Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is one of New York’s hidden wonders. Set in the heart of Manhattan, this train station is home to an incredible 44 underground platforms, providing access to 67 separate tracks. The tracks themselves are split into two underground levels, with 41 tracks on the upper level and another 26 on the lower level. Trains departing from here travel along tunnels that run below Park Avenue to Harlem before surfacing.

Earlier this month I caught a train from Grand Central enroute to Greenwich in Connecticut for a day of business meetings. This was the first time I’d ever caught a train from this iconic building. I was astonished to discover just how many platforms and trains were in service, all situated under my feet, right in the heart of one of the world’s largest cities. Every day 660 commuter trains terminate here, disgorging more than 125,000 people into Manhattan.


The current terminal building and underground platforms were built between 1903 and 1913. The main concourse is one of New York’s iconic locations. The space fills almost an entire city block, lit by rows of towering arched windows, with a ceiling that soars an impressive 150 feet overhead. Access to the main floor is via a grand, sweeping marble staircase.

In the centre of the concourse sits a small information booth, crowned by a four-face brass clock. This clock is considered one of New York’s classic meeting places. When I stand here it’s easy to imagine Audrey Hepburn meeting a trench coat wearing Cary Grant. Grand Central has been described as a cathedral for trains. I can see why.