Anyone who has visited New York is likely to have seen Grand Central Terminal. More than just a railway station, it stands as a historic, cultural, and architectural landmark of the city.
World’s Largest Railway Station
According to Guinness
World Records, Grand Central Terminal is the largest railway station in the world by number of platforms. Situated at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, it spreads across 48 acres (19 hectares) and features 44 platforms serving a total of 67 tracks, 41 on the upper level and 26 on the lower level.
The station has two underground levels, allowing trains to arrive and depart smoothly without collisions. This design was revolutionary for its time and remains a key reason for its efficiency even today.
From Steam To Electric Trains
Construction began in 1903, and the terminal officially opened on February 2, 1913, after a decade of work. Built by the New York Central Railroad, it was the largest and most expensive project of its era, costing around 35 million dollars, an amount that would run into billions today.
The shift to electric trains was prompted by a tragic 1902 accident in the Park Avenue Tunnel, where 15 people lost their lives. The incident led to a ban on steam locomotives and marked the beginning of electric rail travel in New York.
Palace-Like Architecture
Grand Central Terminal is designed in the grand Beaux-Arts architectural style, giving it the appearance of a royal palace.
One of its most striking features is the Main Concourse ceiling, which displays over 2,500 stars forming the Zodiac, famously depicted in reverse, a small design error that continues to intrigue visitors.
The Famous Clock And Landmark Statue
At the centre of the Main Concourse stands the iconic information booth topped with a four-faced opal clock, widely regarded as New York’s most popular meeting point.
Outside the terminal, a statue of Cornelius Vanderbilt, the founder of the railroad empire, overlooks the entrance.
A Hub Of Constant Movement
Today, Grand Central primarily serves Metro-North Railroad commuter trains. On average, around 660 trains operate daily, and during morning rush hours, a train arrives every 58 seconds. Approximately 125,000 commuters use the station each day, while the total daily footfall, including tourists, reaches nearly 750,000 people.
Expansion With Grand Central Madison
In 2023, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) services were introduced via Grand Central Madison, significantly increasing the station’s capacity and strengthening its role as a major transport hub.
Grand Central Terminal is also a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It houses the historic Oyster Bar, open since 1913, along with an Apple Store, numerous restaurants, and even tennis courts.
Whispering Gallery And Lost-And-Found Secrets
One of its most curious attractions is the Whispering Gallery, where a whisper spoken in one corner can be clearly heard at the opposite end. Records also reveal that more than 19,000 items are lost at the station each year, yet an impressive 60% are successfully returned to their owners.
