Exploring Grand Central Terminal and the Subterranean LIRR Station

Over the past century, Grand Central Terminal has captivated people from around the world with its architectural beauty, unique brick and mortar eateries, and endless transit possibilities. It’s also full of secrets — from being the target of a failed Nazi sabotage mission during WWII to containing hidden areas that keep it and its train traffic running each day. It's time to explore one of the most perfect train terminals in the world like never before.

Join New York Adventure Club as we venture through Grand Central Terminal — one of the most beautiful and famous train terminals on Planet Earth — along with the new Grand Central Madison LIRR station located 150 feet underground.

Led by NYC Tour Guide Gary Dennis, our unique ground-level and subterranean experience through this urban wonder of the world will include:

• The history of New York Central, the company that built Grand Central Terminal as well as the two preceding incarnations of the terminal built at the same location (third time's a charm!)
• The incredible story of how Grand Central Terminal escaped the wrecking ball, and what the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and the United States Supreme Court had to do with it
• Mysteries of the terminal revealed including why there's a hole in the ceiling, how artists messed-up one of its most defining artworks, and how to find its hidden cocktail lounge
• A trip 15 stories down to the 700,000 square foot Grand Central Madison to visit incredible new works of art — opened in 2023, this LIRR station was the final piece of East Side Access, a decades-long infrastructure project that finally brought Long Island Rail Road trains to Grand Central Terminal
• Rare photos from secret areas throughout the terminal, including the Tiffany Clock room, catwalks, and more

See you there!

*Please wear comfortable shoes as we’ll be on our feet for most of the tour

**This tour does not access any restricted areas

About Gary Dennis

"I am a native New Yorker, NY subway aficionado, and product of an insanely competitive family of "know it alls". My parents, younger brothers, and I all love New York City history, and to get some parental attention I had to be historically correct and entertaining at the same time.

"I love this city and all its peculiarities, and I love sharing it with newcomers, returning visitors or native New Yorkers— I'll tell you these and other fascinating things you never knew about this amazing place I call home because 'there are 8 million stories in the naked city' and I will share with you as many as possible."

Testimonials

"Engaging guide, fun, informative. Looking forward to more!" -Brad

"Interesting and informative" -Abigail

"I liked the background and history of GCT" -Ken

"The guide was great, info great too!" -Ann

"Mr. Dennis was knowledgeable, but did not provide too much information. When questioned about the CBS Television studios in GCT, he knew where it was, and what's there now. The photos on his tablet, ov areas we did not get into, were interesting and illuminating. I'd like to do another tour with him" -John

"The guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic" -Frank

"It was great! Gary was so enthusiastic and knowledgable!!" -Karyn

"Interesting, good history lesson. Gary was engaging, thorough and top notch person." -Michele

"Gary was enthusiastic, interesting, and extremely informative. His passion for NYC is evident, and made this a thoroughly enjoyable tour. I’ve lived in NYC for 25 years and have wanted to do a GCT tour for a long time. This was the perfect tour! 10/10 recommend" -Amy

"A lot of precise info and interesting stories! The guide knew ALOT!!!!" -Grace

"Very interesting and knowledgeable guide. Excellent program. Guide shared many interesting photos and stories about Grand Central." -Paul

"The guide, Gary Dennis, had a lot of info and presented it in a lively way. The size of the group was good. No problem hearing the guide. It was interesting to learn the history and see all the old pictures that our guide had on his tablet. I also liked seeing the new part of the station." -Kirbie"

"Gary was fantastic! He had so much information, great stories and lots of fun details. We will definitely book more tours with him!" -Helen

"Very professional and knowledgeable. Very interesting content" -Katherine

"Learning the amazing story behind GCT and LIRR, and how they fit into the City's history, along with the fascinating information about their construction and operation." -Paul

"Nice, small group. Guide very knowledgeable and easy to hear and understand. Always asked if people had questions before proceeding. Excellent all around. Thanks, Gary!" -Nancy

"Gary's enthusiasm and knowledge" -Catherine

"The guides in depth knowledge and presentation style." -Jeffrey

"Well orgainzed, informative and our guide Gary was knowledgeable, prepared and had a great personality. Best tour I have ever been on" -Dina

"Found out new facts I never knew" -Bruce

"Gary, the guide was friendly, well informed and engaging." -Carlyn

"Gary is the best" -Lawrence

"Excellent guide" -Sharon

"Interesting facts I learned. Being in Grand Central and noting its iconic elements, like the clock and the ceiling.It was worth the trip. Thank you!" -Sandy

"Wonderful instruction & great advice on strategy! We were all able to play a fun game because the guidance was so helpful - I learned so much within a very short time. A really enjoyable event, thank you!" -Michele

"We were a small group so easy to hear him and ask questions. He gave much information that was new to me. Very enjoyable. Gary is a very personable and informative guide." -Diane

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

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Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Host or Publisher New York Adventure Club