South Street Seaport
The South Street Seaport is a historic district in Lower Manhattan adjacent to the Financial District. It dates back to the seventeenth century and was the center of commerce in New York City until the 1850s, when steamships came into widespread use. They required deeper water, and the main port moved to the other side of Manhattan, along the Hudson River. The area fell into disuse until the sixties. In 1967 the South Street Seaport Museum opened in the former port.
The museum houses exhibits dedicated to maritime life; including paintings, memorabilia, and ship models. There is also a working 19th century print shop. The museum has a fleet of eight historic ships, some of which take guests out on the water in favorable weather. They are the highlight.
In the 1980s, efforts were made to turn the South Street Seaport into a tourist attraction and a mall opened on the former Pier 17. It offers middle tier designer brands and some interesting shops. There are also lots of places to eat. The South Street Seaport has plenty to offer, but if you’re looking for an authentic New York experience, look elsewhere.
Address: Fulton & South Streets, Pier 17
Subway: Fulton Street
Website: http://www.southstreetseaport.com/
South Street Seaport Museum
Hours: January-March open Thursday-Sunday 10:00-17:00
April-December open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-18:00
Admission:
$15.00 Adult
$12.00 Senior (65+)/Students
Children under 2 Free
Cruises available starting at $40.00