Grand Central Tasty History Tour Hidden Gems Food and Drinks

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Go beyond the famous clock and discover Grand Central’s hidden stories, secret spaces, remarkable architecture, and fascinating history on a guided walking tour that combines storytelling with memorable food and drink stops.

What's Included

Historical storytelling
Guided walking tour
Magnolia Bakery stop
Drinks
Grand Central Terminal exploration
Additional food and beverages
Gratuities for the tour guide
Personal Expenses

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Pershing Square, under the large green sign.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Grand Central Terminal

    Explore the iconic Main Concourse and discover the famous ceiling mural, the opal clock, the hidden stairwell, and fascinating stories from Grand Central's history, including the Cold War-era Red Rocket stunt.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Explore Grand Central Market, a favorite shopping and food destination for everyday commuters. Browse the local businesses and discover the striking Shirshasana art piece, a 25-foot olive tree adorned with thousands of crystals.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Step outside Grand Central to admire the Chrysler Building's distinctive Art Deco architecture and learn how its design contrasts with Grand Central's Beaux-Arts style. Discover the fascinating rat sculptures connected to Cornelius Vanderbilt's history as a ship merchant.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Discover the historic Graybar Passage and look up at Edward Trumbull's 1928 mural depicting the evolution of transportation, from horse-and-buggy travel to early aviation. See the Eastern Standard Time clock and hear the story behind it.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Visit the historic Oyster Bar, which opened with Grand Central Terminal in 1913, and experience the famous Whispering Gallery. Stand at opposite corners of the Guastavino-tiled arch and whisper to hear your voice carried clearly across the vault.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Take a break at The Saloon, a wood-paneled nautical-style bar tucked behind the Oyster Bar. Relax, use the restrooms, and enjoy the tour's first drink stop.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Stop at Magnolia Bakery inside Grand Central's food court and enjoy a sweet treat from the famous New York bakery, known for its original banana pudding and red velvet cupcakes. If Magnolia is closed, the tour may use Joey Bats as an alternative.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    Visit the hidden Vanderbilt Tennis Courts and discover this unusual part of Grand Central's history. See the vintage elevators and replica wingback seats inspired by the 20th Century Limited trains, and learn about the site's connection to CBS broadcasting.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9

    End the tour at the historic Campbell Bar, once the private 1920s office and apartment of financier John Campbell. Discover its history, original Florentine plaster ceiling, Persian carpet, piano, and pipe organ while hearing stories about its connection to Grand Central.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by City Tours New York
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Tags

Full-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Dessert Tours
Food & Drink
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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