Grand Central Terminal

New York's most magnificent public space and one of the city's finest landmarks. 48 pairs of railroad tracks bring in half a million commuters everyday, full of interesting shops and restaurants.

Far more glamorous than the average train station, Grand Central is well worth a visit. It is another fine example of the Beaux-Arts style seen all over New York city and also happens to be the largest train station in the world with 44 platforms and 67 tracks.

Although named Grand Central Terminal since 1913, it is often referred to as Grand Central Station. Technically, however, this is the name of the nearby post office, and of a previous station on the site.

Externally impressive, although dwarfed by the neighbouring buildings, Grand Central appears as a stone gateway from another time. Several architects were involved in its creation over the years, but the latest rendition was designed by two groups of architects Reed and Stem and Warren and Wetmore, the latter pair were said to have drawn inspiration from Roman architecture. Construction lasted 10 years, finally opening in 1913.

Inside, the main concourse is a cavernous space (275 feet long, 120 feet wide and 125 feet high) swathed in cream marble. The tall windows are 60 feet high, bringing in natural light to the area. They also serve as walkways to offices. It is an arresting site to see a suited commuter walking across the glass as if through the air.

The vaulted ceiling, also referred to as The Sky Ceiling, is an astronomical mural against a muted-green sky. Gold-leaf constellations depict the Zodiac (albeit backwards to reflect Medieval cartography) and small sparkling lights twinkle.

Gold-plated, acorn-shaped chandeliers adorn both sides of the main concourse, as well as several other hallways, giving a sense of opulence. There are also depictions of acorns and oak leaves above the entrances to the platforms, and elsewhere in the building.

The prevalence is significant as it represents the house of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, the New York-born entrepreneur who bought control of the key railroads and funded the construction of Grand Central. Regular commercial events grace the eponymously titled Vanderbilt Hall and are worth a peek for free samples.

There is a vast dining concourse below to suit every taste from the expensive and lauded Oyster Bar and Restaurant to cheap, but very tasty, falafel pittas. Upstairs the Grand Central Market is as impressive as its main concourse, full to bursting with artisan cheeses, meats, fish, cakes and breads. There is also a raft of shops (68 according to the official website) from an Apple Store to Financier Patisserie chocolates.

It is possible to take audio tours of the terminal, or follow your own walking tour - just remember to look up!