The South Street Seaport has evolved in recent years. And I say this enthusiastically, it has evolved for the better! Once upon a time when I first moved to NYC, the Seaport District was more akin to a tourist trap for generic souvenirs and over-priced so-so meals on the waterfront.
Today, you find a more elevated experience in this historic seaside area. Along the cobblestone streets, there is a slew of excellent dining options with outdoor seating galore. There is a large smattering of interesting shops including Bowne & Co Print Shop and the beloved McNally Jackson bookstore.
The South Street Seaport Museum offers tours of its tall ships and shares the maritime history of the area. The Black Gotham Experience adds further history and gives important new context to Lower Manhattan. Founder Kamau Ware has created a compelling, multifaceted space for visual storytelling in the heart of the District.
Stroll-able waterfront piers, the rooftop seasonal "Greens" on Pier 17, and the adjacent river decks provide tremendous views of iconic New York City sites. Canons Walk and Schermerhorn Row help set the stage with the architecture of the era.
South Street Seaport District Mini-itinerary
Titanic Memorial Park - Pause to read the plaque on the lighthouse monument which commemorates the planned Atlantic crossing of the lost ocean liner
Cannon's Walk - It's easy to walk right past this small, quiet courtyard behind the Seaport Museum. So don't blink or you'll miss it! It's well worth a quick stroll through to step back in time.
Bowne & Co. - Seaport Museum Gift Shop and recreated 19th-century print shop
McNally Jackson Books - a beloved and wonderfully curated local NYC bookstore chain
Fulton Stall Market - This petite indoor farmer's market (with a convenient sink for hand washing when you walk in the door) offers regional produce, dairy, and fresh baked goods (try the chocolate chip cookies)!
Pier 17 Restaurants and Heineken Riverdeck - Find fantastic views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty
Bathroom Tip: super clean public restrooms can be found on Level 4
of the Pier 17 building
Neighborhood Note
In 2012, the South Street Seaport was hit hard by Hurricane Sandy. The neighborhood is still recovering in many ways, and the community is pushing for intelligent redevelopment to happen here. Grassroots groups like Save Our Seaport are taking a seat at the table to ensure the maritime history and inherent character of the area are well preserved.
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