What was once the center of New York City’s commercial maritime trade, South Street Seaport has gone through a gentrification creating an eclectic hub of communication, technology, shopping, and dining. This designated historic district with its charming cobblestone streets is home to some of the oldest architecture in Manhattan. It borders the Financial District but South Street Seaport radiates a much different vibe.
In 2012, this historic area was struck a devastating blow by Hurricane Sandy. Due to the extensive damage, many businesses were forced to close or struggled to survive. One of the sites hit the hardest was the popular shopping area of Pier 17. After a long rebuilding process, South Street Seaport is coming back better than ever.
South Street Seaport Museum is one of several museums listed as one of Americas National Maritime Museums. This nautical attraction encompasses a 12-square block of this area’s historic district. Visitors can enjoy all the museum as to offer including an exhibition gallery, a working 19th-century print shop, and the largest collection of privately owned historic ships in the country.
Learn interesting facts and dive into the history of the seaport area with a walking tour. On the last Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of each month visitors can enjoy a 1-hour guided tour with dedicated themes.
WEDNESDAY – Rum Rummers and Revolutionaries
Learn all about the inner workings on the city’s East River waterfront during the Prohibition era, the Great Depression, and the Cuban Revolution.
THURSDAY – The Curious Life of the Brooklyn Bridge
Visitors can hear the harrowing stories of the brave workers who risked their lives in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge plus learn about the bridge’s hidden vaults.
FRIDAY – Sex, Liquor, and Murder
Walk through Wicked Ward and hear the stories of crime and murder that lurked within this area. (adults only 18+ evening tour)
Tickets: $20
Time: 6pm
Duration: 1 hour
After a detailed renovation following the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy, Pier 17 is putting on its finishes touches and is due to open its doors by the Fall of 2018. The newly renovated Pier 17 is sure to be a top tourist destination with a trendy and unique concept which includes the opening of 10 Corso Como. Pier 17 will house a retail experience like no other. Founded in Milan, 10 Corso Como blends the best in trendy shops, decadent dining, eclectic art, and hip music. Their unique concept is to give the visitor a feeling of turning the pages of a magazine and it’s all under one roof.
ESPN is about to open a 19,000 square foot facility in Pier 17. They will broadcast live radio and offer a studio show.
South Street Seaport is home to the leader in luxury entertainment complexes, iPic Theatre. Visitors can enjoy chef-prepared cuisine, order a cocktail and sit back and enjoy the latest movie releases.
Does your travel itinerary include taking in a Broadway show? Visitors can skip the long queue in Times Square and get their tickets at the South Street Seaport TKTS ticket booth.
For more unmissable things to do and see, check out our guide to the best New York tours.
Leave a Reply