World’s Longest Railway Station Has 44 Platforms, 67 Tracks, And A Secret... Took... Years To Build

New York’s Grand Central Terminal, the largest railway station in the world, has remained a marvel of architecture and functionality for over a century. Built over a span of 10 years, construction began in 1903, and despite being incomplete, it was officially opened to the public on February 2, 1913. The station’s grand inauguration drew more than 150,000 visitors on its first day, marking the beginning of its legacy as one of the busiest railway hubs in the world. 

The terminal holds the Guinness World Record for the largest railway station, boasting 44 platforms and 67 tracks. Unlike most stations, two of its tracks are entirely underground, making it an engineering marvel. Spread across 48 acres, the station’s scale and architectural brilliance make it more than just a transportation hub—it is a historic and cultural landmark. 

Grand Central Terminal is renowned for its breathtaking design, attracting millions of tourists each year. The grand concourse, with its celestial ceiling mural and high-arched windows, creates a sense of timeless elegance. "Stepping into Grand Central feels like entering a palace," said an architecture enthusiast visiting the terminal. The station’s intricate Beaux-Arts design has made it a symbol of New York’s grandeur. 

Despite its historical charm, the station remains a key transit point. Every day, around 125,000 passengers travel through Grand Central, with 660 Metro North trains passing through. Its sheer volume of visitors also leads to thousands of misplaced belongings—nearly 19,000 items are reported lost annually, prompting the station to maintain a dedicated lost-and-found office. 

Beyond being a transportation hub, Grand Central has cemented its place in pop culture. The terminal has served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films, further enhancing its iconic status. Many visitors come not to catch a train but to marvel at the station’s architectural beauty, capturing its essence in photographs and film. 

One of the station’s most iconic features is the opal clock in the main concourse. Visible from all directions, the clock has become a popular meeting spot. Locals often say, “Meet me by the clock,” a phrase synonymous with the station’s bustling atmosphere. 

Adding to its mystique, Grand Central houses a secret platform—Track 61—hidden beneath the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. Designed specifically for former U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the platform allowed discreet access to the hotel, bypassing public scrutiny. This secret track has never been opened to the general public, adding an element of intrigue to the station’s history. 

Over the decades, Grand Central Terminal has stood as a testament to New York’s rich history, blending functionality with timeless elegance. More than just a railway station, it remains a living piece of the city’s heritage, drawing millions of visitors and commuters alike.