Secrets of Grand Central Tour in New York City
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves standing and moderate walking on flat surfaces.
Overview
Uncover hidden gems inside Grand Central Terminal with this exclusive walking tour. Explore secret bars, forgotten tennis courts, and architectural surprises in the heart of NYC.
Secrets of Grand Central Tour
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About This Adventure
Uncover the hidden secrets of Grand Central Terminal on this captivating walking tour. Explore its rich history, from elegant cocktail bars to a concealed tennis court and remnants of a lost movie theater. Led by award-winning guides, this experience reveals the architectural quirks and stories that make this iconic landmark extraordinary.
Discover what's hidden in Grand Central Terminal
Tour Highlights
- Discover the secrets of one of NYC’s most iconic buildings
- Learn about the design flaw as large as Grand Central’s main concourse
- Find one of NYC’s most elegant cocktail bars formally an office, a speakeasy and a jail
- Peek into the entrance of the glass walkways
- Locate Grand Central’s hidden tennis court
- Decipher the hidden symbols of the family that built Grand Central
- See what’s left of Grand Central’s lost movie theater
About
Discover the many secrets of this New York City icon! Close to a million people pass through Grand Central Terminal every day, yet very few know the many stories and secrets which you will learn on this tour. On this unique walking tour you will discover the origins and history of the Beaux Arts train station, from its glittering glory days to disrepair and modern quests to save it. Our top rated tour guides will make you experience what most miss: its hidden features, design quirks, and much more. Whether you pass through it every day on your morning commute or stroll through the Grand Central for the first time, you are sure to leave having learned, seen, and experienced something new and extraordinary. This tour of Grand Central Terminal is great for history or architecture buffs alike.
Meeting Location: The group meets in front of track 29, inside Grand Central’s main concourse. 89 East 42nd St, New York, NY 10017. Your guide will hold an “Untapped New York” sign.
**Cancellation Policy:**100% refund up to 72 hours prior to the start of your tour.
When canceled less than 72 hours before the start of your tour, we will do our best to reschedule you or issue you a credit to use on any of our upcoming tours. This credit won’t expire until you use it!
FAQ
How long is the tour?
This tour is 90 minutes long.
Where does it end?
It ends where it starts, inside Grand Central’s main concourse.
How strenuous is this tour?
This tour is easy and most people can participate.
Is this tour ADA accessible?
Yes, it is! You can email us at tours@untappedcities.com in order for us to best prepare your visit.
Is this tour mostly indoors or outdoors?
This tour is mostly indoors.
What is Untapped New York’s relationship with the MTA?
We are a minority owned and independent walking tour company based in Brooklyn, and are not endorsed, licensed, or otherwise officially sanctioned by the MTA.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking through various parts of the terminal, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the start time to check in and avoid missing the group.
Bring a camera
Photography is allowed in most areas; bring a camera to capture hidden architectural details.
Not stroller or wheelchair friendly
Some hidden areas may have stairs or narrow passages, limiting full access for strollers or wheelchairs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Time-honored city pigeons seen near the terminal entrances
- Urban rats, though rarely visible, inhabit the lower maintenance areas
History
Grand Central Terminal opened in 1913 and was a key hub for rail travel, featuring extravagant Beaux-Arts architecture and innovative engineering of the era.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to preserve the terminal’s historic structure while improving energy efficiency and reducing its carbon footprint.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes ensure comfort during the walking tour through the terminal’s halls.
Light jacket or layered clothing
Spring weather can be changeable, so layers help adjust to indoor and outdoor temps.
spring specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the architectural details and hidden secrets throughout the tour.
Umbrella or raincoat
Protect yourself from spring showers, especially when walking to and from meeting points.
spring specific