Things to Do in Lower Manhattan and Downtown NYC

By <a href="#author-bio">Kirsten McCroskrie</a>
By Kirsten McCroskrie

Looking for things to do in Lower Manhattan?

The lower portion of New York City is one of the busiest places in the world; so naturally, there are a ton of fun things to do.

Lower Manhattan is defined as everything south of 14th Street toward the New York Harbor (also referred to as “Downtown”). Downtown Manhattan is known for its presence of government infrastructure and lots of businesses.

From waterfront Battery Park to cruises and museums, Lower Manhattan offers visitors a diverse assortment of activities that you can’t find elsewhere in the city.

Waterfront/The Battery

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The Battery, formerly known as Battery Park, is an excellent area to relax and enjoy the waterfront, as well as numerous water-based activities like harbor cruises.

A historic park in itself, named after the artillery batteries that were stationed there in the early years to protect the city, a visit to the park is a great way to soak up a little bit of early-NYC history.

In addition to The Battery's proximity to the harbor, it’s a popular spot for New York natives to work out, attend seasonal public entertainment events, or enjoy a take-away meal al fresco.

Cruises in Downtown Manhattan

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If you’re looking to cruise in historic fashion, Manhattan By Sail offers the Clipper City Tall Ship Cruise and the Shearwater Classic Schooner; both are notable cruise ships that have stood the test of time and provide beautiful views of NYC.

The Clipper City Tall Ship was originally a cargo ship that was first used in Wisconsin just before the Civil War. As for the Shearwater Classic Schooner, the ship was first launched in 1929 and was officially deemed a National Landmark in 2009.

Battery Park is also where you can hope on the Statue Cruises ferry which takes visitors to and from the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The iconic statue is widely recognized as a symbol of hope in New York, the United States, and beyond and attracts visitors from around the world. After visiting Lady Liberty, you head to Ellis Island’s Immigration Museum to learn all about the history of immigration in the US.

Walking Tours in Downtown Manhattan

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With so much history in Lower Manhattan, the area is a great venue for guided walking tours, like the Secrets of Downtown Tour, NYC Slavery and Underground Railroad Tour, and the NYC Gospel Walking Tour.

Discover interesting little-known facts about Downtown on the Secrets of Downtown – Tour Lower Manhattan. It’s a great way to get familiar with the area’s history and learn about other fun things to do in Downtown Manhattan.

If you’re interested in the role NYC has played in finance, find out everything there is to know on the Wall Street Walks Tour which explores the Financial District and the history of the United States’ financial institutions and some of its most influential players, like Alexander Hamilton.

Museums in Downtown Manhattan

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Continue your financial exploration at the Museum of American Finance, which incorporates high-tech interactive media displays, before checking out some of Downtown Manhattan’s other museums.

One of the most popular NYC attractions, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is located Downtown in the footprints of the Twin Towers. The museum features gorgeous waterfalls honoring the September 11th attack victims. Inside, you can find artifacts from September 11, such as fire trucks that were on the scene, pieces of the original building, and more.

If you’re interested in New York City’s impressive skyline and architecture, head to The Skyscraper Museum. The museum even includes a detailed model of Manhattan with all of the borough’s buildings on display.

Kirsten McCroskrie
Kirsten McCroskrie
Content Lead

Kirsten is a Scottish-born and London-based travel writer and copywriter, who’s always planning her next sunny escape. Her passion for solo travel has seen her teaching English in rural Spain, taking a gap year to party in Berlin, and living on the road in South America. As well as Go City, Kirsten has written for Skyscanner, KAYAK, Trainline, Culture Trip, and momondo.

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Make the Most of Your One World Observatory Visit: What’s Nearby

