After Lady Liberty: Downtown NYC’s Must-See Spots

Published: February 26, 2026
statue of liberty with nyc behind, where there are some of the best things to do in the city

You’ve snapped your selfie at the Statue of Liberty, soaked up skyline views, and maybe even climbed to the crown (bravo!). But the adventure doesn’t end at the ferry terminal. Around Lady Liberty’s harbor, you’ll find a treasure trove of history, culture, and classic New York experiences—all just a ferry ride or short stroll away. From powerful museums and beautiful parks to mouthwatering eats and secret streets, Lower Manhattan is bursting with surprises that will make your day unforgettable. Ready to turn your Statue visit into the ultimate downtown NYC adventure? Let’s go! 

 

Our favorite things to do near the Statue of Liberty: 

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration 

Battery Park 

9/11 Memorial & Museum 

Liberty Cruise by Circle Line 

Wall Street Walking Tour 

The Oculus 

Stone Street Historic District 

Fraunces Tavern 

Museum of American Finance 

Charging Bull and Bowling Green 

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration: American Dreams, Real Stories 

After you’ve admired Lady Liberty, hop to Ellis Island—often included in your ferry ticket! Once the gateway for millions looking to build new lives, Ellis Island’s museum tells those stories through powerful photographs, personal artifacts, and interactive installations. There’s a buzz of discovery here; you’ll literally walk in the footsteps of new Americans, tracing names on ship manifests and imagining the emotions of arrival. 

Wander the restored Great Hall under soaring windows and listen to oral histories that make the distant past feel vivid and personal. The exhibits manage to be both moving and hopeful, spotlighting tales of courage and resilience. History buffs, genealogy fans, and anyone with a curious mind will leave inspired (and maybe a little misty-eyed). 

Battery Park: Green Spaces and Harbor Breezes 

Once back on Manhattan, take a wander through Battery Park. With flower-packed gardens, the sparkling harbor, and unbeatable views of the Statue herself, it’s the perfect re-entry point to the city. On sunny days, artists sell paintings and music drifts over the lawn. 

Check out the quirky SeaGlass Carousel, where fish-shaped pods swirl riders into a neon undersea daydream, or grab a lemonade and people-watch along the promenade. Battery Park is also peppered with memorials, sculptures, street performers, and a refreshing local energy that makes it perfect for a post-ferry stroll or quiet picnic. 

9/11 Memorial & Museum: For Those Lost

Uplifting and deeply moving, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is just a fifteen-minute walk from Battery Park. The two soaring fountains set within the original twin tower footprints create a peaceful, contemplative space. The museum’s underground galleries, filled with powerful testimonies and artifacts, invite you to reflect on recent history and the stories of resilience and unity that followed. 

Visits here feel both respectful and hopeful. The space’s design is strikingly beautiful, and you’ll come away with a sense of connection to New York’s strength and spirit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, there’s always something new to discover. 

Liberty Cruise by Circle Line: See the City from the Water 

Already loving those harbor views? Take them up a notch with a Liberty Cruise from Circle Line. These lively boat trips set sail from nearby piers and offer fresh takes on the skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and, of course, Lady Liberty from every angle—no crowds, no stress. 

What makes these cruises special isn’t just the views. Commentary from local experts adds fun facts, history, and the occasional bad joke, which somehow just feels right on the Hudson. Combine this cruise after your Liberty Island trip for the ultimate “two ways to see the statue” combo—your camera roll will thank you. 

Wall Street Walking Tour: Follow the Money, Feel the Energy 

Looking to mix a little money magic into your day? A Wall Street walking tour brings you right to the heart of the Financial District. Guides regale you with tales of market crashes, Gilded Age drama, and jaw-dropping legends about the city’s most famous (and infamous) traders. 

