Morgan Library to Grand Central: Blockbooks & 1923 Cocktails

Step inside The Morgan Library & Museum to view Graphic Devotions, featuring the Dutch blockbook Ars moriendi (about 1467–69). The Morgan acquired 15 leaves in 2022 to rejoin 9 leaves bought by Pierpont Morgan in 1902, reuniting the only complete copy known. Wander the soaring triple-tier bookcases before viewing the 24 leaves. Admission on Friday 5–8 PM is free with advance reservation (tickets release online one week in advance, around 10/30 for 11/06); standard adult admission is $25 if reservations fill.

Head north along Madison Avenue and turn east on 43rd Street to reach The Campbell, tucked into the southwest corner of Grand Central Terminal at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue. Financier John W. Campbell took this Florentine-inspired room as his private office in 1923; the 25-foot hand-painted ceilings, a century-old leaded window, the stone hearth, and his steel safe are all still here. Sit by the fireplace with a cocktail — open daily 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM (reservations recommended via official website). The house asks for smart casual attire, especially during dinner service (gentlemen: please skip T-shirts, shorts, baseball hats, and open-toed shoes). Guests under 21 are welcome with an adult until 9 PM.

Start among Morgan’s 1902–06 McKim-designed bookcases, then cross ten minutes of Midtown to Campbell’s 1923 Italianate office. The walk carries you from a Gilded Age study to a 1920s salon, both once private retreats for prominent financiers doing business blocks apart. Stroll past the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building or Grand Central Terminal along the route.