You’ve reached the clouds at One World Observatory—snapped those skyline shots and marveled at the city shimmering beneath your feet. But the real magic is just beginning! Step outside and you’re smack in the heart of lively Lower Manhattan, where New York’s oldest secrets, tastiest bites, and most powerful stories are all within a stroll. Whether you’re into history, waterfront adventures, art, or just want that classic New York slice, we’ve curated the best things to do around One World Observatory for a day you’ll want to relive again and again.    Our top picks near One World Observatory include:  9/11 Memorial & Museum  Statue of Liberty  Battery Park  Wall Street Walking Tour  Brooklyn Bridge  Lower East Side Food and Culture Walking Tour  The Oculus  Best of NYC Cruise by Circle Line  Museum of American Finance  Stone Street Historic District  9/11 Memorial & Museum: Reflect and Remember  Step outside One World Observatory and you’re greeted by the moving beauty of the 9/11 Memorial. The two vast reflecting pools, set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, offer a powerful and peaceful space for reflection. The rushing water, names etched in bronze, and shaded groves of white oak trees all set a tone of remembrance that’s both sobering and hopeful.  Dive deeper into the story at the 9/11 Museum just adjacent. Down below street level, you’ll explore evocative exhibits, from twisted steel beams to everyday artifacts of resilience and survival. Interactive displays and personal audio stories bring history to life in a way that’s intimate, respectful, and unforgettable. No NYC visit is quite complete without this stop—it’s a tribute to the city’s courage and heart, right where it matters most.  Statue of Liberty: Meet Lady Liberty Up Close  Just a short walk to Battery Park brings you to ferry adventures with views of the city and a close encounter with the ultimate New York symbol: the Statue of Liberty. There’s a special energy waiting in the crisp harbor breeze, whether you’re posing for photos on the deck, peering up at Lady Liberty’s shining torch, or exploring the immigration stories at the Ellis Island Museum.  We can’t get enough of that “NYC dreamer” feeling as the skyline recedes behind you and the statue grows ever larger on the horizon. The ferry ride itself offers million-dollar views, and, once you’re on Liberty Island, the walking trails and museum spark an appreciation for all things freedom, hope, and new beginnings. Wear comfortable shoes: there’s plenty to discover!  Battery Park: Green Space by the Harbor  Before or after your ferry, Battery Park is your go-to chill zone, with sweeping Hudson River views and breezy promenades. Locals picnic by the gardens, street performers handle everything from jazz to juggling, and you can watch the boats glide through the harbor.  We especially love the SeaGlass Carousel, a delightfully quirky ride that feels like being inside an underwater daydream. If you’re a fan of hidden corners, don’t miss the gardens and memorials sprinkled through the park or the Castle Clinton National Monument, a round redoubt that’s worn many historic hats through the centuries. Grab a lemonade from a stand and soak up the vibe—Battery Park is one of those places where it’s easy to sit back, relax, and just enjoy being in New York.  Brooklyn Bridge: Stroll Above the City  Let’s be honest, you’re not leaving Lower Manhattan without making time for the Brooklyn Bridge. Just a 10-minute walk from One World Observatory, this architectural stunner lets you stride across the East River with classic skyline views on all sides. Whether you’re cycling (grab a Brooklyn Bridge Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking if you want to roll in style) or simply strolling, you’ll be treated to unbeatable photo ops and the unique thrill of feeling both in the middle of the city—and above it all.  On a sunny day, the stone arches and tangle of cables make the perfect backdrop for that NYC selfie or romantic walk. At sunrise, you’ll mostly share the path with joggers and local commuters; in the evening, city lights turn the bridge into a twinkling wonder. Once you hit Brooklyn, reward yourself with a slice, a pastry from a corner café, or a wander along Dumbo’s cobblestone streets.  