Grand Central Terminal and Station

New York's extraordinary railroad station, designed in Beaux-Arts style by Reed & Stem and Warren & Wetmore, was constructed from 1903 to 1913, improving on the earlier Grand Central Depot (a massive glass-and-iron train shed, opened 1871). It is perhaps best approached from Park Avenue south of 42nd Street. Surrounded by skyscrapers, Grand Central ranks as one of America's most beautiful stations. Walk in to admire its stunning brass clock, the exquisite staircases, and the unique celestial ceiling, its light bluish-green background filled with well-known constellations dotted with tiny lights. Restored in recent years, the cavernous main hall is bathed in natural light during the day, and pulsates with activity at night, thanks not least to its three busy restaurants: Michael Jordan's Steakhouse, Metrazur, and the famous Oyster Bar. In fact, few tourists can resist the opportunity to sample the wide variety of oysters and other seafood at this landmark restaurant, abuzz constantly with diners sitting amid its low vaults and arches. Grand Central serves over 60 million passengers per year, and the recent additional of a public market with vendors selling a dizzying array of fresh foods has injected new life into this great station.