South Street Seaport is a friendly neighbourhood in Lower Manhattan, an iconic place that combines New York’s maritime history with modern attractions. The presence of the old port and some of the city’s oldest buildings make it a top tourist destination, especially as Wall Street and Battery Park are just a stone’s throw away.
The history of South Street Seaport
South Street Seaport is an iconic New York neighbourhood with a history that dates back to the city’s earliest days, when New York was a thriving port linking America to the rest of the world. Situated on the banks of theEast River, the district is often considered to be the cradle of New York’s maritime trade.
South Street Seaport was one of New Yorks’ main commercial ports in the 19th century, linking the city to the rest of the world by sea. The Fulton Street docks were bustling with activity, with large sailing ships carrying exotic goods and passengers from Europe. Today, visitors can still feel this history as they stroll around the old brick warehouses, which have been preserved and transformed into shops and restaurants.
At the heart of the district, the South Street Seaport Museum tells the story of the port through its exhibitions and historic ships. These include the Wavertree and Ambrose, reminders of the port’s former grandeur. The area went into decline in the early 20th century with the advent of steamships and the development of new ports, but was revitalised in the 1960s and modernised after Hurricane Sandy. Today, the Seaport combines its maritime heritage with modern attractions such as Pier 17, while retaining traces of its fascinating past. Visiting South Street Seaport gives you a better understanding of how New York became the global city it is today, while enjoying a unique atmosphere that blends history and modernity.
Visit South Street Seaport: 20-minute walking tour
Fulton Street Station
Titanic Memorial Lighthouse
South Street Seaport Museum
Fulton Market
Pier 17
Pier 15
Elevated Acre
Where to eat in South Street Seaport
South Street Seaport is packed with restaurants offering a variety of culinary options to suit all tastes. If you’re looking for a fine dining experience with a view, The Fulton restaurant, run by celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, offers excellent seafood dishes in an elegant setting overlooking the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, you can head to Pier 17, home to several restaurants and bars, including the Heineken Riverdeck, perfect for sipping a beer while admiring the view over the water. You’ll also find a variety of options including tacos, pizzas and dishes inspired by world cuisines.
Fulton Stall Market is another great choice for foodies. This market offers local produce, food stalls and takeaways, perfect for a quick lunch or picnic along the East River Waterfront.
6 recommended food stops at South Street Seaport
Where to stay in South Street Seaport
South Street Seaport, with its historic ambience and proximity to the East River, offers a unique setting in which to stay in New York. Although the area is best known for its cultural attractions and restaurants, it also offers quality accommodation options, ideally located for exploring the city while enjoying a tranquil atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of the rest of Manhattan.
The hotels at South Street Seaport all have excellent public transport links, including Fulton Street Station, which serves several major New York underground lines. In addition to the underground, nearby ferries provide access to Brooklyn and other key points in the city, as well as magnificent views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge.
One of the advantages of staying in this area is the calm and relaxed atmosphere it offers, while still being within walking distance of some of New York’s biggest attractions, such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the Financial District. Unlike more touristy areas such as Times Square, South Street Seaport is less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat after a busy day exploring the city.
2 recommended hotels near South Street Seaport
AC Hotel New York Downtown
Neighbourhoods near South Street Seaport
