Things to do in Lower Manhattan

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Lower Manhattan showing a bay or harbor, a sunset and a city
Lower Manhattan showing a bay or harbor, a sunset and a city
Manhattan Bridge showing night scenes, a city and a bridge
The Oculus which includes outdoor art, street scenes and a city
Whitney Museum of American Art

Lower Manhattan Attractions

Discover the sights of Lower Manhattan with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {1134 fun activities in Lower Manhattan fun activities in Lower Manhattan}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning the vacation of a lifetime.


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Lower Manhattan must see attractions

1. Wall Street

Near the southern tip of Manhattan is New York City’s Wall Street, one of the world’s most active and influential financial districts. Walk through canyons created by wide buildings in which some of the world’s biggest business decisions are made. The area also has major government institutions and a famous national monument.
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2. One World Trade Center

Standing well above its skyscraping neighbors, One World Trade Center is a building that is easily identifiable from New Jersey and from most parts of the boroughs surrounding Manhattan. The reflective sheen of the structure’s glass is easy to mistake for metal, and its isosceles triangular façades give it the appearance of having a twisting motion toward the sky.
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NEW YORK - JULY 02 2016: Aerial view of the Freedom Tower at One World Trade Center, Manhattan, New York

3. Brooklyn Bridge

As one of the oldestand longest suspension bridges in North America, the Brooklyn Bridge has longbeen an icon of progress for New Yorkers. Spanning almost 1600 feet (487.7meters), the bridge crosses the East River and connects Lower Manhattan with Brooklyn. The bridgefeatures six lanes for automobiles and two lanes dedicated to pedestrians andcyclists, and carries more than 120,000 people daily. The Brooklyn Bridge haslong been a destination for tourists, and today visitors flock to the bridgefor stunning views up the East River, and for the history linked to the bridge.
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Panoramic view of Brooklyn Bridge and East River at sunrise with New York City, NY skyline post 9/11 view'

4. Battery Park

This waterfront parkis a favorite destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike, offering a quietrefuge from the hustle and bustle of downtown New York. Overlooking the NewYork Bay, Battery Park is the departure point for many of New York’s ferries,including the Staten Island, Ellis Island and Liberty Island ferries. Named forthe battery that protected the city during the 17th century, the park is fullof history, and has played an important role in shaping contemporary New Yorkculture. Visitors to the park can discover this through the monumentsthroughout the park, while enjoying one of the best sunsets in the city.
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Battery Park featuring a fountain, cruising and a park

5. National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum pay tribute to victims of the September 11 attacks in an area of somber tranquility in busy Lower Manhattan. Visit this spot, once the World Trade Center Twin Towers, then Ground Zero and now a peaceful park and museum.
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The National September 11 Memorial featuring a city

6. Washington Square Park

The best way to enter Washington Square Park is from the north, on 5th Avenue. As you pass high-end medical offices and views of the Empire State Building, you will emerge by the enormous archway and memorial that rises well above the rest of the park. Proceed under the arch and walk to the center of the park for another of its highlights. Here, you will find an enormous fountain that was once a popular hangout for bohemians, academics and artists.
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Washington Square Park featuring a garden

7. Whitney Museum of American Art

The renowned Whitney Museum of American Art has a sleek modern design and overlooks the Hudson River. Founded by a socialite and art patron in 1931, the museum has developed a focus on American art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Stroll past the various displays across many floors to grapple with contemporary U.S. art.
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Whitney Museum of American Art

What to do in Lower Manhattan

Free Things to Do in Lower Manhattan

A vacation in Lower Manhattan need not break the bank. You can leave your wallet behind if you go to:

Art in General - Organize a visit and enjoy an insight into the arts and culture of the area.

Coleman Square Playground - Loads of fun and action awaits you at this entertaining attraction.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York - If you like modern-day design and architecture, add this landmark to your must-see list.

New York City Civil Court - Get ready to feel like you've taken a step back in time while roaming around this historic site.

South Street Seaport - Mingle with some local residents and seek out the hidden character and soul of this wonderful place.

Soho Square - Plan a visit and discover the importance of this place to the community.

St Patrick's Old Cathedral - Connect with your spiritual side or just take in the serene atmosphere at this sacred site.

Collect Pond Park - If you like nurturing your garden, this place will satisfy your inner green thumb.

Things to Do in Lower Manhattan with Kids

Lower Manhattan is an excellent destination for a family vacation. Bring the youngsters along and try these popular family friendly experiences together:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Lower Manhattan

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan

SoHo - Tribeca which includes a city

SoHo

4.5/5(165 area reviews)

Discover cast-iron architecture in the SoHo-Cast Iron Historic District, and shop at trendy boutiques and chain outlets along Broadway, Prince, and Spring Streets. Easily accessible via multiple subway lines and bus routes.

SoHo
The Oculus which includes outdoor art, street scenes and a city

Financial District

4.5/5(1,560 area reviews)

Explore the symbolic center of global finance, walk along the harbor and admire New Yorkers’ resilience in this scenic area.

Financial District
East Village showing street scenes, a sunset and a city

East Village

4.5/5(65 area reviews)

Arts venues, parks, theaters and community centers anchor this Lower Manhattan neighborhood, an iconic backdrop to tales of New York City’s history.

East Village
Lower East Side

Lower East Side

4.5/5(234 area reviews)

Old combines with new and high art meets urban grit in this ever-changing and eclectic melting pot neighborhood with broad appeal.

Lower East Side
West Village showing a city, signage and cbd

West Village

This center for arts and culture is also one of the few places located off of the grid of Manhattan’s streets.

West Village
Tribeca featuring street scenes and a city

Tribeca

4.5/5(191 area reviews)

Consider a visit to Hudson River Park and take some time to enjoy the lively bars during your time in Tribeca. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Chambers St. Station (Hudson St.) or Chambers St. Station (Church St.).

Tribeca

 

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Popular day trips from Lower Manhattan

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Lower Manhattan on a sunny day?
What to do in Lower Manhattan on a rainy day?
There's no need to splish and splash your way through a rainy day when there are so many wonderful indoor activities like these on offer:


What should I not miss in Lower Manhattan?
If you're eager to experience the best of this destination, slot these attractions into your itinerary:

  • One World Trade Center
  • Battery Park
  • National September 11 Memorial
  • New York Stock Exchange

Are there cheap things to do in Lower Manhattan?
What can you do in Lower Manhattan for free?
You'll hardly have time to fetch your wallet out of your bag with so many incredible free attractions:

  • Battery Park
  • Federal Reserve Bank of New York
  • Wall Street
  • South Street Seaport

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