Finally, after two days of jaunts in the Upper West Side and around midtown, today, head downtown for some iconic New York experiences.

As with all the other New York neighborhoods, there are plenty of things to do downtown. Start your day at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. This historic institution honors the victims of 9/11 and examines its continued global significance. Afterward, see the new World Trade Center. The observation deck just opened up last summer and you can see miles from the top.

The iconic view of downtown Manhattan can be scenes from the Staten Island ferry. Take it from South Ferry Terminal, the thirty-minute ride is free and offers a splendid view of Manhattan. The ferry ride also offers a great view of Brooklyn and the Statute of Liberty.


After your return from Staten Island, stroll wall street. Jostle the other tourists for a picture with the Bull statute, and make sure to walk by the New York Stock Exchange. By now, you’ve probably had enough of the business scene downtown. For something different head to Soho to get a taste of beautiful facades of classic artist lofts, not to mention all the shopping you can handle.

An afternoon worth of shopping, rest your legs at a cafe in the West Village. There’s no better place for food and drinks than the Village. Local favorite restaurants include the Spotted Pig and Buvette.