Lower Manhattan is of great historical importance in New York City. This area is filled with amazing attractions such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, and the 9/11 Memorial. However, according to Sarah Funk, a licensed tour guide in New York City, many travelers go wrong by spending more time at photo booths and touristy places instead of seeing the best of all.
Here are some must-visit spots for discovering Lower Manhattan.
Start at the Oculus or One World Trade Center
The starting point could be the Fulton Center which is located near the Oculus, there is an eye-catching architectural construction that symbolizes a bird in flight. The area was reconstructed after the events of 11 September and has restaurants, shops, and services.
What is more, One World Trade Center of 1,776 feet is next to the Oculus. Its height imitates the year 1776 when America got independence.
Visitors to the memorial can see two pools that stand in the footprints of the former Twin Towers. The waterfalls symbolize an experience of grief, while the name of those who passed away in the incident is engraved on panels surrounding it. The museum behind the memorial gives valuable insights into what happened on that tragic day.
A short distance away, Trinity Church was built in the 17th century, though the building visible today was completed in 1846. The grave of Alexander Hamilton can be found in the yard.
Another stop is Wall Street and historical sites associated with it.
Wall Street is a historical financial hub of the Unites States. The name of the area comes from the wooden wall made of wood by the Dutch settlers.
At Federal Hall, visitors will discover the statue of George Washington, the first president of the United States, who was sworn in here in 1789, when the city also acted as the capital of the country.
Another important landmark is the NY Stock Exchange, dating back to 1792 when the first set of trades was conducted under the Buttonwood tree. The Fearless Girl statue located nearby has also gained worldwide fame as a feminist symbol.
Instead of standing around in a long line to snap a photograph of the iconic Charging Bull statue, Funk suggests going to see the Fearless Girl statue and Bowling Green Park, which is nearby. In fact, it has flags celebrating Evacuation Day, which occurred on November 25, 1783, when British troops left New York.
Where to eat and drink in Lower Manhattan
For lunch, Funk recommends The Dead Rabbit, an Irish bar that won several awards for its cocktails and pub food, such as chicken pot pie and bangers and mash.
People can also visit Stone Street that is known as one of the oldest paved streets in New York City and by the same token, a great destination for nightlife. The Bedford is recommended for drinks and gastro-pub food.
Those who prefer a historical experience can visit Delmonico’s which is in operation since 1827 and is famous for such dishes as Eggs Benedict and Baked Alaska. It is recommended to make a reservation or two in advance.
Another historical option is Fraunces Tavern built in 1719 and associated with George Washington and the founding fathers.
Best Views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge
The Statue of Liberty can be seen from Battery Park without the need for a ferry. Those who want to get up close and personal with this beautiful statue should take a Classic Harbor Line cruise which provides viewers with the sight of both the statue and its skyline counterpart, the breathtaking Manhattan. The tickets should only be bought from the known sources in order to avoid the fraud sellers around Battery Park.
If someone is searching for the best views of the city, they should go to Overstory rooftop bar, situated at 70 Pine Street. This rooftop bar is located above the multi-awarded restaurant Saga, and it should be reserved ahead of time.
The next stop should be made at the South Street Seaport. This old district has preserved buildings from the 19th century. These including Bowne & Co. Stationers, the Wavertree ship built in 1885, the South Street Seaport Museum, and Pier 17.
Pier 17 offers amazing views of the Brooklyn Bridge with Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges not far away. A perfect way to finish sightseeing in Lower Manhattan is to visit this outstanding place.
