Exploring Penn Station and Moynihan Train Hall: Past, Present, and Future
See remnants of the old Penn Station and the brand-new Moynihan Train Hall
When Pennsylvania Station opened its doors in 1910 the McKim, Mead, and White designed building was hailed as an engineering and architectural wonder. Despite being built to last the ages, however, it would be torn down only a few decades later. This walking tour is dedicated to what is, without a doubt, the most famous legally demolished building in NYC and its much-maligned replacement.
We’ll trace the remnants of the original building, explore how the layout compares with the current site, visit the recent Moynihan Train Hall expansion, and via the High Line – Moynihan Connector, end our tour in Hudson Yards.
Join us for a walk filled with the story of sandhogs, railroad barons, beaux-arts architecture, and the rise of the modern-day landmarks preservation movement.
Tour highlights will include:
- The history of the original Penn Station, the road to its notorious destruction, and what the future may hold for the site
- Discover hidden remnants of the original 1910 Penn Station scattered around the current station
- A site-specific comparison of Penn Station now vs. then, using photos of the original structure
- A walk through Moynihan Train Hall to learn about its transformation from the city’s main post office to the latest expansion for Penn Station
- Learn the historical inspirations for the art pieces in Penn Station and Moynihan Train Hall
- At the end of the walk, we’ll stroll across the High Line-Moynihan Connector to learn how NYC railroad history helped create Hudson Yards and the High Line
The Tour
This tour walks from Penn Station to the High Line. It starts near the intersection of 7th Avenue and 33rd Street and ends in Hudson Yards.
Duration
2 hours and about 1.5 miles of walking
Rates
$40
Please contact us to set up a private tour!
Ages
This tour is best suited for ages 12+
Tour Guide
James Hoffman, a seasoned New York City tour guide with over a decade of experience. He has set up a diverse collection of sightseeing walks, bike tours, and cocktail history-themed events. He is also a member of the Guides Association of New York City (GANYC), working alongside fellow members to promote live tour guides.
Prep for the tour by listening to this Bowery Boys podcast episode on The Destruction of Penn Station.