Midtown East

About Midtown East

Grand Central Terminal was built in 1913 and remains a public transportation hub. Covering the railroad tracks helped reshape Park Avenue, which later changed from a largely residential address into a commercial corridor.

The Seagram Building, built in 1956-58, set a bronze-and-glass office tower behind a broad plaza. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed it with Philip Johnson. The building and plaza are designated together as a city landmark.

Places to explore

• Grand Central Terminal

  89 East 42nd Street at Park Avenue

  In the Main Concourse, look for the celestial ceiling and the clock above the information booth. The Whispering Gallery offers another architectural detail. The station is in daily use, so keep circulation routes clear.

  LandmarkGrand Central Terminal

• Seagram Building and Plaza

  375 Park Avenue, between East 52nd and East 53rd streets

  The 1956-58 tower stands back from Park Avenue behind its plaza. Compare the bronze-and-glass exterior and open forecourt from the public street; office access is separate.

  LandmarkSeagram Building and Plaza

• Helmsley Building

  230 Park Avenue at East 45th Street

  The former New York Central headquarters stands over the Park Avenue approach north of the terminal. Its position connects the office building to the railroad-centered development around Grand Central. View the exterior from the sidewalk.

  LandmarkHelmsley Building, Former New York Central Headquarters

• Graybar Building

  420 Lexington Avenue at East 43rd Street

  This building stands alongside the terminal complex. Its street facade is an architectural stop on the edge of the map; check posted access arrangements for any interior passage.

Planning a visit

Grand Central lists the 4, 5, 6, 7 and S subway lines, as well as Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road service. Check MTA notices before travel, and allow time for the walk north along Park Avenue.

The terminal is a working transportation space. For the office towers, plan to see the exterior and follow posted access requirements rather than assuming the interiors are open for touring.

Photos