What) Grand Central Terminal - often incorrectly called Grand Central Station, or shortened to simply Grand Central - is a terminal station at 42nd Street and Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Built by and named for the New York Central Railroad in the heyday of American long-distance passenger trains, it is the largest train station in the world by number of platforms.

    The four-faced clock on top of the information booth is perhaps the most recognizable icon of Grand Central. Each of the four clock faces is made from opal.  Both Sotheby's and Christie's have estimated the value to be between $10 million and $20 million. (1)

    The "whispering gallery" is located on the Grand Central Terminal dining concourse near the famous Oyster Bar & Restaurant. Here, the acoustics of the low ceramic arches can cause a whisper to sound like a shout. Sound impossible? To test it out, you and a friend will have to stand in opposite corners of the large arched entryway. Now face the corner and whisper. Your friend should be able to hear your voice as if you were right next to them, not whispering into a far-away corner. According to experts, this happens because the whisperer’s voice follows the curve of the domed ceiling. (2)

    Where)  87 East 42nd Street

    Why) It turns out that there is a commuter train that runs from New Haven, Connecticut (where we were staying) directly to Grand Central Terminal.  This was the entry point for our one day, Martha and Gabs guided, walking tour of New York City.