Financial District Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and tips for safety in Financial District, Manhattan, New York.


Introduction to Financial District

Welcome to the Financial District! This bustling neighborhood in lower Manhattan is the heart of America’s financial industry and home to some of the city’s oldest and most iconic buildings. It’s a busy neighborhood, filled with tourists, businesspeople, and locals alike. But the area is not just about banking and finance, it also offers a rich history, scenic views, and mouth-watering cuisine. So, let’s dive into the best things to do in the Financial District.

List of Places to Visit in Financial District

The Financial District is brimming with historical and cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious food spots. Here’s a list of places to visit that you don’t want to miss.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Financial District has a rich cultural heritage that extends through the centuries. From museums to monuments, here are some of the most remarkable cultural attractions you can visit.

  • The National September 11 Memorial & Museum: This museum honors the more than 2,700 victims who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. It is a somber and emotional reminder of the tragic events that took place on that fateful day.

  • The Museum of American Finance: This museum showcases the history of American finance, including information on the stock market, banking, and investing.

  • Fraunces Tavern Museum: This historical museum is located in a building that dates back to 1719. It’s the perfect place to learn about the American Revolutionary War and the important role that the building played in American history.

  • Wall Street: This is the financial center of America, and it’s home to iconic buildings like the New York Stock Exchange and the Federal Reserve Bank.

Natural Attractions of Financial District: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Although the Financial District is primarily known for its historical and financial importance, it offers some of the stunning outdoor spaces in New York City. From parks to waterfront nature trails, there’s plenty for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

  • Battery Park: This park is located at the tip of Manhattan Island, and it’s one of the most popular green spaces in the city. It features several memorials, gardens, and stunning views of the New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

  • Stone Street: This pedestrian-only street is known for its historic architecture, outdoor dining, and lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a drink or a bite to eat while enjoying the sunshine.

  • Water Street: This waterfront trail offers panoramic views of the East River and the Brooklyn skyline. It’s ideal for biking, jogging, or simply taking a stroll along the shore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Financial District

The Financial District may not be known for its hiking and biking routes, but there are plenty of outdoor trails nearby. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Hudson River Park: This park is located on the west side of Manhattan Island, and it offers several miles of biking and walking trails.

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park: This waterfront park is located just across the East River from the Financial District, and it offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It has great bike routes.

Best Things to Do in Financial District: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or you’re looking for something new to do, Financial District has plenty of fun and exciting activities to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: This tour is the perfect way to see all the sights in the Financial District. It’s a convenient and affordable way to explore the area without breaking the bank.

  • The Elevated Acre: This urban park in the middle of the Financial District is an oasis of greenery in the concrete jungle. It’s a great place to relax, read a book or just take a break from the busy streets.

  • Brookfield Place: This indoor-outdoor shopping center offers plenty of high-end shops and restaurants for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Financial District

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in the Financial District:

Day Activity
1 National September 11 Memorial & Museum
2 The Museum of American Finance
3 Fraunces Tavern Museum
4 Battery Park
5 Brooklyn Bridge Park
6 Hudson River Park
7 The Elevated Acre

Food and Drink Scene of Financial District

The Financial District has a lot to offer when it comes to food and drink. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • New York-style pizza: There’s nothing quite like a slice of authentic New York-style pizza, and Financial District has plenty of options.

  • Delmonico’s steak: This iconic steakhouse is a must-visit for steak lovers. It’s been around since 1837 and is still serving some of the best cuts of steak in the city.

  • Bagels and lox: The Financial District is home to several fantastic bagel shops, serving up fresh, tasty, and classic New York bagels with cream cheese and lox.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: New York is home to some of the best craft breweries in the country, and the Financial District is no exception. Check out the Clinton Hall Beer Garden for a pint or two.

  • Coffee and Tea: Caffeine lovers won’t be disappointed with the options in the Financial District. One of the most popular spots is Blue Spoon Coffee Co.