Stroll down canyons of glass and stone, pose by the New York Stock Exchange, and stand on the spot where George Washington took the oath of office. The energy here is totally unique—fast-paced, historic, and undeniably “New York.” You don’t have to know your Dow from your Nasdaq; the stories alone are worth the walk. 

The Oculus: Where Shopping Feels Like Flying 

Not just a transit hub, the Oculus is a soaring architectural wonder just north of Battery Park. Designed to look like a dove taking flight, this breathtaking space is both a photo op and a shopping destination—filled with fashion, tech, and food options for every taste. The natural light and dramatic lines make even grabbing a coffee here feel special. 

Stop by for a snack or a bit of retail therapy (hello, Eataly’s cannoli bar!), or just sit beneath the vast, ribbed arches and take in the buzz. It’s proof that even a subway stop can wow in New York. 

Stone Street Historic District: Pub Hopping with Old-World Charm

Cobblestoned and full of character, Stone Street is a little slice of Old New York just a quick stroll from Battery Park. Here, old brick buildings house some of the city’s coziest pubs and best patios. At lunchtime, locals spill out onto communal tables for burgers and pints; by evening, the string lights twinkle and the vibe is pure conviviality. 

Must-tries: Grab a pizza from Adrienne’s, sample craft brews at The Growler, or share plates of Belgian fries at The Dubliner. It’s a lively spot that feels both hidden (by Manhattan standards) and full of local flavor. 

Fraunces Tavern: Raise a Glass to History 

If your ideal afternoon includes a dose of Revolutionary War history and the city’s best shepherd’s pie, Fraunces Tavern is the place. Touted as New York’s oldest operating bar and restaurant, this colonial tavern once played host to George Washington himself. 

The atmosphere is all old-wood beams and cozy, uneven floors. Pop in for a hearty lunch or grab a pint in the taproom—try their whiskey flight or classic fish and chips. The on-site museum offers a fascinating look at the birth of America. Even non-history buffs will feel the intrigue. 

Museum of American Finance: Dollars, Dreams, and Downtown Drama 

Located right in the heart of Wall Street, this museum makes the story of money fascinating—even for those who don’t check stock tickers for fun. Currencies from every era, glittering gold bars, and awesome interactive exhibits bring to life the ups, downs, and outrageous personalities of America’s financial heart. 

It’s approachable, never dry, and filled with “wait, THAT happened here?!” moments. If you’re touring Wall Street, tack this on for extra insight (and a few mind-blowing facts to share back home). 

 

From the harbor to historic streets, your day near the Statue of Liberty can be as cultural, delicious, and surprising as you make it. Dive deeper into Lower Manhattan’s iconic sites—or get to know the places locals love for their food, stories, and vibrant energy. One ferry ticket is just the start of a New York adventure you’ll never forget! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out how to get to the Statue of Liberty, and see the sights in style. 
 
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New York with Kids: Fun-Filled Adventures for Families

