South Street Seaport Museum

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 120 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The South Street Seaport Museum is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in maritime history and culture. Located in Lower Manhattan, the museum showcases the history of New York City's bustling port, which was once the largest in the world. Visitors can explore a fleet of historic ships, including the Wavertree, a 19th-century cargo ship, and the Ambrose, a lightship that once guided ships into New York Harbor. The museum also features a variety of exhibits and displays that bring to life the rich history of the port and its role in shaping the city and the country as a whole. In addition, the South Street Seaport Museum hosts a range of events and programs throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, the South Street Seaport Museum is definitely worth a visit.

12 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038 Get Directions





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With over 26,500 works of art and artifacts, the collections of the South Street Seaport Museum Document the rise of New York as a port city, and global metropolis. Along with a maritime reference library of more than 55,000 books, magazines, ship plans and historic records, these rare and special items help the Museum tell the story of Where New York Begins.

Bowne & Co., Stationers and Printing Offices allow visitors to step back in time and experience a recreated 19th Century printing office. With gifts, fine goods and ephemera available at the Stationers, and exhibitions, demonstration, and job printing at the Printing Offices, visitors can step inside and learn about Where New York Begins

The South Street Seaport Museum tells the story of how New York’s great natural harbor gave rise to the great metropolis we know today. From historic ships to district walking tours, gallery studies, and block printing, our education programs inspire kids of all ages to become a part of Where New York Begins.

From Birthdays to Bar-Mitzvahs, Weddings to Wine tastings the South Street Seaport Museum has the perfect venue for your next event. Step back in time with these truly memorable settings you and your guests will not soon forget

Step aboard the historic schooner Pioneer for an experience like you've never had before. Set sail for the Statue of Liberty and see New York City from a whole new perspective. Grab a halyard to help raise a sail, bring a bottle of wine to celebrate the sights, or just sit back feel the wind in your hair as you truly experience Where New York Begins.

Visit the South Street Seaport Museum and experience New York History like never before, see the city from a whole new perspecitve, Step inside and become a part of Where New York Begins. Visit is at seaportmuseum.org to learn more and purchase tickets.

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South Street Seaport Museum News

South Street Seaport Museum And Bowne & Co. to Present Free Fresh Prints Open House

Join the South Street Seaport Museum's Bowne & Co. for their monthly Fresh Prints open house.

South Street Seaport Museum to Present Sinister Secrets Of The Seaport Walking Tours in May

Join the South Street Seaport Museum for SINISTER SECRETS OF THE SEAPORT, a thrilling 90-minute walking tour revealing the darker past of Lower Manhattan. Learn more and see how to take part!

South Street Seaport Museum And Bowne & Co. to Host Print Your Own Stationery Workshop

Join the South Street Seaport Museum's Print Your Own Stationery workshop for a unique hands-on experience.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Free Events On Wavertree

Join South Street Seaport Museum and Lenora Lee Dance for Convergent Waves: NYC, an immersive multimedia free dance event abroad the 1885 tall ship Wavertree!

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Free Program Exploring Endangered Languages In New York

Join the South Street Seaport Museum and author Ross Perlin on April 10, 2024, for a free program exploring the linguistic diversity of New York City and the fight to preserve endangered mother tongues, as detailed in his new book LANGUAGE CITY.

South Street Seaport Museum to Present Free Ecological Exploration Activity in April

Join the South Street Seaport Museum this April and learn about New York City's natural ecosystems!

South Street Seaport Museum to Present Grain De Sail: A Taste Of Modern Sail Freight

Join the South Street Seaport Museum for GRAIN DE SAIL: A TASTE OF MODERN SAIL FREIGHT on April 6 and 7, 2024.

South Street Seaport Museum to Present Mother's Day Offerings

Celebrate Mother's Day at South Street Seaport Museum with special offerings. Create a unique Mother's Day card using 19th-century printing equipment at Bowne & Co. Free and open to all.

Meet the Cast of PATRIOTS, Beginning Previews Tonight on Broadway

The Almeida Theatre production of Patriots officially begins previews on Broadway tonight, April 1. Meet the cast of Patriots here!

