South Street Seaport is located what used to be known as the busiest port in America. It is one of the most popular historical neighborhoods in New York City that is known for some of the oldest buildings around, cobblestone streets, the maritime museum that was founded in 1967, shopping centers, restaurants and a view of the Brooklyn Bridge. Historical sailing vessels are docked at the pier where travelers and visitors can relive the marine pastime of the 18th century.
Seaport consists of around seven blocks of historical neighborhoods intersected by F.D.R Drive. For anyone visiting New York City South Street Seaport is a must see for anyone that is interested in maritime history, beautiful views and fine dining.
History of South Street Seaport
A city within a city is what South Street Seaport has become. Back in the 1850’s Seaport played one of the most important roles in the history of New York as the wealthiest commercial districts in the city. Steamships needed wider waters to navigate so the Hudson River then became the new port of New York for this reason. After the US Civil War, Seaport fell into a declination when the Hudson River darkened East River with the large vessels. Restoration of the area began to take place around the 1960’s before the Seaport Museum was founded.
Redevelopment of the museum went underway in 1982 to turn it into one of the biggest tourist attractions with shopping areas, renovation of historical buildings and a newly structured Pier 17. The Howard Hughes Corporation now operates the Seaport.
Attractions
One of the main attractions is the South Street Seaport Museum. Founded by Peter and Norma Stanford in 1967 the focus was to create a conservation of an educational site with exhibits of the historical environment during South Street Seaport’s heyday from 1820-1860.
For more than 27 years now Pier 17 has held many world class events and forms of entertainment for New Yorker’s and many visitors. The Pier 17 stage has been home to many holiday events, seasonal farmer’s markets and a community center for all.
Shopping malls, restaurants, concerts, cruises and other events take place all year round on the Seaport. There are many main attractions that can be found on the streets of the Seaport for the whole family to enjoy such as Titanic Park, Clipper City, Pier 15, the recreational pier, Imagination Playground and the Beekman Beer Garden.
Visiting South Street Seaport
While visiting South Street Seaport you will be in view of the 19th century ships that grace the harbor such as the Peking, Ambrose, Wavertree and the W.O Decker vessels. Within reach of New York’s financial district, you can reach Seaport by bus, subway or taxi from other locations in New York City. Seaport is open all year round with the museum having seasonal hours. Pier 17 has many shops, restaurants and restored historical buildings that can be toured. Overlooking the boardwalk is a clear view of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River.
Planning a trip to the Big Apple? Visit NewYorkJourney.com for a wealth of information to navigate the NYC’s many hotels and attractions. Book your hotel room, Broadway show tickets and plan your shopping excursion while you prepare to experience the city that never sleeps.
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