New York City is a playground for all ages, but when you’re visiting with kids, the possibilities multiply. From dinosaur-filled museums and sky-high observatories to thrilling parks and quirky hands-on experiences, every day has the potential to become your family’s best-ever adventure. Whether you want to meet a T-Rex, chase bubbles in Central Park, or ride a speedboat on the Hudson, we know the places that spark big grins and lasting memories. Ready to see the city through your kid’s eyes? Let’s dive in!  Our go-to things to do with kids in New York include:    American Museum of Natural History  Central Park adventures  The Edge  Luna Park on Coney Island  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum  RiseNY  LEGOLAND Discovery Center New Jersey  Madame Tussauds  The Beast Speedboat Ride  American Museum of Natural History: Where Dinosaurs Roam  Step through the doors and you’ll see why families keep coming back to the American Museum of Natural History. Dinosaurs loom around every corner, massive whale models soar overhead, and glittering gems sparkle in darkened rooms. This museum feels worlds away from “just another museum”—it’s more like a living storybook packed with hands-on fun and “ooh, look at that!” moments.  Standout details? We love chasing each other through the giant blue whale room and then making faces with the Easter Island Moai statue. Animal lovers can explore dioramas from the African savannah to the rainforests of South America, while starry-eyed space explorers will find plenty to dream about in the Rose Center for Earth and Space. There are dedicated areas for younger kids, and pop-up exhibits that always surprise and delight. It’s not just about what you see—it’s about what you do. From interactive games to fossil digs, curiosity is encouraged at every turn. Plus, the dino gift shop is irresistibly good for post-visit treats. With so many rooms, you can easily spend a whole day meandering, racing, and letting your imaginations run wild together.  Central Park Adventures: Nature’s Playground in the City  Central Park is more than grass and trees—though there’s plenty of both, ideal for tag, picnics, or just lazing in the sun. This urban oasis offers a little adventure around every corner, from rowboats drifting on the lake to giant rocks made for climbing and play. The Alice in Wonderland statue is a must for fairy-tale fans, and every carousel ride adds a fresh round of giggles.  Kids can go wild at the playgrounds—Heckscher Playground is especially spacious, packed with big slides and water features for splashy summer fun. Don’t miss the Central Park Zoo, where seals and snow leopards are household celebrities. When it’s time for a treat, ice cream carts tempt you all along winding walkways. The energy here is pure happiness. If you want to cover even more ground, renting bikes or joining a guided tour (read on) is a fantastic way to see hidden corners and secret bridges.  Luna Park on Coney Island: Boardwalk Thrills  Take your kids for a memory-making day beside the sea at Luna Park, Coney Island’s classic amusement park. The atmosphere is pure joy: the smell of cotton candy, the flash of fairground lights and the sounds of delighted shrieks as coasters zip past. Start with the legendary Cyclone rollercoaster if your crew’s feeling brave, or try milder rides for the youngest members of the family.  There’s a little something here for everyone: spinning tea cups, arcade games, and whirling carousels for kids of all ages (and grown-ups who refuse to grow up). The park’s food stands offer tasty treats, with Nathan’s Famous hot dogs as a can’t-miss classic, and waterfront seating lets you look out over the Atlantic between bites.  When you need a break from the rides, the boardwalk is perfect for people-watching, shell-hunting, or simply soaking up beachy vibes. In summer, look for free shows and street performers—just add an ice cream cone for the perfect day!  RiseNY: A Flying Tour Through Big City History  Turn history into pure excitement at RiseNY, the city’s flying theater experience. This immersive attraction takes you on a simulated flight over NYC—kids swoop past the Statue of Liberty and zoom over Times Square, all while safely buckled in. The ride is gentle enough for most ages, but with enough dips and whooshes to keep things fun.  