Macy's Herald Square

From its very inception, Macy's Herald Square was a store unlike any other and over the past 150 years it has become a true New York City icon. Built in 1902, Herald Square was the first building to have the modern day escalator. Since then, Macy's Herald Square has continued to be a trendsetter and today, "America's Largest Department Store" covers an entire city block with ten and a half levels of the latest fashions for you and your home. For your convenience, Macy's offers a full service Visitor Center located on the Lower Level, restaurants throughout the store and exciting events almost every day.

 

History

 

Macy's Original Wooden Escalators
Built in 1902, Macy's Herald Square was the first building in the world to have the modern day escalator. The wooden escalators are still in use today!

 

Becoming "The World's Largest Store"
In 1924, upon completion of the 7th Avenue addition, Macy's was declared the "World's Largest Store". This year also marked the birth of an American tradition: The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®! Then, the famous helium balloons were introduced to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1927. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Macy's continued to be an innovator among department stores by selling pre-fabricated houses, airplanes and automobiles on the 9th Floor of Herald Square.

Miracle on 34th Street
The still-classic holiday film, Miracle On 34th Street opens in 1947 and is set in Macy's Herald Square, proving that Macy's has the one and only true Santa Claus.

My Heart Will Go On
Isidor and Ida Straus, co-owners of Macy's, die tragically with almost 1,500 other passengers of the Titanic. It was widely reported that Isidor declined an offer to escape on a lifeboat so long as there were women and children on the ship. Ida also declined the offer to stay behind with her husband and reportedly gave away the fur coat she was wearing to her maid to keep her warm while on the lifeboat.

Happy 150th Birthday, Macy's!
Macy's celebrates its 150th birthday on October 28th, 2008. In true Macy's style, this milestone is marked by celebrity-filled mega-events, community and charity initiatives, commemorative product and new exclusive brand launches.

 

Group Programs

 

Macy's Historic Store Tour
Guided Group Tour- 60 mins
Macy's offers educational groups a fun, fast and fact-filled store tour. Learn how Macy's has grown into America's largest department store with over 800 locations from its humble beginnings, over 150 years. Our knowledgeable tour guides can cater to different group sizes and age groups as they discuss history, marketing concepts, merchandising, visual techniques and more. All participants receive the Macy's Visitor Savings Pass. The cost of the tour is $12 for a minimum group of 10.

Breakfast Fashion Show
Private Group Program - 90 mins
Macy's most popular group event! Guests are greeted at the door and escorted inside "America's Largest Store" for a sneak preview before it even opens. Guests enjoy a private buffet-style breakfast while learning about the entertaining history of Macy's and the newest fashion trends, presented by a well-known New York stylist. Models are optional, and will incur an additional cost. All participants receive a Macy's tote bag and the Macy's Visitor Savings Pass. Cost varies based on number of guests and menu selected.

Chef Demo with 4 Course Cooking Class
Private Group Program - 90 mins
De Gustibus world-class kitchen and entertaining space may very well have the perfect combination of elements for your personal or corporate event. We can customize an afternoon to create an unforgettable culinary experience, including chef demonstrations, while students observe, ask questions and enjoy a 4 course, 5 star meal, paired with wines. Cost varies based on number of guests.

Cosmetic Master Class
Private Group Program - 45 mins
Let a Macy's make-up artist and cosmetic specialist guide your group through the best application tips and help guests create their own unique look in a private setting. All participants will receive the Macy's Visitor Savings Pass. Cost varies based on number of guests and individual gift cards are optional.

Macy's Modern Man
Private Group Program- 45 mins
Let a Macy's skin care expert and stylist guide your group through the best application tips and help guests create their own unique look, from coordinating the perfect tie/pocket square pairing to The Art of Shaving in a private setting. All participants will receive the Macy's Visitor Savings Pass. Cost varies based on number of guest. Individual gift cards are optional.

Wine and Truffle Tasting Class
Private Group Program - 60 mins
Whether you are a novice or an expert to the world of wine, why not try our wonderful wine tasting class, paired with a unique selection of truffles at the Herald Square Café or Stella 34. Prior reservations required.