Navigating Grand Central Terminal Like a Local

Walking through New York City's Grand Central Terminal during rush hour can feel overwhelming. The activity inside the station reminds me of a frenetic jazz composition; people of varying shapes, ages, and ethnicity whiz around you at different paces. The speed walkers have a train to catch and those sleeping at tables have nowhere else to go. A strange mix of train exhaust, fresh baked goods and urine wafts through the air. I wouldn't expect any different from one of the busiest train stations in America.

When compared to other points of entry and egress, like the Port Authority Bus Terminal, JFK airport, or Penn Station, Grand Central exudes the most charm and class. I can't think of a grander way to enter the city.

I love wandering around the station with my camera and never miss a chance to gaze up at the iconic aquamarine ceiling of the Main Concourse. There are many beautiful details around the terminal that I'm sure go unnoticed by the herds of daily commuters.

Here are some of my top tips for navigating Grand Central Terminal like a local: 

• The #1 mistake I see travelers make in Grand Central Terminal is joining the line outside of the Metro-North ticket machine room by the Hudson News and the Main Concourse to purchase a ticket. There are several other locations in Grand Central Terminal to purchase your ticket, including the MTA eTix mobile app. If you’re not pressed for time, there's a large room of machines to the right of the staircase to The Campbell Apartments in the Main Concourse. Additionally, the lower level Dining Concourse has a few ticket machines against the pillars in the center of the room. You can also buy your ticket from the agents in the Main Concourse.

• The Station Master's Office near Track 36 is a secret oasis of calm when the terminal is crowded. This waiting area tends to be more tidy and features oak benches from the old waiting room (Vanderbilt Hall). The women’s restroom in this area is usually less crowded, too. Free WiFi is available.

• If there are two passengers heading one-way to the same Metro-North stop, you can save time by purchasing a digital or physical round-trip ticket for one. It will cost the same as two one-way tickets and the ticket collector on the train won't mind when you say you're traveling together.

• Traveling in from Connecticut? It’s easier than ever to connect to the JFK AirTrain or the Hamptons with the advent of the Long Island Railroad station Grand Central Madison.

• The Grand Central Oyster Bar (above) is a classic venue to have a drink or a bite to eat before you depart New York City. The main restaurant dining area is a nice spot for a date, but if it's the classic Mad Men feel you seek, check out the bar in the room to the right. A smile goes a long way with these bartenders and waiters, whose attention is notoriously hard to get during rush hour. 

• For something more high-end, you’ll want to have a cocktail at The Campbell Bar. It’s tucked away up the marble staircase toward Vanderbilt Avenue, through the exit doors and to the left. While there’s no official dress code, I recommend smart casual if you want to fit in.

• True Grand Central know about booking the tennis court. Yes, you read that right! You can reserve hourly court time. Once you’re in The Campbell Bar lobby, you’ll take the elevator up to the 4th floor where the courts are located.

• If you're departing Grand Central in the morning, cafes like Zarros and Starbucks can be really busy. Try the Dining Concourse for less-crowded breakfast options like Magnolia Bakery and Shake Shack. The banana muffin and iced coffee from Magnolia are delicious and you usually don't have to wait in a line to buy them.

• This is a great place to take photographs, but don't forget to keep your camera safe and watch your belongings. I prefer to keep my camera tucked in my bag rather than wearing it around my neck.

If you'd like to learn more about the history of Grand Central Terminal during your next visit to NYC, I recommend downloading an audio guided tour or booking the official Grand Central Terminal guided tour. The Terminal map might also help you find what you’re looking for.

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