse lighting the area, besides the giant windows high above. There are many passageways consisting of many shops throughout. Occasionally the lovely Vanderbilt Hall section hosts Art installations and live performances. Since a I last wrote about GCT, the LIRR has been added to the many modes of transport at this landmark hub. Thus, adding on an extension for those out on the East End of Long Island, NY. GCT railroad primarily serves the Mero-North railroad lines made up of: the Harlem, the Hudson, and the New Haven Lines, traveling to and from the northern parts of New York state, and out eastward towards Connecticut (New Haven). There are also MTA city subway rails running through GCT: Trains # 4, 5, 6, of the Lexington Ave 'IRT' line, the #7 Flushing line to Queens, and the "S" Shuttle line Manhattan crosstown service subway line. GCT is of course extremely crowded & chaotic during the rush hours, but if you ever have the opportunity to visit on an early weekend morning, you can really stroll about and enjoy its architectural elegance and beauty in a more peaceful, civilized setting. read more

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Iconic historical building that you definitely must visit. The marble and iron work is spectacular and it's so awesome that this was built over 100 years ago and is still viable today. Upstairs are the terminal gates and downstairs are the restaurants and gates. That have plenty of dining options to choose from to help make the trip smoother. read more

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If you want to feel the pulse of New York, start beneath Grand Central Terminal. The subway corridors here aren't just tunnels they're an underground city packed with pizza counters, bakeries, espresso bars, and little shops humming with life. The smell alone could make a food lover stop mid-stride. Then come the musicians. Thanks to the Music Under New York program, the talent down there isn't your average street act it's concert-level. Opera singers, jazz bands, violinists the tiled halls turn the whole place into a free performance venue. And the people watching? Legendary. Suits, tourists, artists, the occasional character who looks like they just stepped off a Broadway stage. It's loud, chaotic, beautiful exactly what New York is supposed to be. Opened in 1913, Grand Central Terminal still moves hundreds of thousands of people every day. Grab a slice, listen to the music, and take it all in. This isn't just a station it's the living heartbeat of the city. read more

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I took a guided tour here which I signed up for on AirBnb experiences. It's a fascinating and clean place with the last pay phone in Manhattan, an incredible history, a hidden indoor tennis court, stunning art deco elevators, and many more sights to see! It was built by the Vanderbilts who at one point had more money than the US government. The sequential blew it all and sold this unique train station to help pay their ridiculous bills. Not a penny remains but this incredible train station lives on! Life is good with a fascinating and informative tour! read more

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Grand Central is truly the core of what New York City life is like. At least that's what it seems like from an outsiders (my) point of view. You walk in and really see the fast paced life that New York City is known for. People in business suits. People walking quickly and even running for their next train. Those making business calls with their satchel bags hanging across their bodies. It's truly a sight to behold. It's such organized chaos in the terminal. Then you go underground and there's shops and more trains. It's truly magnificient what this city has created. And thw architecture is so beautiful! read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Came here for a photoshoot with a photographer friend in the Main Concourse, which is the best-known area of the Grand Central Station. This is a beautiful building, and has been the site for many movie shots, including John Wick 3, The Avengers, Armageddon, Godzilla, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and The Girl on the Train. There's also a New York Transit Museum, where during the holidays there is a Holiday Train Show that's free to the public. A nice and free thing to check out in midtown Manhattan as a tourist. read more

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Iconic! It's unique for a place to be historical, a tourist attraction, AND practically useful. Grand Central is absolutely beautiful inside. It's crazy to me that people come through here every day as part of their normal routine. Also, you expect a train station to be dirty, rushed, and confusing, but Grand Central is none of these things. It's shockingly clean and quiet, and extremely easy to navigate, even for my directionally-challenged self. There are also a bunch of places to eat and shop inside-and not just places you'd go because of their convenient location, but genuinely good places. read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

Note: this review is for out of town visitors only, who may only stop through one time. Historic Grand Central Terminal is a very popular, must see when visiting New York City. From it's centralized location to it's grand architecture to the businesses located within, Grand Central Terminal offers something for everyone to see. Add in it's obvious transportation ties with so many NYC train/subway lines and you'll find yourself here. The New York Transit Museum satellite store is a great stop for kids and train fans. Has a model train layout and all the train merch you can want. The Grand Brasserie is also the nicest sit-down restaurant in the station and offers french cuisine in the ambience of Grand Central history. read more