Lower East Side Food and Culture Walking Tour: Eat, Laugh, Explore  Hungry for more? Venture just north to the Lower East Side and jump on a Food and Culture Walking Tour with a local guide. Here’s where old-school delis, bakeries, and trendy eateries combine to tell the story of New York’s ever-changing appetite.  You’ll sample perfect bagels, classic knishes, chewy bialys, and legendary pastrami—each with the backdrop of wild immigrant success stories and family-run storefronts. The neighborhood bursts with energy, mural art, and authentic local color. Our tip? Arrive hungry and prepare to leave with a whole new appreciation for New York’s edible history.  The Oculus: Shop, Snap, and Stroll  Technically a transportation hub, entirely a modern art statement—the Oculus is the architectural centerpiece of the World Trade Center complex. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this white-ribbed beauty soars overhead like a futuristic bird in flight. Inside, you’ll find high-end shops (Apple, Kate Spade, Eataly), buzzy cafés, and Instagrammable light everywhere you turn.  It’s the perfect place to window shop, cool off in steamy weather, or just marvel at engineering that’s both bold and serene. The cathedral-like ambience, stylish seating areas, and natural light make it both a shopping destination and a must-see for design fans. Bonus: there’s often pop-up art and musical performances to surprise you while you wander.  Museum of American Finance: Where Dollars Have Their Day  Finance nerds and big-dreaming kids, this one’s for you. Located in the heart of the Financial District, the Museum of American Finance brings the story of markets, money, and economic booms and busts to life. Exhibits cover everything from cryptocurrency to the birth of Wall Street, with vintage stock tickers, sparkling gold bars, and quirky artifacts galore.  It’s hands-on, surprisingly captivating, and cleverly curated—especially if you’ve just done a Wall Street walking tour and want to dig deeper. Even if you’re not planning your own IPO soon, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the ups, downs, and colorful characters that shaped America’s financial heart.  Stone Street Historic District: Old-World Charm, Modern Eats  Finish your downtown adventure with a taste of old New York on Stone Street. This cobblestone lane feels straight out of a European postcard, lined with 19th-century buildings, cozy pubs, and string-light-strewn outdoor seating. Locals cluster here for after-work drinks and long, laughter-filled meals.  Order a craft beer and Belgian fries at The Dubliner or grab a table at Adrienne’s Pizza Bar for their famous square slices—think pillowy, chewy dough topped with perfect, bubbling mozzarella and fresh basil. The vibe is equal parts buzzy and charming, especially in warmer months when the whole block turns into an open-air dining room with families, friends, and coworkers mingling under hanging lights. If you’re looking to wind down after a day of sightseeing, this is the perfect ending: great food, fascinating history, and that unbeatable New York atmosphere.  That’s just the beginning of what you’ll find steps from One World Observatory. From thought-provoking museums and world-famous monuments to unforgettable food, contemporary architecture, and timeless charm, Lower Manhattan packs plenty of adventures into every block. Whether you want a dose of history, a sweet waterfront breeze, or the perfect photo to make your friends jealous, you’ll discover endless ways to make your day near One World Observatory as spectacular as the view from the top.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to NYC’s MoMA, and learn how real New Yorkers navigate the city.     Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!    
things to do near madame tussauds a stones throw from the bright lights of times square
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Times Square Unlocked: Explore Near Madame Tussauds

