New York Grand Central Terminal Secret Tour

A historic hub of life in New York, Grand Central Terminal holds countless untold stories within its halls. From secret staircases to a onetime movie theater, there’s a lot more than meets the eye—and you’re about to discover it all firsthand. On this revealing experience, you’ll see a side of the world’s most famous train terminal that even the most frequent commuters never encounter. Get to know the colorful historic figures who brought Grand Central to life, and gain a new appreciation for its near-magical scale.

Meeting Point

Grand Central Terminal

New York, NY 10017, USA

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. Tour meets at Tour Information Booth in the Main Concourse of Grand Central Terminal. If you are standing at the clock, the Tour Information Booth is located to right of the Harlem & Hudson Line Departures

What's included:

• Local English-speaking guide
• Expertly guided walking tour

Not included:

• Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
• Gratuities

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Grand Central Terminal

89 E 42nd Street, , New York City, 10017-5503, New York

Your adventure begins in Grand Central Terminal’s modern-day heart: the lively main concourse. Marvel at the famous clock perched atop the information booth—and learn the eye-watering amount it’s rumored to be worth—as your guide regales you with the story of Cornelius Vanderbilt, the mastermind behind Grand Central Depot (as it was originally called). From there, head into Vanderbilt Hall, itself a living testament to Grand Central’s rags-to-riches transformation in the 1980s.

15 minutes

42nd Street

New York City, New York

Next, pop outside for a moment to gaze upon the largest Tiffany clock in the world from the busy Pershing Square plaza.

10 minutes

Campbell Apartment

15 Vanderbilt Ave, Between 42nd Street and 43rdf Street, New York City, 10017-3815, New York

Heading back inside, it's time to travel back in time to the Roaring 20s. Step into a speakeasy-style bar that, a century ago, served as the private office of one of New York’s most prominent railroad tycoons.

10 minutes

Grand Central Terminal

89 E 42nd Street, , New York City, 10017-5503, New York

After a foray into the Whispering Gallery, where you’ll learn just how whispered secrets travel across the busy interchange to be perfectly heard on the other side, you’ll get a peek at one of the largest lost-and-found departments anywhere in the world. Then, peruse the handcrafted designs and jewelry on sale from local artisans in the Graybar Passage before stepping into a fascinating former movie theater, where travel-weary youngsters could enjoy some entertainment back in Grand Central’s heyday.

35 minutes

Grand Central Market

89 E 42nd St, Grand Central Terminal, New York City, 10017-5503, New York

Last but not least, you’ll weave through the colorful Grand Central Market before making your way back to the main concourse, having gotten a true insider’s look at the most famous train terminal in the world.

15 minutes