Grand Central: The Open Sesame Bagel Tour

The Open Sesame Bagel Tour at Grand Central Terminal is an immersive exploration of New York City’s iconic landmark. Visitors start their journey with a delightful NYC-style bagel breakfast before embarking on a guided tour through the terminal’s stunning architecture. From the vaulted ceiling adorned with constellations to the famous Tiffany clock, this tour provides historical insights while ensuring accessibility for all. With the tour running three times a week, it’s a memorable experience that leaves you wondering what other hidden gems the terminal holds.

Good To Know

1. The "Open Sesame Bagel Tour" at Grand Central Terminal offers visitors a guided experience exploring the terminal’s architectural highlights, including the iconic Tiffany clock and the hidden Campbell Apartment.

2. The tour starts with an NYC-style bagel breakfast and is led by a local guide, providing insights into the terminal’s historical significance and its role in New York’s golden age of rail travel.

3. The tour lasts from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, running three times a week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), and concludes at the starting point for further exploration.

4. The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, and allows service animals, catering to visitors of varying physical abilities.

5. The tour has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 23 reviews, suggesting a positive visitor experience with opportunities for improvement noted.

Exploring the Architectural Marvels of Grand Central Terminal

As visitors step into the grand concourse of Grand Central Terminal, they’re immediately captivated by the architectural marvels that surround them.

The sprawling terminal boasts a stunning vaulted ceiling adorned with an astronomical mural, depicting the constellations in breathtaking detail. Intricate stone carvings and sculptures line the walls, showcasing the terminal’s neoclassical design.

Travelers gaze in awe at the iconic four-faced Tiffany clock, a centerpiece of the space. The hidden Campbell Apartment, a former private salon, offers a glimpse into the terminal’s gilded age.

This remarkable architecture provides the perfect backdrop for the "Open Sesame Bagel Tour" of Grand Central.

Tiffany Clock and the Hidden Campbell Apartment

The iconic four-faced Tiffany clock stands as the centerpiece of Grand Central Terminal‘s grand concourse, captivating visitors with its intricate design and historical significance.

Commissioned in 1910, the clock features bronze faces and is illuminated by natural light from the terminal’s immense windows.

Beyond the clock, the tour explores the hidden Campbell Apartment, a former private lounge that now serves as a cocktail bar.

Adorned with carved oak panels, stone fireplace, and leaded glass windows, the Campbell Apartment offers a glimpse into the terminal’s glamorous past as a hub for New York’s high society.

NYC’s Golden Age of Rail: Uncovering the Stories

Though the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal’s architecture and design captivates visitors, the real stories lie in its role as the epicenter of New York’s golden age of rail travel.

The tour guide regales guests with tales of the terminal’s vibrant history, when it served as a bustling hub for intercity travel.

Visitors learn about the influential figures and landmark events that shaped the city’s transportation landscape during this prosperous era.

From the rise of the railroad barons to the terminal’s ingenious engineering, the guide brings the past to life, enriching the experience with intriguing anecdotes.

The Open Sesame Bagel Experience

Kicking off the tour, visitors are treated to a delightful NYC-style bagel breakfast.

As they gather at the Grand Central Terminal‘s iconic Information Booth, the guide welcomes the group and provides an overview of the day’s journey.

With bagels in hand, the tour explores the captivating architecture and hidden gems of the terminal, from the Tiffany clock to the Campbell Apartment.

Along the way, the guide regales the group with stories about the terminal’s golden age, bringing the historic space to life.

This engaging start sets the tone for an immersive exploration of Grand Central’s rich history and charm.

Meeting Point and Tour Schedule

Visitors can find the meeting point for the "Open Sesame Bagel Tour" at the Information Booth located in the Main Concourse of Grand Central Terminal.

The tour runs three times a week – on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays – with all sessions starting at 10:30 AM and ending at 12:30 PM. This allows participants to explore the iconic terminal’s art, architecture, and history while enjoying a tasty NYC-style bagel breakfast.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, so guests can further discover the terminal on their own after the experience.

Inclusions and Accessibility

The "Open Sesame Bagel Tour" includes a continental breakfast, a knowledgeable local guide, and gratuities.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves some walking. This ensures everyone can fully participate and enjoy the historical insights and architectural wonders of Grand Central Terminal.

Cancellation and Booking Policies

Travelers can cancel their reservation for the "Open Sesame Bagel Tour" up to 24 hours before the experience starts at no additional cost.

This flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind in case of unexpected changes in plans.

For those who need more time to decide, the tour also offers a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option.

This allows participants to secure their spot without immediately paying the full price.

With these convenient booking and cancellation policies, guests can explore the art, architecture, and history of Grand Central Terminal with added flexibility and confidence.

Feedback and Ratings

According to reviews, the "Open Sesame Bagel Tour" at Grand Central Terminal has earned an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 23 customer evaluations.

Guests praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, who provide enjoyable historical insights. Reviewers appreciate the good overview of the iconic terminal.

Some suggestions for improvement include adding more interactive elements, addressing timing and food availability issues, and considering audio equipment for better communication in noisy environments.

The Sum Up

The Open Sesame Bagel Tour at Grand Central Terminal offers visitors a chance to experience the terminal’s architectural marvels and captivating history, all while enjoying a classic New York-style bagel. This accessible and informative tour runs three times a week, providing a memorable and immersive exploration of this iconic landmark. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, the Open Sesame Bagel Tour is a must-do experience.