Before the flight, interactive exhibits explore New York’s cultural and musical achievements, using hands-on stations and clever set pieces to bring stories to life. It’s learning without boredom and a magical way to frame the city’s story for young imaginations.  After your virtual adventure, you’ll want to hunt down the real versions of those landmarks—which, conveniently, are just a stroll away in Midtown.  LEGOLAND Discovery Center New Jersey: Build, Play, Repeat  Hop over to nearby New Jersey for a few hours at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, where creativity rules and everything is, well, awesome! Perfect for younger kids, this indoor attraction offers everything from hands-on workshops to rides, building zones, and a 4D cinema—all in the spirit of brick-filled fun.  Kids lose themselves in themed areas, making race cars, tackling ninja challenges, or just free-building wild inventions with thousands of bricks. Parents will find plenty of comfy corners for coffee and relaxing, and the gift shop will inspire (or tempt) future master builders. It’s a bright, friendly spot for rainy days or restless little ones—plus easy transport links mean you’ll be back in central Manhattan in no time.  Madame Tussauds: Lights, Camera, Kid-Approved Action  Step into a world where everyone’s ready for a photo op—no autographs required! Madame Tussauds New York takes the classic wax museum to another level, with superstar encounters and interactive zones designed to spark laughter and creativity. Kids can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with superheroes from Marvel, pose with pop stars, take a seat behind the President’s desk in the Oval Office, and even explore movie scenes brought to life.  What makes it special for families? It’s completely hands-on. Kids can don costumes, strike silly poses, and challenge each other to the wildest selfie. The themed sets are colorful, immersive, and perfect for make-believe games. There’s even a new Broadway section for budding performers to take center stage themselves! The museum cleverly sprinkles in surprising sound effects and secret corners—be ready for giggles as you make your way through.  The experience is fun at any speed—zoom through for an hour or take your time soaking up the playful energy. Plus, you’re in the heart of Times Square, so it’s easy to combine your visit with a walk among bright lights, street artists, and family-friendly restaurants nearby.  The Beast Speedboat Ride: NYC’s Wildest Water Adventure  Want to shake up your sightseeing with something exhilarating? Hop aboard The Beast, New York’s speediest boat ride. This isn’t your ordinary cruise—it's a high-octane dash down the Hudson River, complete with wind-in-your-face splashes and non-stop laughs. Kids (and grown-ups) love every second as the bright green boat zips and zigzags at 45 mph, music pumping and the city skyline racing by.  It’s just fast enough to satisfy adventurers, but safe for most school-age kids and up (check age minimums). The highlight? The captain slows down at the Statue of Liberty for epic family photos—just try to keep a straight face after that ride!  The Beast offers a unique vantage point of Manhattan and a fresh breeze on summer days. Everyone steps off grinning ear to ear…and possibly a little soaked (so pack extra layers). It’s as legendary in family stories as anything else you’ll do in New York.    Whether you’re petting polar bears at Central Park Zoo, digging for dino bones at the American Museum of Natural History, or soaring high above it all at The Edge, family adventures in New York City always bring smiles, surprises, and stories to last a lifetime. Pack your walking shoes, charge up those camera batteries, and get ready to explore—the city is one big playground waiting for your crew!  Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to New York in a day, and our ultimate Manhattan v Brooklyn matchup.    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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Curtain Call: Fun Things to Do Near NYC’s Museum of Broadway

