Tourists and New Yorkers alike flock to the Financial District for its wealth of iconic and historic sites, shops, and museums. The area is home to the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall National Memorial, the World Trade Center Site, Wall Street Bull, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Here are ten things that you can’t miss when visiting this fascinating neighborhood.
The New York Stock Exchange
Buy and sell stocks and bonds, commodities and futures at the world’s oldest stock exchange. Opened in 1817, the NYSE remains the largest stock exchange in all of the United States.
Tour Federal Hall National Memorial
Federal Hall National Memorial stands as a symbol of our country’s democracy and was once home to the first executive office of our country: George Washington, U.S. President.
Get your picture taken in front of the Wall Street Bull
Commonly referred to as “Charging Bull,” this bronze sculpture by Arturo Di Modica is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City and has been featured in countless movies.
Shop in trendy boutique stores
The shopping scene on Broadway between Exchange Place and Maiden Lane is one of the most popular in New York City. There are over a dozen boutiques clustered together offering everything from high-end jewelry to designer clothing to chocolate.
Take a stroll through Battery Park
Battery Park is home to Castle Clinton, the former immigration hub for arrivals coming into the United States via ocean-going vessels (including Ellis Island). It also hosts free concerts and events throughout the season from April-October.
See the Statue of Liberty
Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and learn about its history from a park ranger. The statue has stood in New York Harbor since 1886, welcoming immigrants arriving from throughout the world. In addition to a breathtaking view from its pedestal, visitors can take an elevator to visit her crown and museum.
Visit the Empire State Building
The world’s most famous skyrising building, it is a symbol of New York City and one of the city’s most popular attractions. Although you may have seen it in countless films, like Top Gun and The Avengers, to learn its history it’s worth visiting the observation deck.
Take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry
Enjoy a great view of lower Manhattan on the free Staten Island Ferry. The ferry takes you from Whitehall Street, just across the river from Ground Zero, to the St. George Terminal, home to many of Staten Island’s historical sites and landmarks. As the ferry passes, you can see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in New Jersey which have welcomed millions of immigrants into New York City and the United States.
Marvel at the design of the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge was completed in 1883 and is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, spanning 842 feet. Although you can cross it for free, visitors are encouraged to ride a double-decker bus called the “Brooklyn Bridge Tours” which runs 365 days a year.
Shop at Macy’s and Bloomingdales
Macy’s on East 34th Street is one of the most famous department stores in New York City. Its flagship store is the “treasure trove” of New York City, featuring a high-end “Macy’s atrium.” One of its most popular stores is also located in the heart of the Financial District.
Conclusion
There are many things to do in New York City, and you’re going to want to take advantage of all that it has to offer. There’s so much that the city has to offer, from the Statue of Liberty to the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas Tree. The list could be endless because there is so much you can see and do.