South Street Seaport Museum

The museum traces how New York grew into a global hub, using three floors of exhibits to detail the city's role in maritime trade and tourism. Beyond the historic seaport buildings and the Bowne & Co. printing office, the experience extends to the water. Visitors can step onto historic vessels moored at the pier, or catch a ride on New York's last surviving wooden tugboat, run by volunteers. To connect the historic port images on display with the modern harbor, pair your visit with a ferry ride to or from nearby Pier 11.