You’ve landed tickets to the Museum of Broadway, and the lights of Times Square are calling your name. This isn’t just any ordinary spot—it’s the heart of New York’s theater scene, alive with music, history, and a lot of razzle-dazzle. But what happens when you step back outside, jazz hands still twitching? Midtown Manhattan offers a whole cast of experiences just waiting for their standing ovation. Whether you’re craving celebrity selfies, skyline views, an afternoon in the park, or classic New York eats, you’re perfectly placed for an adventure. Want to plan your ultimate Broadway day out? Here’s what we suggest to keep the magic going!  Our star-studded recommendations near the Museum of Broadway include:  Madame Tussauds New York  Times Square and the TKTS Stairs  Bryant Park  Radio City Music Hall Tour  Top of the Rock Observation Deck  Central Park  Joe’s Pizza  MoMA: The Museum of Modern Art  Butterbeer Bar  Madame Tussauds New York: Star-Studded Selfies Await  Just a quick stroll from the Museum of Broadway, you can step into the shoes of a celebrity—well, at least in your photos. Madame Tussauds is a wax museum like no other, filled with eerily lifelike figures of movie icons, music legends, and yes, Broadway’s brightest stars. Strike a pose with Lin-Manuel Miranda, perform alongside Taylor Swift, or ham it up on a mock set. It’s pure fun for groups and solo travelers alike (and your social feed will thank you). There’s even a 4D Marvel experience for superhero fans. Every room is interactive and energetic, and the gift shop is loaded with playful NYC souvenirs.  Bryant Park: Your Green Escape in Midtown  After all that excitement, you might crave some chill time. Bryant Park is an easy 10-minute walk and delivers a big dose of relaxation—rolling lawns, shady reading corners, and café tables perfect for a coffee break. In summer, the park hosts concerts and outdoor movies; in winter, there’s ice skating and a bustling holiday market. The vibe is always lively yet laid-back, and you’ll find plenty of New Yorkers recharging here between work and play. Bonus: grab a sandwich from one of the food kiosks or, in summer, snag a game of Petanque or ping pong.  Radio City Music Hall Tour: Gilded Glamour, Backstage Secrets  Just a stone’s throw from the museum, the legendary Radio City Music Hall offers behind-the-curtain tours filled with Broadway-style sparkle. Marvel at the iconic Art Deco auditorium, check out secret nooks backstage, and maybe even meet a Rockette. Guides weave you through decades of glitz, dance, and showbiz lore. Even for non-theater fans, the building’s jaw-dropping architecture makes this a crowd-pleaser. Insider tip: Don’t miss the grand lobby’s chandeliers—they’re just as dramatic as anything onstage.  Top of the Rock: See NYC’s Legendary Skyline  After soaking up Broadway’s artistry, head skyward at Top of the Rock—one of the best observation decks in New York. Soaring 70 floors above Midtown, this open-air perch offers panoramic views of the city, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and—on a clear day—the distant Statue of Liberty. Arrive in time for sunset and watch the city lights begin to twinkle: it’s a pure New York magic moment. The vibe is relaxed but awe-inspiring, with plenty of space to snap those perfect skyline selfies.  Joe’s Pizza: A Classic New York Slice  No real New York day out is complete without pizza. Joe’s Pizza, steps from Times Square, is as classic as it gets—thin, piping-hot crust, perfectly tangy sauce, and gooey cheese. Stand at the counter with locals and tourists alike, fold your slice, and savor that first bite. The energy is fast, the staff efficient and cheery, and the late-night crowds often include pre-show performers and post-show fans. It’s the fuel every Broadway explorer needs!  MoMA: World-Class Art, Midtown Cool  Ready to trade the stage for stunning galleries? The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a short subway ride or brisk walk away. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces from van Gogh to Warhol, plus ever-changing exhibitions that capture the pulse of modern creativity. The bright, spacious galleries are a balm for busy city eyes, and the sculpture garden is a sunny retreat on good weather days. Stop for an artsy coffee in the museum’s sleek café before heading back out into Midtown.  Butterbeer Bar: Sip Like a Star (Wizard, That Is)  Need a whimsical intermission between attractions? Just steps from Times Square, the Butterbeer Bar transports you from New York’s theater district to the magical streets of Hogsmeade. Inspired by the world of Harry Potter, this popup is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth and a taste for nostalgia.  Here’s what makes this place stand out: order a creamy Butterbeer (cold, frozen, or hot—all with a luscious butterscotch head) and pose for pics against magical murals and wizarding world memorabilia. The vibe is joyfully geeky—staff happily explain the menu to newbies, and there’s always Potter-themed music humming in the background.  Pair your drink with a chocolate frog or a frothy, wand-themed cupcake. It’s a great spot to rest tired feet, recharge between museums, and refuel before your next show. Kids, teens, and the young at heart will all find their own Instagram moment here.    There you have it—a pitch-perfect day around the Museum of Broadway, packed with showbiz sparkle, foodie finds, art, and unforgettable views. Whether you’re a theater devotee, a casual fan, or just along for the ride, Midtown offers something for every kind of New York explorer. Enjoy the applause!  Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to the perfect 24 hours in Manhattan, or find even more wizarding fun in 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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One day in Midtown Manhattan: my ultimate guide!

Midtown Manhattan is busy, brilliant and slightly overwhelming – especially if it’s your first time in NYC. After testing, tweaking and clock-watching my way through the neighborhood, this is the Midtown day I’d happily repeat. From skyline views and world-class museums to classic diners, park benches and post-theater drinks, here’s how to do Midtown right – and yes, you can absolutely copy this!
Alice Padfield
Alice Padfield

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