Copper rats on the canopy
Summer Streets
Campbell Bar
Great Northern
Oyster Bar
GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL
It’s easy to get lost in the celestial ceiling at Grand Central Terminal. Completed in 1913, Grand Central Terminal was designed by the architects Reed & Stem. An architectural competition design includes innovative pedestrian ramps inside as well as vehicular ramps outside that allowed Park Avenue to pass around at the second floor level. The firm of Warren & Wetmore was asked to design a monumental facade for the building and the two firms worked together as associated architects. This location was chosen because the city had limited soot belching steam engines from 42nd Street and above.
Though Grand Central Terminal only serves commuter rail lines, it’s one of the busiest train terminals in the world with 44 platforms and over 82 million people each year.
We almost lost Grand Central Terminal shortly after Penn Station was torn down in the 1960’s. Fortunately we still have it today in a beautifully restored condition. Though most people are here to catch a train, many come to Grand Central for all sorts of other reasons.
Take some time to look at all the wonderful details throughout the building.
If you see people facing the corners of this space, you’ll know that you have reached the famous Whisper Gallery. The shape of the ceiling carries the sound to the other corners of the space. The herringbone pattern of these Guastavino tiles can also be found at City Hall.
If you like take a seat at the counter in the famous Oyster Bar, pick up something in Grand Central Market or enjoy a meal in the Dining Concourse. One of my favorites though is Great Northern, right off of 42nd Street in Vanderbilt Hall.
If you would like a fun surprise though, look for the Campbell Bar, just up the ramp from the Oyster Bar or accessible from Vanderbilt Avenue. Take the elevator up to the bar that was also known as the Campbell Apartment. It was originally built as the office for John W. Campbell, a board member of the New York Central Railroad. It’s a beautiful space to have a cocktail and you feel like you have discovered a hidden gem in the city.
If your visit is in August, take advantage of Summer Streets. Park Avenue is closed to cars on Saturday mornings for this unique festival, so you can ride your bike or walk around the upper level roadway.
Enjoy your visit to Grand Central Terminal and take some time to soak in all it has to offer.
Here is a link to Grand Central Terminal's website for more information: