Secrets of Grand Central Terminal and/or Penn Station - Private
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the secrets of iconic, world-famous Grand Central Terminal!
Or, take a step further into a comparative adventure including Penn Station, which was once arguably grander than today's Grand Central and is still the busiest train station in the Americas.
Highlights:
• Compare your exact locations with what was originally located there in the famously demolished 1910 Penn Station.
• Uncover remnants lost to time from the original Penn Station, and explore the new Moynihan Train Hall.
• Compare Penn Station to Grand Central, where we will arrive after exploring NYC Subway secrets in original 1904 stations.
• Discover Grand Central's secret bar, glass walkways, hidden tennis court, whispering walls, and much more!
Your licensed guide is from NYC and is a certified urban planner and Guides Association of NYC member.
Notes:
• Full Subway fare provided!
• Individual ear pieces provided.
• Tour only visits public areas.
• Experience involves walking up and down steps.
Available options
Penn Station Secrets
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Penn Station : Uncover remnants of the original Penn Station and learn about the future of the busiest train station in the Americas!
Penn Station and Grand Central
Duration: 3 hours<br/>Penn Station and Grand Central: Comparative, private walking tour of NYC's two busiest train stations, with a NYC Subway connection between the two sites!
Grand Central Secrets
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Grand Central Terminal: Discover the many secrets of world-famous Grand Central Terminal on a private walking tour with a professional urban planner!<br/>Starting point:<br/>Grand Central Terminal, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA
What's included
Subway fare included on your private tour!
Ear pieces are provided, ensuring everyone hears perfectly.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Uncover artifacts of the original Penn Station hiding in plain sight and experience the new Moynihan Train Hall!
2
Stop 2
We will arrive at Grand Central Terminal via the NYC Subway to discover even more secrets!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
20 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers with difficulty walking up and down steps
Meeting point
Grand Central Terminal ONLY tours:
Please meet at the four-sided Information Booth clock in the center of the Main Concourse. We can meet on the northern side, which is the side closest to the escalators to the MetLife Building.
Important notes
For Penn Station & combined tours, please meet at the Pret A Manger coffee shop located at 104 W 32nd Street.
For Grand Central Terminal ONLY tours, please meet at the Information Booth clock in the Main Concourse (the center of Grand Central).
Please feel free to reach out with any questions!
About New York City
New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.
Top Attractions
Statue of Liberty
A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.
Historical
3-4 hours
$18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)
Central Park
A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (some attractions have fees)
Times Square
The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)
Empire State Building
An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Architecture
1-2 hours
$44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)
Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.
Museum
3-5 hours
$25 (suggested admission)
Brooklyn Bridge
An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
New York-style Pizza
Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Bagel with Lox
A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.
Breakfast
Contains dairy and fish.
Cheesecake
Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.
Dessert
Contains dairy.
Pastrami on Rye
Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.
Lunch
Contains meat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Central Park
Kayaking in the Hudson River
Rock climbing in the Bronx
Spas and wellness centers
Yoga and meditation classes
Strolling through botanical gardens
Museum visits
Broadway shows
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
- LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown
By train
Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal
By bus
Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Manhattan
Brooklyn
Queens
Bronx
Staten Island
Day trips
Niagara Falls
650 km (400 miles) • Overnight
A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Washington D.C.
370 km (230 miles) • Full day
The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.
Philadelphia
150 km (93 miles) • Full day
A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.
Festivals
New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November
NYC Pride • Late June
Pro tips
- Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
- Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
- Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
