Except for those working nearby or commuting through, it can be easy to forget Grand Central Station.   Tucked into the center of the city, between 42nd and 45th Street at Park Avenue with entrances on 42nd Street, Vanderbilt and Lexington Avenue, I often forget about it myself and I live just 3 blocks away (granted 3 long avenues away).

But if you are hungry, in need of a special gift or some retail therapy, or are simply in the mood for some NYC culture here’s why you should consider a visit to this New York City stunner landmark.

Free historic walking tours of Grand Central Terminal and the surrounding neighborhood two times a week.

Vanderbilt Hall, the Terminal’s 12,000 square foot former Main Waiting Room, offers a constant calendar of free events and exhibitions.  From October 5 – October 17 experience Venice and Verona in the Region of Veneto’s Open House, sponsored by the Columbus Citizen’s Foundation.

Grand Central Market alone is a reason to visit Grand Central.   Murray’s Cheese, Wild Edibles, Li-Lac Chocolates, Dishes at Home, Corrado Bread & Pastry, and Ceriello Fine Italian Foods are just a few of the food purveyors with outposts in the market.  I can’t walk through without buying something.  Mocha Fudge like no other from Li-Lac Chocolates, Polenta with Wild Mushroom Ragu from Dishes at Home and coconut shrimp from Pescatore are just a few of my favorites.

Causal dining is available in the Lower Level Dining Concourse, with tables and open seating for all, and kiosks as Pepe Roso, featuring traditional Italian fare, offer a unique counter in the middle of the concourse.  If you are not hungry when you arrive, you will be when you see Ciao Bella’s gelato selection, Paninoteca Italiana’s paninis and Eata Pita’s falafels.

Stores and services are great for both tourists and locals, from pharmacies to footwear Grand Central has it covered.  In need of a basic shoe repair head to Eddie’s Shoe Repair, with locations in the Biltmore Passage and Lower Level.  Need a little color in your home or office Pylones is your store for unique gifts and gadgets.  And for the men, don’t miss The Art of Shaving for the best in men’s skin care and shaving tools.

My favorite is Cursive, a sophisticated stationary boutique, featuring hand crafted and hard to find gifts from Europe, in the Lexington Passage.  And Pink Slip, for their great selection of basic and sexy lingerie, also located in the Lexington Passage.

For visitors and families don’t miss the Transit Museum Gallery and Store.  A great stop for New York transit lore and memorabilia.

And if you are ready to wind down from a long day and need a drink or some fine dining Grand Central is harboring some great choices as The Cambell Apartment, Formerly the private office and salon of 1920′s tycoon, John W. Campbell, and The Oyster Bar & Restaurant, a NY landmark and seafood food destination.

So whether you are hungry, need some culture or are ready to shop, consider a trip to Grand Central Terminal for a little enjoyment tucked right into the center of New York.

Enjoy!

Leslie