Things to do in Lower Manhattan

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A city skyline at sunset with prominent skyscrapers and a body of water in the foreground.
A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings and a bridge over a body of water.
A modern urban scene with a distinctive white sculpture, tall buildings, and pedestrians.
A modern building with glass windows and a rooftop garden. There are people sitting on benches and walking around.
A cityscape with modern buildings, a historic bridge, and a clear blue sky.

Lower Manhattan Attractions

Discover the sights of Lower Manhattan with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {976 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.

Things to do

NYC: Museum of Modern Art

NYC: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Entry Ticket

$30
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
NYC: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Entry Ticket
Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards

Edge Immersive Observation Deck Ticket

$43
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Edge Immersive Observation Deck Ticket
Top of the Rock Timed Admission

Top of the Rock Timed Admission

$50
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Top of the Rock Timed Admission
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise

$35
per adult
78% of travellers recommend
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise
The Lion King On Broadway

The Lion King On Broadway

$148
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
The Lion King On Broadway
NYC 60 Min. Sightseeing Cruise

Statue of Liberty & Manhattan Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

$25
per adult
Statue of Liberty & Manhattan Skyline Sightseeing Cruise
Picture 1 for Activity NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Cruise – Freedom Liberty Tour

NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Cruise – Freedom Liberty Tour

$24
per adult
NYC: Statue of Liberty Express Cruise – Freedom Liberty Tour
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Lower Manhattan must see attractions

1. 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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A cityscape with a prominent skyscraper, dense urban buildings, and a waterfront.

2. 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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The Brooklyn Bridge spanning the East River with the Manhattan skyline in the background.

3. 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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A street sign for Wall St. with American flags.

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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A park with a fountain, trees, and a view of the Statue of Liberty.

5. 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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A city park with an archway, trees, and a fountain.

6. 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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A modern cityscape with tall skyscrapers and a reflective water feature in the foreground.

7. Hudson River Park

Many New Yorkers remember their first time at Hudson River Park with a smile. Whether it’s the sound of the currents lightly splashing against Manhattan, the views of Hoboken or the numerous yachts docked just feet from a golf course, this place makes a powerful impression.
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A cityscape with a prominent skyscraper in the background, surrounded by trees and a pedestrian walkway.

8. Manhattan Bridge

Whether you begin in Brooklyn or Manhattan, crossing the Manhattan Bridge is always an impressive sight. During the day, the unmistakable New York City skyline gleams with skyscrapers. Even late at night, the stretch of lights in both directions reminds you why New York is called “the city that never sleeps.” Cross this bridge for its magnificent views, and remember to get your own picture of the scene found on many postcards.
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A large suspension bridge with a blue sky in the background.

Recommended things to do in Lower Manhattan

Number of things to do
976
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
5G eSIM USA | 3-30 Days | DayPass/Total | QR code: $3
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

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:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Lower Manhattan? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Lower Manhattan attractions

A cityscape with a prominent skyscraper, dense urban buildings, and a waterfront.

One World Trade Center

9.4/10 (37,071 reviews)
Standing at 1,776 feet, One World Trade Center symbolizes resilience on the site of the 9/11 attacks. Ascend to the observatory in under 60 seconds for breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City's iconic skyline.
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Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Lower Manhattan

A red boat on a river with a bridge and a city skyline in the background.

New York

A city skyline with a prominent skyscraper reflecting on the water.

Jersey City

A waterfront promenade with a city skyline in the background, including the Empire State Building.

Hoboken

A bridge with an American flag, a city skyline, and a waterfront park.

Brooklyn

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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