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Private tour in New York City Benoit G
Grand Central Terminal & SUMMIT!
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3 hours
1
Tour date
Start time
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3 hours
1
Benoit G.
5.0
Guide rating
8
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Tours delivered
12 hrs
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Traveling has always been in my blood. First as a tourist, then for work and now, from the other side as a guide. I have lived, worked and loved in this wonderful metropolis and consequently I now help people discover New York City through the eyes of a Local. Here's my story in a nutshell: After graduating from San Francisco Conservatory of Music, I toured the world as an opera singer and settled in New York City over 30 years ago (I know! Time flies when you're having fun. . . In the "second act" of my life I shared my passion between teaching Voice, and investing. I have worked in the financial markets, saw the internet bubble from the inside and the financial crisis from a little too close. . . if you know what I mean. In the third act, I had children bringing light and life into my household and a strong desire to educate started to grow in me. A life long passion for history found its way through Tour Guiding. Since the year 2005, guiding tourists (and sometimes even locals!) through my city has been less than a job and more of a passion. If you want a unique experience, lively conversations on a wide range of topics and funny anecdotes about New York City, look no further. I can conduct my tours in either English or French, or both if you wish! I am looking forward to being your guide and maybe you'll join me in an aria or two. Benoit Fully Licensed New York City Sightseeing Tour Guide San Francisco Conservatory of Music Graduate Voice Teacher I do not have a car. I can accompany you in your vehicle or I can arrange for a separate car and driver. In my opinion, Walking Tours are the best way to discover and enjoy New York City.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Benoit G.
New York City from the bottom up!
Overview of your New York City tour
After admiring the exterior of this gem of Beaux-Arts style that is Grand Central, we will proceed inside where its true marvel will be revealed. From the ballet of trains to its engineering, and even some curiosities, you will become familiar with all of its aspects as well as discovering how this building became so crucial. Along the way you will hear surprising stories, see the past, the present and the future of the building and all peppered with funny anecdotes. You will also be introduced to its brand new addition where you'll find yourself 14 stories below ground, the deepest public space in the city! From there you’ll go to one of the highest points in the city: SUMMIT. Your tickets will give access to over 90mins of art exhibits and installations, a glass-bottomed ledge, a digital experience and much more! This tour is almost weather-proof for it is 97% indoors! Perfect for both the scorching hot New York summer and glacial winter days. No rain, no sleet, no snow!
Your New York City tour itinerary
At first you will admire the architecture and hear the stories about Cornelius Vanderbilt. Then we'll move inside to discover the obvious and what's hidden in plain sight. You will learn all the symbolism carved into the building. We will look at old and new art while discussing what inspired their placement in the Terminal. You will witness the operation of this well choreographed "ballet" and see how it is all coming together. Then we will proceed down where several stories and experiences are awaiting you. You'll hear how the lower level evolved and how we ended up with this new design. Then we will go even deeper where we will walk through the new addition to Grand Central which lies 14 stories below ground. Then I will bring you back to the surface where you will head to SUMMIT. There, you will start your self-guided trek where all activities are designed to make you discover the city from above. It is suggested to budget 90 mins to visit but you can certainly leave earlier or much later.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Walking
If picked up at your Manhattan logging, we'll use the subway.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
90 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017, United States
There is a restaurant directly across Grand Central on 42nd street under the viaduct. I will meet you right in front of it, you can't miss it! Also, I can offer to pick you up at your hotel or logging (available in Manhattan only).
- You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
Other details
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Languages
French
EnglishActivity level
Frequently asked questions
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3 hours
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3 hours
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.