You’ve partied with pop icons, grinned with superheroes, and maybe even out-posed a few presidents at Madame Tussauds New York. But the fun doesn’t stop when you step back onto West 42nd Street! Step into the neon heart of Times Square and you’ll find even more ways to make your NYC trip sensational—think sky-high views, secret speakeasies, world-class shows, and snacks worth a standing ovation. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or flying solo, the area around Madame Tussauds puts you at the center of the city’s biggest excitement. Here’s your must-do list for making every Midtown moment count.    Our fave things to do near Madame Tussauds:  Top of the Rock  Broadway and Times Square Tour by Experience First  RiseNY  The Museum of Broadway  Bryant Park  Ellen’s Stardust Diner  The Beast Speedboat Ride  The New York Public Library  Koreatown Eats  Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience  Top of the Rock: Take Your Selfies Sky-High  If you loved photos with the stars at Madame Tussauds, just wait until you’re 70 floors up at Top of the Rock! This legendary observation deck at Rockefeller Center offers show-stopping, 360-degree views—Central Park’s greenery to the north, a glowing Empire State Building to the south, and Manhattan’s hustle humming far below.  The vibe is pure “main character” energy: wedding proposals, happy reunions, legs dangling off the edge for the ultimate photo. There’s room to soak it all in, with indoor and outdoor viewing decks and plenty of space for that envy-inducing skyline selfie. Sunset is especially dazzling, so time your visit for golden hour if possible.  RiseNY: NYC’s Ultimate Flying Theater Experience  Right around the corner, RiseNY delivers thrills (without standing in line for a rollercoaster). This immersive attraction starts with a museum of New York’s most iconic pop culture moments before strapping you in for a soaring, flight simulation over the city’s sights.  You’ll hang above the city in front of a soaring screen—wind, mist, scents, and music included. It’s part inspiring, part “how did they do that?!” and 100% unique to the Big Apple. Come for a rush that rivals any blockbuster; leave with a fresh dose of city pride.  The Museum of Broadway: The Backstage Pass You Always Wanted  For anyone who’s ever imagined themselves under the marquee lights, The Museum of Broadway is pure joy. Dive into the shows, stories, and costume closets of New York’s legendary theater scene, from historic icons to modern-day hits.  The crowd is always buzzing—from superfans to visitors discovering Broadway’s magic for the first time—and the interactive exhibits practically beg for photos and singalongs. Original set pieces, famous costumes, and playful photo ops make this a must for musical lovers and anyone craving a bit of glitz and glam.  Bryant Park: Midtown’s Outdoor Playground  Just a few blocks east, Bryant Park offers a leafy oasis in the city’s concrete core. You’ll find office workers reclining in chairs, chess matches under the trees, and seasonal surprises—think winter skating or summer movie nights.  Grab a gelato, snag a table, and soak up the relaxed pace. Bonus: Bryant Park surrounds the stunning New York Public Library (worth a quick peek for those Insta-ready marble lions). It’s the perfect way to hit pause before the bright lights pull you back in.  Ellen’s Stardust Diner: Singing, Dancing, and Serious Sandwiches  If your crew is hungry and in show-tune mode, Ellen’s Stardust Diner is half diner, half Broadway audition. Singing waitstaff belt favorite hits between milkshakes and meatloaf, and the vibe is pure joy. Expect big crowds, big voices, and even bigger portions.  Order a classic burger, a sky-high stack of pancakes, or their legendary mac and cheese. There’s nothing subtle about it—just entertainment and NYC kitsch, bite after bite.  The New York Public Library: A Historic, Instagram-Famous Haven  It’s not just a library—it’s a grand, marble-palace creation that’s starred as the backdrop for everything from movies to wedding shoots. Duck inside to cool off, explore vast reading rooms, and snap a photo with the famous lions, Patience and Fortitude.  The library offers a calm, inspiring retreat—and often houses fascinating free exhibits on NYC history and culture. There’s a quiet buzz that feels worlds away from Times Square, but it’s only a short stroll from Madame Tussauds’ door.  Koreatown Eats: Sizzle, Snacks, and Sweet Treats  A ten-minute walk south drops you in Koreatown: Midtown’s 24-hour culinary playground. Hop from BBQ hotspots with table grills to bubble tea shops, late-night bakeries, and karaoke dens. Try crispy fried chicken at Pelicana or classic bibimbap at BCD Tofu House, then wind down with “snow ice” or mochi donuts at one of the neighborhood’s dessert caves.  The mood is always lively, with groups of friends, families, and after-work crowds devouring spicy, sizzling feasts. Go hungry—and stay for a nightcap and some people-watching.  Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience: Legendary Lights, Real Magic  Finish your Midtown adventure with backstage wonder at Radio City Music Hall. This Art Deco temple is just a pleasant stroll north, and the guided tour is the ultimate pass to New York’s showbiz secrets. You’ll see grand lobbies, historic murals, and, if luck is on your side, a Rockette or two rehearsing those perfect kicks.  The décor is jaw-dropping; the history, endlessly fascinating. If you’re a fan of glamour, music, or jaw-dropping stages, it’s a can’t-miss finale before you dive back into the neon.    From Midtown’s wild energy to its hidden cozy corners, there’s so much more to discover right outside Madame Tussauds. Whether you’re chasing Broadway dreams, bites, or skyline scenes, staying a little longer means turning a wax museum visit into an epic NYC day you’ll never forget!    Enjoyed this? Check out the top music spots in the city, or make the most of your visit to Brooklyn!    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!      
the high line in nyc and all the best things to do near it
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The High Line and What’s Next: Chelsea’s Coolest Finds

