The Tip of Southern Manhattan

On the southernmost tip of Manhattan, the two great waterways that define the island meet to provide some of the most breathtaking natural vistas in the city. This wasn’t always the case, of course: before the advent of air freight, the two rivers were busy, working channels devoted to the movement of goods and equipment, and picturesque views at the island’s end were few and far between. But in recent years, thanks to significantly diminished commercial traffic, the Hudson and the East Rivers have become the cleanest they’ve been in decades, and developers have taken notice. New condos in the Financial District and an array of parks and public amenities have sprung up along the southern edge of the island, signaling an exciting new chapter for the place where these storied rivers merge.

The East River Esplanade, a large, two-mile stretch of waterfront space, is in the midst of a comprehensive transformation that is already revitalizing the area. New winding jogging, skating, and bike paths offer myriad recreational opportunities, and will eventually connect to the Manhattan Greenway for those who prefer longer excursions. In addition to general park enhancements along the esplanade, the piers in the area have undergone significant renovations, turning them into ideal spots for strolling and watching boats zip along on a sunny day.

The South Street Seaport has been a famous Manhattan attraction for some time, and recent enhancements have seen the famed area continue to grow as a destination for locals and visitors alike. Shopping highlights include the Howard Hughes Corporation’s concept store, Seaport Studio, a combination fashion boutique (in collaboration with fashion trade publication WWD), hip maker-space, coffee bar, and art gallery. The Seaport also continues to host an array of summer events including the successful four-week Seaport Film and Food Festival that was launched in 2014. Pier 15 in South Street Seaport has also been completely refurbished, and is now a two-floor public park with two separate observation decks that offer stunning views of East River and beyond.

Terrific waterfront dining options are now a part of the Seaport scene, including Watermark Bar, Industry Kitchen, and ACQUA at Peck Slip.

In addition to being a destination in its own right, Lower Manhattan is a great jumping-off point for those looking for an easy escape from the city . Those seeking sun and sand can take a quick ferry ride to nearby beaches. Sandy Hook and Fort Tilden beaches are just a short ride away, and feel almost like secret summer hideaways despite their close proximity to the city.

Lining the other coastline is historic Battery Park, the 17th-century promenade first established by Dutch settlers where, a century later, the very last British troops evacuated at the end of the Revolutionary War. Battery Park’s expansive views of the Hudson and the Statue of Liberty are unrivaled. The waterfront park is also an ideal place for relaxing and strolling through artfully designed flower gardens and past transcendent water fountains. Young Battery Park residents can enjoy Storytime at the Battery on Tuesday and Thursday mornings throughout the summer, and grownups can enjoy workshops at the Battery Urban Farm on topics from natural dyes to beehives and urban gardening. Free theatre performances by New York Classical Theatre are also offered in Battery Park in late July and early August each year.

The southern tip of Manhattan is a gem for residents of Lower Manhattan and for visitors seeking a unique urban experience. Thanks the tip’s narrow shape, just a short walk from the East River coastline to the Hudson’s provides incredible views in both directions, and showcases the elegant interactions that are possible between both manmade and natural wonders.