MTA Metro-North Railroad and City Experiences have announced global tours and experiences provider, Walks, as the new operator of the “Official Grand Central Terminal Tour” in New York City. The terminal tours return for the first time following the pandemic pause. Guests can embark on an official tour of the historic landmark, gaining a unique perspective of one of the most recognizable train terminals in the world.
The 90-minute tour takes visitors on an exclusive journey discovering the many known and unknown treasures of the midtown Manhattan gem, giving them a sense of how the Grand Central Terminal revolutionized travel for visitors and commuters alike. Guests are paired with an expert guide who provides a rich history of the landmark, celebrating the influential people who have shaped the terminal into a world-renowned travel hub.
Guests will have the opportunity to see all the major sites that makeup Grand Central Terminal, including the Grand Central Market, Transit Museum, Grand Central Clock, Vanderbilt Hall, the Whispering Gallery and the Main Concourse.
Hailed as a temple to the everyday commuter, the cathedral-like building was constructed in 1913 as part of the "City Beautiful" movement, celebrating an increasingly diverse and vibrant Manhattan. Today, the beaux-arts style building remains one of the country’s greatest architectural achievements, ranking no. 13 on the American Institute of Architecture’s list of “America’s Favorite Architecture.”
Tour guides take a look at the daily routine of one of the world’s largest and busiest travel hubs and tell the stories of historical characters such as Cornelius Vanderbilt or Paul “Tick Tock” Kugler, who made Grand Central what it is today. After touring, guests can also take advantage of Grand Central’s shops and restaurants, and full calendar of events all under one roof.
Walks operates sightseeing tours, food tours and day trips in eight countries. Specializing in small-group special access tours, Walks began as Walks of Italy in 2009. In early 2021, Walks joined City Experiences’ portfolio of land-based experience companies.
City Experiences includes more than 25 brands, offering locals and tourists alike a range of global experiences.
For more information, visit www.cityexperiences.com or www.takewalks.com.
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