My first time back inside since way before smart phones. I think I have some photos from 2001 burned on a CD-R somewhere... We were walking around Saturday night and decided to venture inside around midnight while it was still open until 1 AM and virtually free of people. What a great time to enjoy the architecture and no crowds at all. I got some great pictures without any people in them! I saw a video on the whispering room on the lower level, and decided to share that information with my friends and check it out ourselves. How neat! I cannot attest to the train service since the only times I've been here I was simply a tourist checking out the building. I highly recommend anyone visiting New York City to walk inside and experience the beautiful architecture and hustle and bustle of Grand Central Terminal. read more

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I happen to see Alicia Keys perform my first time in Grand Central so yeah, I read it really well. read more

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As a native New Yorker, i am always in awe when i come here. It's historic, beautiful and always had something new. I can only imagine how the tourist feel when they step in. It is always busy here but that's ok, doesn't take away from the beauty. There's an Apple Store and new restaurant that overlook this beauty. The lower level has quick bites and restrooms. There's plenty of places to shop at and plenty of ways to get here from the metro north to regular train. read more

A $700 million project to rehabilitate 3 subway stations below 42nd Street with new staircases, escalators, elevators and more was completed. The 42nd Street Connection involved renovations to the Times Square, Bryant Park and Grand Central stations. The work began in 2020 and was funded by the transit agency's previous 5 year construction plan. MTA officials said the project was completed $46 million under budget. 400,000 people pass through Grand Central daily. It now has 30 new turnstiles, 38 new or widened staircases, 10 replaced escalators, 10 replaced elevators and a wider mezzanine floor where riders pass through turnstiles before reaching platforms for the 4, 5, 6 and 7 trains. For years, construction on the project created crowded platforms & walkways. Lieber said the agency tried to consolidate small projects into one operation to reduce the inconvenience. The lower level court is incredible now with a huge Luke's lobster, Shake Shack, Melvin, Jaques Torres, Magnolia Bakery ... read more

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It's huge it's beautiful it's busy! It's full of rich history and architecture and marble and many other things for the eye to feast on! There's shopping to be had - food to eat - drinks to drink - and great people watching. The restrooms were very clean given the crowd! A must see if in the city! read more

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I did the tour of Grand Central and came away a little disappointed. The tour isn't bad, per se, but I found it to be more of a history lesson than a tour. Shawn was our guide, and he was great and gave off a John Michael Higgins vibe. He was very knowledgeable and engaging, but there is an insane amount of people there, which makes tours difficult to conduct, too. There were also multiple tours going on at the time, I don't know how, though, since there was only 1 option when I signed up and was limited to 20 people, and there were only 10 in our group. But a lot of it is more of a history lesson and learning than an actual tour. We didn't get to see the (old?) police station, and didn't see the Campbell apartment because there was an event going on. Even the other things, it was more like, 'this liquor store used to be a movie theatre'. There was nothing unique about it, and one could basically do the tour on their own for free; there was nothing that we had access to or given knowledge of that the general public doesn't or wouldn't know. Overall, the Terminal is a great historical. Plenty of dining options down below, too. But the tour itself is a mileage may vary time thing. And this goes without saying, but I'll say it anyway, if you're even the slightest bit agoraphobic, then you wouldn't last a few minutes here. read more

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Staying at the Hyatt next door and basically using this as my main source of transportation everyday, so easy to get around and the place itself like the name is just very grand. It's bright, high ceilings, tons of restaurants and coffee, even an Apple Store inside and tons of other shops. Staff is friendly, it's a beautiful train station and a rousing walk. read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Grand Central Terminal is one of those places that never loses its charm. The architecture is stunning--the celestial ceiling, the warm lighting, and the historic details make it feel truly iconic. Even with the crowds, the space feels organized and full of energy. I visited during the holiday season, and the wreaths and decorations added an extra touch of magic. Whether you're catching a train, grabbing a bite, or just passing through, this landmark is always worth a stop. Sharing a few photos and videos from my visit! read more

