Your guide to the Financial District, NYC’s oldest new downtown neighborhood

New York City is known as the financial capital of the world, and the Financial District (FiDi) is its epicenter. The area is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the city, including Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. But there’s more to the Financial District than just finance. In recent years, the area has transformed into a vibrant residential neighborhood with a burgeoning food scene and a rich cultural history. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to see and do in the Financial District.

Getting There

The Financial District is located at the southernmost tip of Manhattan, bordered by the East River and the Hudson River. The easiest way to get there is by subway. The 2, 3, 4, 5, J, and Z trains all stop at various stations in the area. If you’re coming from Brooklyn or Queens, you can take the A or C trains to Fulton Street, which is in the heart of the Financial District.

Things to See and Do

1. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: The iconic Statue of Liberty is located just a short ferry ride away from the Financial District. You can take a ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island, where you can get up close and personal with Lady Liberty. You can also visit Ellis Island, which was the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
2. The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum: The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a must-visit for anyone coming to the Financial District. The museum is located on the site of the former World Trade Center, which was destroyed in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The museum tells the story of the attacks and the aftermath, and the memorial features two reflecting pools that are inscribed with the names of the victims.
3. Wall Street: The most famous street in the Financial District is Wall Street, which is home to the New York Stock Exchange and the Charging Bull sculpture. You can take a tour of the stock exchange or simply stroll down the street and take in the sights.
4. South Street Seaport: The South Street Seaport is a historic district that features a museum, restaurants, and shops. The area was once a bustling port for ships carrying goods from around the world.
5. The Skyscrapers: The Financial District is home to some of the tallest buildings in the world, including One World Trade Center, which stands at 1,776 feet tall. Other notable buildings include the Woolworth Building, the Equitable Building, and the Chrysler Building.

Food and Drink

The Financial District has experienced a foodie revolution in recent years, with new restaurants and bars opening up all the time. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Dead Rabbit: This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative drinks and cozy atmosphere.
2. Stone Street: This pedestrian-only street is lined with bars and restaurants and is a popular spot for after-work drinks.
3. Schilling: This Austrian-inspired restaurant is known for its schnitzel and beer.
4. Eataly: This Italian marketplace and restaurant is a foodie’s paradise. You can shop for Italian groceries and then sit down for a meal at one of the many restaurants.
5. Blacktail: This cocktail bar is inspired by Prohibition-era Havana and features a menu of rum-based drinks.

Conclusion

The Financial District may be New York City’s oldest neighborhood, but it’s also one of its newest. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a burgeoning food scene, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant downtown area. Whether you’re a finance buff or a