You’ve wandered the gardens, nabbed the skyline photos, and soaked in street art on the High Line. But don’t stop there—the world below this elevated park bursts with buzzing markets, world-class galleries, tempting bakeries, and surprises on every block. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or just in it for the city’s most colorful strolls, Chelsea invites you to turn your High Line adventure into a full-on New York experience. Ready to keep the buzz going? Here’s our cheat sheet for the best things to do near the High Line.    Our favorite things to do near The High Line include:  Whitney Museum of American Art  Chelsea Market  Vessel at Hudson Yards  ARTECHOUSE New York  Chelsea Galleries (art walk)  Little Island  Rubin Museum of Art  Gallow Green Rooftop  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour  Empire State Building  Whitney Museum of American Art: Modern Creativity Unleashed  Walk straight off the southern tip of the High Line and step into the Whitney—a light-filled temple to American art. This museum’s airy galleries showcase everything from edgy installations and contemporary photography to works by Hopper, O'Keeffe, Basquiat, and Kusama. The vibe is creative but approachable, and rotating special exhibitions guarantee something new every visit.  Don’t miss the outdoor terraces for killer downtown views and even more sculpture. Families will find interactive activities for kids, while art buffs can get happily lost for hours. The café's pastries and people-watching are a bonus. The Whitney radiates that buzzy, creative Chelsea energy—making it the perfect first stop after your park walk.  Chelsea Market: Foodie Wonderland  No NYC adventure is complete without a pit stop at Chelsea Market. This indoor food hall—just underneath the High Line—brings together everything from Brooklyn-style pizza to buttery lobster rolls, tacos, ramen, and the city’s most swoon-worthy doughnuts. It’s a feast for both your taste buds and Instagram feed.  The atmosphere is all hustle and local color: neon signage, bustling lunch crowds, and the enticing aroma of fresh-baked bread. Beyond eating, shop indie boutiques, browse pop-up stands, and marvel at the building's quirky industrial bones. Whether you want a fast bite or a full-on snack safari, Chelsea Market serves up New York flavor, no reservations required.  Vessel at Hudson Yards: Sculpture, Stairs, and Selfies  A short walk north from the High Line, Vessel looms like a beehive made for city explorers. While access to climb may fluctuate, the structure is worth seeing up close—its copper-colored spirals and staircases make it a magnet for photographers and future TikTok stars.  Plaza benches and water features surround the site, and you’re in the heart of Hudson Yards’ modern marvels—plenty to catch your eye, even if you stay earthbound. Stick around for nearby luxury shops, splashy public art, and skyline views that rival any rooftop bar.  Chelsea Galleries Art Walk: Contemporary Art, Free and Fierce  Art lovers, rejoice—Chelsea has the city’s highest density of contemporary galleries outside of Midtown. West 20s streets, especially between 10th and 11th Avenues, are dotted with pop-in free spaces. You’ll spot the blue-chip stars (think Gagosian, David Zwirner) but also plenty of indie newcomers.  The mood is welcoming, with gallery staff often happy to chat about what’s on view. Stroll with a coffee and take in everything from bold paintings and avant-garde installations to sculpture, video, and even performance art. No tickets, no pressure—just pure NYC creative spirit.  Little Island: Floating Park Fun  A few blocks south, Little Island rises from the Hudson on tulip-shaped columns. This whimsical new park is a garden in the air, with winding paths, live performances, and grassy hills begging for a picnic. There’s nothing quite like it for kids and adults alike.  You’ll find snack vendors, artful landscaping, and panoramic boardwalk views over the water. The mood is playful and innovative, and during summer the tiny amphitheater offers everything from jazz to family theater. For urban nature with a twist, Little Island is a fresh favorite.  Rubin Museum of Art: Serenity, Spirit, and Himalayan Treasures  Need a break from the buzzy city pace? The Rubin Museum, a 10-minute walk inland, offers a quiet treasure trove of Himalayan and Tibetan art. Rotating exhibits explore themes of mindfulness, mythology, and creativity in ways that inspire both seasoned art fans and total newbies.  The building’s spiral staircase, peaceful galleries, and meditative nooks set a calm mood. Pop in for an oasis of zen before diving back into Chelsea’s whirlwind energy.  Gallow Green Rooftop: Drinks on the Garden  For a little altitude with your adventure, head to Gallow Green at the McKittrick Hotel. This rooftop bar feels like a hidden garden in the clouds—think fairy lights, lush greenery, and creative cocktails that match the whimsical setting.  Afternoons are laid-back, but evenings buzz as friends gather for drinks, dinner, and urban sunsets. House specials like the “Sleep No More” cocktail add theatrical flair (appropriate, given the immersive theater inside). It’s the perfect post-High Line toast, whether you’re winding down or ramping up your Chelsea night.  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour: See the City from the Streets  Want to check even more NYC boxes after your High Line stroll? Hop on a Big Bus and take an open-air loop of downtown, uptown, and beyond. There’s a stop near Hudson Yards—just west of the High Line’s end—so you can catch a bus without hassle.  It’s all lively commentary, city trivia, and photo ops galore as you glide past neighborhoods old and new. Great if you want a break for your feet or a speedy way to get your bearings.    Walking the High Line is just the beginning. With world-class art, foodie favorites, secret gardens, and sky-high experiences, Chelsea and the neighborhoods around the High Line are where the city’s creative and culinary spirits truly shine. However you wander, every step off the elevated park is a new chapter in your New York story.    Enjoyed this? Why not check out some fun facts about the Empire State Building, or get the local lowdown on the Big Apple?    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!  
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