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It's Grand. Did you know that Grand Central Terminal is one of the most-visited destinations in NYC? And that it hosts about 25 large-scale and hundreds of smaller productions every year? When you walk inside, you know that you've somehow been here before. You've seen it on the big screens, you've read about it. It's definitely larger than life, and filled with people. If you have the time, take a tour. read more

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We were thinking that it was gonna be a big exhibition, where it was 2 floors of the trains running through New York Landmarks. It sat on a table and was small. Well I came I saw, now I can scratch that off my list. In the store As you can see they have all items dealing with NYC Transit. read more

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Some places in NYC are special. This is one of those places. Iconic train terminal, modern yet a classic tip of the hat to yesteryear. Easy to get around, although massive in size. Helpful folks to point you in the right direction or tell you what train to take to your destination. read more

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Always a stop to see the hustle and bustle of NYC. Definitely check out The Oyster Bar for a quick snack inside GCS. read more

Grand Central Terminal - Oyster menu at The Oyster Bar - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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One word to describe "Grand Central Terminal" - ICONIC! Many people also refer to this place as Grand Central Station but either way of saying it is fine. By the turn of the 20th century, New York City became a very successful commercial and cultural landmark. And with the alarming number of people moving here, this terminal officially opened its doors back in 1913. Since then, it has undergone numerous and cosmetic changes, upgrades, and retrofits to accommodate the thousands of passengers that pass through on a daily basis. Covering approximately 48 acres, the exact location of Grand Central is at 89 East 42nd St, Manhattan, New York City. It attracts an estimated 20 million passengers, commuters, and tourists from all walks of life. Throughout my life, I have been here on numerous occasions over the years. Every single time I re-visit, I see things that I did not see on my previous visits. As for the connecting trains and buses, you have the option of going to any of the boroughs as well as up north to New Haven, Connecticut as well as neighboring states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Since this is a centralized "hub", it is actually easier to navigate around than nearby "Penn Station" and "Port Authority". Truth be told, there are a lot of people that don't even visit here to take a connecting train, they come specifically to the "Main Concourse". This has been the backdrop to a countless number of movies, TV shows, and the perfect place to capture some breathtaking photos. Everything from the architectural layout and painted green ceiling to the marbled floors and Frieze display, this place resembles a museum more than a terminal. All of the terminal's primary departure boards are still in operation which looks more like an airport. And finally, the information booth is topped by a four-faced brass clock, one of Grand Central's most recognizable icons. As I mentioned, this place has gone through evolutionary changes to keep up with the times. You can download the MTA app that zeroes in the ETA of every arriving/departing train and I've gotta say, it is very accurate. Furthermore, there is an abundance of ticket stations where you can purchase a one-time ticket or the OMNY card; either through cash, card, or tap to pay. And at the very bottom floor, there are a TON of great eateries to choose from; bakeries, coffee, sandwiches, burgers, smoothies, sushi, and much more. Finally, they offer several public restrooms while navigating around here isn't as difficult as I once thought. All in all, the energy and excitement of "Grand Central Terminal" in the heart of Manhattan, NY is a place that any out-of-towner MUST check out if they visit the big city. Even if you are not taking any connecting trains or buses, visiting is an experience all in itself. With the history and legacy that this landmark has incorporated for well over a century, I am giving Grand Central Terminal a unanimous five-star rating. read more

