Best known for being home to Wall Street, there are lots of exciting and interesting things to do in Lower Manhattan. The area offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities and is steeped in fascinating American history. Here are our top tips for laces to go and things to see!
Wall Street
Instantly recognisable from dozens of movies, Wall Street is, of course, home to the New York Stock Exchange. Pre-9/11, you could take a tour of the buzzing trading floor but sadly, these days tourists aren’t allowed inside. However, you can get a selfie in front of the iconic façade, before heading to the Museum of American Finance. Located in the old Bank of New York building, this museum tells you everything you need to know about the dollar.
Museums
If you are looking for some interesting things to do in Lower Manhattan then this corner of New York has a whole host of niche museums and exhibitions!
Architecture and history buffs alike won’t want to miss the Skyscraper Museum where you can learn about the forces and individuals that shaped the city’s spectacular skyline. Get a real insight into New York’s Jewish roots at the Museum of Jewish Heritage. You can also explore a fascinating snapshot of American Indian history at one of the free Smithsonian museums, the National Museum of the American Indian.
Battery Park
No matter which New York neighbourhood you find yourself in, you won’t be far from an urban oasis. In Lower Manhattan, that greenery is the revamped Battery Park. A 25-acre public park, Battery Park is dotted with statues and memorials, including the American Merchant Mariners’ Memorial. Overlooking New York Harbour and Lady Liberty herself, this is the perfect spot to spend a few hours.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
No visit to Lower Manhattan is complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Ferries to Liberty Island depart from Battery Park, offering stunning views of New York Harbor before you arrive at America’s most iconic symbol of freedom. On neighboring Ellis Island, you can walk through the historic Immigration Museum, where millions of people once began their American journey.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
A short walk away, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum provides a moving tribute to the lives lost on September 11, 2001, with twin reflecting pools and deeply impactful exhibits that make it one of the city’s most unforgettable sites.
Freedom Tower
Lower Manhattan’s newest and biggest sight is 1WTC, or the Freedom Tower. This glistening skyscraper is now home to the much-loved One World Trade Center. Head to the observation deck of the One World Observatory on the 102nd floor for what is arguably the best view of New York City, and notably the tallest tower in the USA.
Century 21
Lower Manhattan retail mecca, Century 21 on Cortlandt Street is a fashion landmark. Loved by both visitors and locals, you can easily spend hours looking through the racks. There is often up to 70% off the retail price, so you can really bag some designer bargains. Top tip: Our advice is to avoid it on Saturdays as it gets super busy and can prove to be a more stressful experience than retail therapy!
Stone Street
Dating back to 1658, making it one of the earliest paved streets in New Amsterdam (later New York). Stone Street is the place to go for bars, cafes or just a stroll along the cobblestone. For tasty margaritas try Mexican restaurant Mad Dog & Beans. Harry’s Café and Steak is also a crowd pleaser, whether you fancy a steak dinner or just a glass of wine.
The Fraunces Tavern
Nestled among the whopper skyscrapers is one of Manhattan’s oldest buildings. A landmark where John Adams and George Washington once frequented, the Fraunces Tavern on Pearl Street is a museum and restaurant rolled into one.
FAQ – Things to do in Lower Manhattan, NYC
How do I get to Lower Manhattan?
The area is easily reached by subway. Major stops include Fulton Street, Bowling Green, and World Trade Center. Ferries from Staten Island and Brooklyn also dock nearby.
Is Lower Manhattan walkable?
Yes. Many key attractions are within short walking distance of each other. The area is very pedestrian-friendly, especially around Battery Park, Wall Street, and the Seaport District.
Do I need to reserve museum tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance for popular museums. Not only will this guarantee your entry, but it can also help you skip long lines—especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons.
Want to discover Lower Manhattan, and New York’s other amazing neighborhoods, for yourself? Why not try one of our Small Group New York City Walking Tours? Take the stress out of your visit and enjoy a guided visit, so you can relax and take in the scenery without any of the hassle.
