When friends come to the city to visit, I am often asked for recommendations on things to do or places to visit. Here are a few suggestions and tips for The Financial District.
The Alliance for Downtown NY is probably the best resource for all things FiDi. Their website lists everything from museums to restaurants.
Battery Park is filled with waterfront activities and the park itself has had recent renovations and restoration of pier areas. For some history, visit Castle Clinton, catch the ferry to the Statue of Liberty or wander through the Irish Hunger Memorial. Take in the views over dinner at Gigino's at Wagner Park, check out the scene at Danny Meyer's North End Grill, get your seafood fix at Harborhouse at Pier A or head to the rooftop at The Conrad to try their popsicle cocktails.
If you are looking for a steakhouse, there are many options to choose from. There is the historic, Delmonico's. Or, you can dine in a bank vault at Bobby Van's. And we cannot leave out Harry's at Hanover Square for its culinary and literary fame.
There are also a great number of museums to visit. Fraunces Tavern, Anne Frank Center, Museum of American Finance, The Skyscraper Museum and The South Street Seaport Museum. When visiting The National September 11th Memorial and Museum, you may also want to be sure to visit the observatory at One World Trade Center.
For a more casual scene, head on over to Stone Street for a great variety of restaurants with the street closed to the public and plenty of seasonal outdoor seating. A great spot for breakfast, a light lunch or pastries is The Financier. Beckett's and The Stone Street Tavern are classic pub fare. And the calories are definite worth it at Adrienne's Pizza Bar.
The South Street Seaport is also loaded with things to do. There are shops and restaurants along the cobblestone streets. You can also depart for a boat tour of the harbor. The waterfront park stretching along the pier has had recent renovations and additions. One of my favorite places is Cowgirl Seahorse for a good margarita and some Mexican food.