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This was semi magical and semi chaotic.... We all have known to come across the Grand Central Terminal one time in our life before. From movies, to shows, to photography from people all around the world. The Grand Central Terminal has been a place of entertainment, history, imagination, and one of the top attractions for traveling in New York City. From Carlitos way, to Men in black to the Avengers. We have all visually experienced this historical landmark some time in our lives. On this day, I was thankful to have chosen to travel out of this terminal. Known for its grandeur symmetry, meticulous design and beaux-art style. This was a true pleasure to be in the midst of it all. Opened in 1913 after beginning a 10 year project from 1903. This was the central hub with 44 platforms more than any other station in the world now remains one of the top travel destination in NYC till today. A true beacon of fine design and innovation. So after this minor history lesson it was time to head onto our journey across the east coast to New Haven. I purchased the tickets weeks in advance on the MTA app and once we arrived it was time to ask the professionals at the box our usual "what, where's and how's" So after finding which platform we are supposed to be on, next you find which number you need to go to. Then you just wait till your train arrives. Once the train is cleared of the previous travelers, you sit down and the train starts moving. Then you need to activate your ticket and actually show the conductor that your ticket is in use. And I'll tell you what, those train conductor's really take their job seriously. So if you don't have a ticket you will be asked to purchase or off with your head! No, I'm just kidding, but they can fine you or have the police escort you off if you put up an argument. So make sure you got your tickets. Also news flash, there is off peak and on peak hours. If you wanna save a few bucks and are not in a hurry, off peak is the way to go. You'll save like 5 bucks doing that. Also children under 44 inches ride for free! It was a cool process. Plenty of seating, and plenty of your typical New Yorkers on the train. You'll experience people singing their rap tunes on blast, people on their phones no regard of your existence and your typical quiet traveler who just needs to get off on the next stop. Also make sure you know exactly where you are going, I noticed some people missed their stop cause either they didn't pay attention or fell asleep. Luckily I was the planner of this trip so we were all set and in good hands. All in all great experience. read more

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The Grand Central Terminal is more than just an elaborate movie set. Not only outside of the building is fantastic but also inside of it really beautiful. It is a staple of modern New York and one of the oldest landmarks in the city. About 750,000 people move through the terminal daily. Fact: The Grand Central Terminal has had a couple of names over its lifetime. It was once called the Grand Central Depot and the Grand Central Station. There are two levels and a balcony. You will find ticket booths, information, subway entry, and Metro-North tracks on the main level. Head off the corridors to visit the restaurants, shops, and markets. The lower level is a dining hall. The balcony level is for restaurants and the Apple store. A remarkable feature of the terminal is the whispering gallery. The arched shape of the ceramic tiled ceiling and walls creates a unique autistic effect. You can stand in opposite corners of the arches and whisper to each other. Grand Central Terminal has been served since 1913 and it is a kind of landmark in the US. read more

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Right when you walk in it hits you. Grand Central is one of those places that still feels impressive no matter how many times you've been. The ceiling with the constellations, the massive arched windows, the chandeliers, everything about it feels iconic and surprisingly peaceful considering how many people move through it every day. Even if you're not catching a train, it's worth walking through. The main concourse alone is something to see. There's a food hall downstairs with solid options. Theres even an Apple Store inside of the station. Crazy. It's clean, easy to navigate, and still has that old New York charm. Definitely not just a train station. It's a landmark that still earns the attention it gets. Highly recommend. read more

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Ah man this place feels special and beautiful and it has that old school charm and somehow European too It's huge Wasn't that busy when I went shockingly but it was at night I know they have lots of places to eat from small places to formal sit downs But it still felt like a lot was happening read more

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A transit hub in NYC. The main attractions are the architectural design, high vaulted ceiling and the clock at the main concourse. There are other things like a tennis court, shops and dining options. read more

