The Financial District and Wall Street in Manhattan offer a wealth of captivating splendor and exciting experiences for visitors. Here you can explore the bustling New York markets, take in the stunning views, seek out the historical sights, and get a first-hand look at the heart of the city. Whether you’re interested in the stock markets and big business, culture and history, or just soaking up the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s most famous neighborhoods, NYC’s Financial District and Wall Street short visit or a day out, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of the must-see spots in and around the Financial District and Wall Street.
The Iconic Wall Street Bull
One of the most iconic symbols of New York City, the Wall Street Bull sculpture stands at the heart of the Financial District. Located on Broadway between Morris Street and Exchange Place, the bronze structures is a replica of a bull sculpture, designed by artist Arturo Di Modica to represent the ‘strength and power of the American people’, and stands proud after being made in 1989. The Bull is one of the most photographed sites in the area and an iconic symbol of Wall Street, and visitors can take a unique picture for their own memories with the Bull as a backdrop too.
New York Stock Exchange
Often nicknamed the ‘Big Board’ or ‘NYSE’, the New York Stock Exchange is the largest stock exchange in the USA, and a must-see while visiting this area of Manhattan. Operating since 1792, the exchange is a great place to witness the thrills and spills of the stock market up close. Visitors can tour the inside of the headquarters, learning about the history and taking pictures of the exchange floor, watching traders and investors buy and deal stocks each day.
Fraunces Tavern
If you’re a fan of history, then the Fraunces Tavern, located nearby in the Battery area, is a must-see. This is one of the oldest buildings in Manhattan and a historical landmark of New York, dating back to 1719. On the 6th of December 1783, General George Washington made an emotional farewell to his officers at the Tavern, in what is considered to be the first private farewell before his public farewell address in March of the following year.
The Building features a museum of the original rooms that are open to the public, as well as a restaurant. The building is so old, it made an appearance in the Charlie Chaplin film The Pilgrim in 1923.
A tour of the Statue of Liberty
Another great visit while in the general area is a trip to the iconic Statue of Liberty, located in a small area of the harbor-front known as Liberty Island. Many visitor enjoy the ferry rides that circle the harbor, with the Statue of Liberty always visible in the foreground. You may also choose to take a boat directly to the Statue, and take the lift to the top of the Statue or explore the museum to learn more about the interesting history.
Charging Bull
Another classic statue that is sure to capture the attention of visitors. The Charging Bull, also known as the Wall Street Bull, is a bronze sculpture located near the New York Stock Exchange. The sculpture is 3.2 meters in height and 4.2 meters in length and weighs 3.2 tons. It was created in 1989 as a symbol of strength and determination and has since become one of the most photographed symbols in the city.
Restaurants and bars
Heading to the nearby area of the South Street Seaport gives you plenty of opportunities to explore more of the Financial District’s culture. With the full range of eateries, from fast food to upscale restaurants, the area has something for everyone’s food preferences. Beyond food, South Street Seaport also has plenty to do in the many shops, theaters, and art galleries, as well as pubs, taverns, and bars, so if you’re looking to kick back and have a beer or two after a long day of sightseeing, this is definitely the place.
Federal Hall
The Federal Hall National Memorial is a great place to visit and learn more about the history of the Financial District. The historic building was originally the site of the first Congress, the Supreme Court, and the Executive Branch, and is home to the large bronze sculpture of George Washington, who was inaugurated as the country’s first president on the steps of the Hall in 1789. The building has now been restored to its original condition, and free public tours are available.
Trinity Church
Trinity Church is located at the crossroads of Wall Street and Broadway, serving as a symbol of strength and reassurance for centuries. This Gothic-style church was built in 1697 and has since become a symbol of the city, with many famous figures buried in its cemeteries and memorials. Apart from its impressive features, the Church also houses a beautiful chapel, perfect for a peaceful and memorial visit.
Battery Park
The Battery Park is 25 acres of lush green refuge that sit at the very southern tip of Manhattan. A walk down this path offers amazing views of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and the World Trade Center. The Park also houses a number of monuments and sculptures, and the occasional food cart.
Fulton Center
Finally, the Fulton Center is one of the newest additions to the Financial District, built over and around several preexisting subway lines. The Center offers an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities, but most visitors come here for the incredible neon light walk-through. The free stop includes a light-up glass escalator and impressive panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
The Financial District and Wall Street offer a range of captivating sights and experiences, from the iconic Wall Street Bull, the Stock Exchange and Trinity Church, to the more contemporary attractions of the South Street Seaport, Battery Park and the Fulton Center. Whether it’s a few hours or an entire day, these must-see spots are sure to have something for everyone, both fascinating and enlightening.
