Grand Central Tasty History Tour Hidden Gems Food and Drinks

New York City, USA
Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 50 travelers

Overview

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
  • Grand Central Terminal exploration
  • Banana Pudding
  • Gratuities for the tour guide
  • Personal Expenses

What to expect

  1. Grand Central Terminal
    10m
    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.
  2. 10m
    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.
  3. 10m
    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.
  4. 10m
    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.
  5. 10m
    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.
  6. 20m
    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.
  7. 20m
    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.
  8. 10m
    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.
  9. 20m
    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.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Pershing Square, under the large green sign.

End point

Pershing Square, under the large green sign.

Additional information

  • 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
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Travelers with food allergies should notify the tour operator in advance.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
$49.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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