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Waiting for my train. Grand Central Terminal - NYC Though it was only 7:30 a.m., the station was anything but still. People flowed in and out some chatting excitedly about their weekend plans, while others sat quietly, waiting for their trains. Jazz music played softly at one end, adding a gentle soundtrack to the morning bustle. For the first time, I looked up and saw the stars clear, bright, and stark against the dark sky. In that moment, I truly soaked in the station's atmosphere, feeling its unique rhythm and spirit. Walking into Grand Central feels less like stepping into a train station and more like entering a cathedral built for the city's soul. Sunlight pours through the soaring arched windows, spilling onto marble floors worn smooth by generations of hurried footsteps. Overhead, the vaulted ceiling a midnight-blue zodiac reminds you to look up, even in the middle of Manhattan's perpetual rush. It's impossible not to think about what New York lost with the demolition of the old Penn Station in 1963 a Beaux-Arts masterpiece erased in the name of "progress." Grand Central was almost next. If not for a fierce preservation battle, this very hall could have been gutted and replaced with another soulless glass tower. Instead, it stands today as both a transportation hub and a monument to what the city can be when it chooses beauty over expedience. The Main Concourse hums with a mix of commuters, tourists, and locals pretending they aren't impressed (but still are). Downstairs, the Dining Concourse offers everything from iconic oyster plates to quick bites, eaten with the steady rhythm of trains departing beneath your feet. Grand Central isn't just where you catch a train it's proof that New York can honor its past while still moving full speed ahead. read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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I've studied and travelled in many of our major cities across the world but still New York City amidst its quintessential woes remains to be the best anyone has to see and enjoy. One week in May 2025, a close family friend invited me to live in her Manhattan Apartment on 49th Street, located in the center of New York. While there, I wanted to see the Grand Central Station where many of the movies I've seen as a young man were filmed. The Men in Black in particular showcased this place and I walked in many of the sets where it was highlighted in this movie. The Avengers also showcased the inside lounges and markets which looked exactly as it was shown here. The GCS has a variety of fruits and vegetables, goodies, breads and clothings of various European styles, fashion boutiques and dining options. You can also find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics, gifts, and unique souvenirs. This place also boasts a European-style food market with fresh produce, gourmet ingredients, and prepared foods. So, if you're aching to remind yourself of the many things you wanted to see about the New York life, start with the Grand Central Station and enjoy the cityscapes and landscapes. read more

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Grand Central Terminal (GCT) is the grandest of all commuter rail terminals in the US. There are times when traveling through the terminal (and not in a rush) that I remember to stop and take in the magnificence of its Beaux-Arts design, works of art and friezes. The renovated celestial ceiling art is always breathtaking. GCT also hosts some performance and installation art and spontaneous flash mobs. It is also a popular site for marriage proposals and photo shoots. Many parts of the terminal are adorned with sculpted acorns and oak leaves. Cornelius Vanderbilt chose the acorn as the symbol of the Vanderbilt family, adopting the family motto: "Great oaks from little acorns grow." There is so much history to distill and learn from the archways and walls of this terminal. Stepping into the terminal is to me like time traveling to the past and all while moving forward. Can't wait to see how GCT evolves for present and future travelers. read more

Grand Central Terminal is an architectural beauty and one of the world's busiest train stations. It is truly iconic, and much deservingly preserved as a historical landmark. I like the Grand Central Terminal for practical travel reasons. From JFK, I took the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, and connected to Grand Central Terminal. From here I was able to take the Metro-North Railroad to Rye for a wedding, and then back. It was a focal point to getting around the city conveniently connected to trains and the subway system so I even booked my hotel nearby. They also have many restaurants and vendors for the travelers to browse and kill time before their next trip. Check out the market and the dining concourse if you have time to browse. The only downside is that it can be better maintained. And there are suspicious characters lurking around so be vigilant and stay safe. read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Grand Central is a must! I was so amazed by its beauty, its structure, the commuting culture, the little shops and restaurants. It's nothing like I have ever experienced. The terminal was full of tourist, but everyone was kind enough to wait their turn to take a picture with this as their backdrop read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

I love this station almost as much as Penn Station. The staff throughout are so friendly and helpful. If you don't know where or how to purchase tickets, catch your train, or know what train to take where you want to go, there are people all around willing to help you. Actually get out the booth and show you how to purchase ticket. We ventured from Mid-town to 911 memorial with ease thanks to the staff. The terminal is so beautiful, filled with shops and food markets. Love this station!! read more

This place is beautiful. I've stopped by a few times to take some pictures and people watch. It feels pretty safe, as police and security are walking around. Make sure to look up! read more

Grand Central Terminal - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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At first I had trouble finding it, then I returned and walk downstairs, there it was. Everything's a fun maze to explore, with lots & lots of levels... there are subways, trains, restaurants, people with bicycles, lots down there... & mostly TONS of lovely people. In & out, & all around. read more

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I've been to Grand Central Terminal plenty of times in my 35 years of living. Each time I come, there's people everywhere which is understandable. It's fairly easy to navigate yourself to your desired train link. I've taken the 4, 5 and Shuttle trains here before. The Food Emporium is a must to check out whenever you have a moment. I've had the Chirping Chicken food before but I have yet to try out the other vendors. I'm not in the area as often as I used to but I look forward to stopping by during the upcoming holiday season. read more