Penn Station Hidden History Tour with Untapped New York in NYC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most visitors, requiring only moderate walking
Overview
Discover the underground remnants of Penn Station on this exclusive private tour with Untapped New York. Dive into the history, architecture, and hidden spaces beneath Madison Square Garden that tell the story of a bygone era. Perfect for history buffs and urban explorers alike, this journey offers a rare glimpse into Manhattan’s layered past—book now for an unforgettable adventure beneath the city streets.
Remnants of Penn Station - Private Tour
2h
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating two-hour journey through the hidden history of Old Penn Station. Discover the stunning Beaux Arts architecture that once graced the site and explore over a dozen remnants still lurking beneath the arena. Enrich your experience with stunning photographs from renowned photographers and passionate railroad historians.
Go Back in Time to the Old Penn Station
Duration
2 hours
About
There are two things most commuters don’t realize about Penn station history: First, there used to be a gorgeous Beaux Arts station that was demolished in the mid-60’s. Second: Parts of that old station can still be found today. They’ve just been buried under the arena that landed on top of them.
Although Amtrak only acknowledges one remnant remaining, tour participants will learn about station history and discover over a dozen remnants of the McKim, Mead & White building hiding in plain sight.
Penn Station tours will continue to be supported by photographic presentations of the station by renown photographers Norman McGrath, Peter Moore, and Aaron Rose, along with the work of railroad aficionados Alexander Hatos, an employee of Pennsylvania Railroad and Ron Ziel, a railroad historian.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes
You'll be walking through uneven underground surfaces, so supportive footwear is essential.
Bring a flashlight
Some areas are dimly lit; a small flashlight will help you see the intricate details clearly.
Dress in layers
Underground spaces can fluctuate in temperature, so layered clothing will keep you comfortable.
Book in advance
Private tours fill up quickly; booking ahead ensures your spot in this unique journey.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- City pigeons
- Ferrel rats in underground tunnels
History
Penn Station, completed in 1910, was once hailed as a marvel of Beaux Arts design and a vital transit hub before its 1960s demolition sparked preservation debates.
Conservation
This tour emphasizes respect for historic structures and raises awareness about preserving architectural and transportation history amidst urban development.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking over uneven underground surfaces comfortably.
Small flashlight
Helps illuminate dim areas to appreciate the details of underground remnants.
Layers of clothing
Adjust for indoor and outdoor temperature fluctuations during the trip.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the striking remnants and visual contrasts of the underground space.