The Dutch West India Company founded an outpost what now is the Seaport District in the 1600s, making the harbor area one of the most populated neighborhoods in Manhattan at the time. It’s home to some of Manhattan’s oldest architecture. The Seaport has recently started bouncing back after being hit hard by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. You can learn about maritime history at the Seaport Museum, find fresh eats at the Fulton Stall Market or have a cocktail overlooking the East River.
Fulton Stall Market
When the market is closed, you might miss its obscure white door, set in a historic building. The market is open daily with more than 100 farmers and small-batch specialty food producers selling products from the New York region.
Fulton Stall Market, 91 South St. New York, N.Y. 10038
R17
A chic speakeasy-inspired rooftop lounge atop Seaport’s Pier 17, the venue has views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. Seafood is a specialty, as well as riffs on classic cocktails like the Nomikai Sour, Pamplemousse Spritz and F.Dirty.R, a martini.
R17, 89 South St. New York, N.Y. 10038
The Hideaway
At this charming corner pub, the owners are right behind the bar. Carnitas tacos and fried chicken and biscuits are on the menu, but jump on the Maryland blue crabs when they are in season.
The Hideaway, 22 Peck Slip New York, N.Y. 10038
South Street Seaport Museum
The museum houses exhibits that tell the story of the rise of New York as a port city, including ship models built during the 18th century, carvings on whale teeth and marine ivory made by 19th-century whalers while at sea, not to mention old instruments used by carpenters, workmen, riggers and sailmakers on the South Street waterfront.
South Street Seaport Museum, 12 Fulton St. New York, N.Y. 10038
Gild Hall
The 130-room Gild Hall hotel is tucked away on the narrow, cobblestone-paved Gold Street. You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to imbibe at the upper level La Soffitta wine bar. The wine list includes 100 bottles of white, red and sparkling Italian wines. The decor features glowing wine bottles tucked behind cages housing the owner’s personal collection.