Did you know that the Grand Central Terminal (GCT) opened to the public in 1913 and now greets over 750,000 visitors each day?
Grand central is rich in history and a national historic landmark in New York City. When you think of NYC, sightseeing at Grand Central Park probably pops in your mind, but it isn’t the only thing you can do.
It turns out you can have a tour through history right in Grand Central Terminal itself. So if you’re visiting NYC, plan; you don’t miss out. Keep reading this guide to learn about 10 amazing things you can see and do at the Grand Central Terminal!
1. Stay The Night
With so much to see and do at Grand Station Terminal, why not stay a night, so you have more time to take it all in?
And what better place to rest from your travels than at Westgate New York Grand Central? You can kick up your feet at the newly renovated and luxurious rooms at this elegant hotel.
2. Gaze at the Golden Clock
Did you know that Grand Central has the most famous clock in all of New York City? The Grand Central clock was designed by Henry Edward Bedford of the Self Winding Clock company. Bedford built the clock with help from the Seth Thomas Clock Company, completing it in 1913.
The clock is made of brass and opal and worth well over $10 million. The main concourse is home to the “golden clock,” given its nickname after a restoration in 1954 in a New York Times story.
3. Hear the Whispers
One of the most popular spots to check out in Grand Central is The Whispering Gallery. Here, you can let the magic of acoustics transform you.
You might notice people standing at opposite corners of the room talking in low whispers to the wall and are amazed that they can hear each other as if they were standing right there.
The cool effect in this gallery is due to the arch in the ceiling and the tiles on the surface.
4. Watch the Trains
Grand Central sees hundreds of thousands of people each day, and even more astounding is the number of trains heading in and out of the station each day.
Grand Central has 67 tracks with trains heading in and out of New York City, The Bronx, and beyond. You can also walk the entire length of the platform while you watch the trains come and go.
5. Kiss in the Kissing Room
Grand Central is home to the Biltmore Room, also known as “The Kissing Room.” In the late 20th century, train service was much more limited, and trains arrived from the west coast on the tracks next to the Biltmore Room.
Whether they were movie stars, politicians, or solo travelers, passengers could be seen exiting the train and reuniting with their loved ones. Due to the hugging and kissing, the Biltmore Room became forever known as “The Kissing Room.”
6. Have a History Lesson
In the main concourse of Grand Central, there lies a black circle on the ceiling. This black circle is from a hole intentionally made at the height of the Cold War in 1957. During that time, fear was high among many, and a large missile was placed inside the terminal to reduce fears in the minds of many.
Because the missile was so big, a large hole was created to hang the missile above the floor. Today it leaves a testament to the difficult times people have endured.
7. Do Some Stargazing
The main concourse ceiling in Grand Central is also great for stargazing as well. Whether you know your astrology well or not, you’re sure to enjoy the mural of 12 constellations and over 2,500 stars painted on the ceiling. Nowadays, a good portion of these stars is illuminated by LEDs for one amazing effect.
Another fun fact is the zodiac is painted backward. Still, Grand Central’s founder Cornelius Vanderbilt said it was designed that way on purpose, as it is was intended to be viewed from a divine perspective above.
8. Visit the Grand Central Market
If you’ve never been to Grand Central Terminal, then you’re in for a real shopping treat. Believe it or not, Grand Central is a trendy place to shop; with more than 65 stores selling various things, you’ll be sure to find something you like.
The toys, colorful gifts, fresh food, baked goods, and produce from local vendors bring over 10,000 visitors to this unique market every day.
9. Dining in at Grand Central
Grand Central has a huge range of amazing dining options, from full-scale restaurants to delicious sweet treats. If you feel like eating kid-friendly, check out the famous Shake Shack or head over to the Magnolia Bakery.
Grand Central even has an Oyster Bar to soothe your seafood cravings, and there are over 20 casual restaurants where you can get your meal on the go.
10. The Tiffany Clock
Don’t forget that when you step outside Grand Central to 42nd Street, you’ll see another one of the most famous clocks in New York City. The clock features Greek Gods and represents virtues of transportation such as speed and strength.
The Tiffany clock is 14 feet in diameter, 48 feet high, took over seven years to complete, and is the world’s largest structural representation of Tiffany glass.
Grand Central Terminal
Now it’s time to starting planning your visit to Grand Central Terminal! You’re sure to get lost in all that there is to experience.
If you enjoyed this guide, then check us out for more cool travel tips!