Where to Stay in Financial District

There are plenty of great places to stay in the Financial District. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Beekman: This historic hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with a vintage feel. It’s centrally located and within walking distance of most major attractions.

  • Club Quarters World Trade Center: This hotel is perfect for travelers on a budget. It offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, and it’s located just steps away from the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

  • Q&A Residential Hotel: If you’re looking for a more homey atmosphere, the Q&A Residential Hotel offers spacious and fully furnished apartments with all the amenities you need.

What to Buy in Financial District: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home? Here are some suggestions:

  • Financial District Skyline Postcard: The city skyline is undoubtedly one of the most iconic sights in New York, and you’ll find plenty of postcards featuring the Financial District’s unique architecture.

  • Wall Street Bull Statue Souvenir: The Charging Bull statue is one of the most famous landmarks in the Financial District, and there are plenty of miniature versions you can buy as souvenirs.

  • New York Cheesecake: If there’s one dessert that screams “New York,” it’s cheesecake. The Financial District has several fantastic bakeries where you can buy a slice or a whole cake to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Financial District

The Financial District is a melting pot of cultures, and as such, it has its own set of customs and traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in the Financial District, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes to get the most out of your visit.

  • Tip Waitstaff: Tipping is a pretty standard practice in the United States. It is customary to tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the bill.

Best Time to Visit Financial District

The Financial District is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the fall and spring months when the weather is mild, and the crowds are not as large.

Do’s and Don’ts of Financial District

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the Financial District:

Do:

  • Explore the Skyline: The Financial District is home to some of the most iconic buildings in New York, so make sure to take the time to admire the skyline.

  • Visit the 9/11 Memorial: This moving tribute is a must-visit for all visitors to the Financial District.

Don’t:

  • Litter: New York has strict littering laws, so make sure to dispose of any trash in a proper manner.

  • Block Sidewalks: The sidewalks in the Financial District can get crowded, so make sure to keep moving and not block the path of others.

Safety and Health

Safety in Financial District

The Financial District is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to take a few precautions to keep yourself safe.

  • Stay Alert: Like any major city, the Financial District can be busy and hectic. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Financial District

The Financial District has plenty of healthcare options, including clinics, urgent care centers, and hospitals. If you need medical attention, don’t hesitate to seek it out.

Getting to Financial District: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Financial District is easily accessible via several modes of transportation.

  • Airports Near Financial District: John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport are the most convenient airports for visiting the Financial District.

  • Bus Stations Near Financial District: The Port Authority Bus Terminal is the closest bus station to the Financial District and is well connected to public transit.

  • Other Options: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available and offer a convenient and affordable way to travel around the city.

How to Get Around in Financial District

The Financial District is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, and most of the major attractions can be easily reached on foot. You can also rent a bike, take a taxi, or use the subway to get around.

Where to Go Next from Financial District: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Financial District is just the beginning of what New York has to offer. Here are some places you might want to consider visiting next:

  • Downtown Brooklyn: This neighborhood is just across the East River from the Financial District and is home to several great restaurants and unique shops.

  • The High Line: This elevated park on Manhattan’s west side is a fantastic place to take a scenic walk, relax, and take in the sights and sounds of the city.

  • Central Park: No trip to New York would be complete without a visit to this iconic park. It offers plenty of walking trails, bike paths, and stunning views of the city.

Conclusion

The Financial District is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most iconic sites in New York City. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventures, this neighborhood has something for you. So, book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to explore this vibrant and exciting part of the city!

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge City Hall Park City Hall Park George Washington overlooks the New York Stock Exchange George Washington overlooks the New York Stock Exchange The South Tower fountain, National September 11 Memorial The South Tower fountain, National September 11 Memorial African Burial Ground National Monument African Burial Ground National Monument Statue of Liberty Statue of Liberty The Great Hall on Ellis Island The Great Hall on Ellis Island Governors Island Governors Island Battery Park City, with older classic buildings on West Street to the right of the photo Battery Park City, with older classic buildings on West Street to the right of the photo