South Street Seaport Museum to Present Free Sing-Alongs Sea Chanteys And Maritime Music in April

Join the South Street Seaport Museum's final hybrid Sea Chanteys and Maritime Music program in April. Enjoy traditional maritime work songs and ballads in-person or virtually before it moves to in-person only on the tall ship Wavertree.

South Street Seaport Museum's SEAPORT DISCOVERY to Conclude in April

Join the final days of the South Street Seaport Museum's exhibit, SEAPORT DISCOVERY: EXPLORING OUR WATERS WITH ERIC CARLE, ending on April 14, 2024.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Free Spring Flower Scavenger Hunt

Join the South Street Seaport Museum's Spring Flower Scavenger Hunt aboard the 1885 tall ship Wavertree. Participants of all ages are challenged to find flower illustrations from countries the ship visited during its 24-year sailing career.

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Free Book Club Event For March

Join the South Street Seaport Museum's free Book Club event on March 25, 2024, featuring The Mad Girls of New York: A Nellie Bly Novel by Maya Rodale.

South Street Seaport Museum to Present Sinister Secrets Of The Seaport Walking Tours This Spring

Join the South Street Seaport Museum for SINISTER SECRETS OF THE SEAPORT, a 90-minute walking tour unveiling the darker past of the South Street Seaport Historic District and Lower Manhattan.

South Street Seaport Museum And Bowne & Co. to Launch Free Fresh Prints Open House

Experience 19th-century style letterpress printing at the South Street Seaport Museum's Fresh Prints open house. Learn and get hands-on with Bowne & Co.'s historic printing presses and graphic arts collection. Free and open to all ages 12 and up.


South Street Seaport Museum Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to South Street Seaport Museum

The closest subway stops to the South Street Seaport Museum at 12 Fulton St in New York City are:

1. Fulton Street Station (served by the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, J, and Z trains): This station is just a short walk away from the museum. Exit the station and head east on Fulton Street towards South Street. The museum will be on your left.

2. Wall Street Station (served by the 2, 3, 4, 5, J, and Z trains): This station is also within walking distance of the South Street Seaport Museum. From the station, walk southeast on Wall Street, then turn right onto South Street. The museum will be on your right.

While you're in the area, I recommend exploring the historic South Street Seaport district. This vibrant neighborhood offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit the shops and boutiques, and enjoy waterfront dining with stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River.

For subway updates and service changes, you can visit the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/. This website provides real-time updates on subway schedules, service disruptions, and other important information to help you navigate the city's subway system efficiently.

Enjoy your visit to the South Street Seaport Museum and have a fantastic time exploring this historic part of New York City!


What's the best way to get to South Street Seaport Museum by bus?

The closest bus stops to the South Street Seaport Museum at 12 Fulton St in New York City are:

1. Fulton St/Broad St: served by buses M15, M15-SBS, M20, and M55. For the most up-to-date bus schedules and updates, you can visit the [MTA website](http://www.mta.info/).

2. Water St/Fulton St: served by buses M15, M15-SBS, M20, and M55. Check the [MTA website](http://www.mta.info/) for the latest bus information.

Please note that bus routes and schedules are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at the South Street Seaport Museum!


How much time should I plan to spend at South Street Seaport Museum?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the South Street Seaport Museum in New York City can vary depending on your level of interest in maritime history and exploration. On average, visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum and its exhibits.

If you're a history buff or have a deep fascination with ships and seafaring, you might find yourself wanting to spend more time immersing yourself in the museum's extensive collection. In this case, you could easily spend half a day exploring the various exhibits, participating in interactive activities, and enjoying the stunning views of the East River.

However, if you're on a tight schedule or have limited interest in maritime history, a shorter visit of 1 to 2 hours can still provide you with a worthwhile experience. You'll have the opportunity to learn about New York City's rich maritime heritage, explore historic ships, and admire the beautifully restored buildings of the seaport.

Ultimately, the length of your visit to the South Street Seaport Museum is up to you and your personal preferences. Take your time to soak in the history and atmosphere, and don't forget to check their website for any special events or temporary exhibits that might enhance your experience.


Can I bring food and drinks into South Street Seaport Museum?

The South Street Seaport Museum in New York City does not have its own food and drink policy, as it is primarily a museum and historic site. However, there are several dining options available in the surrounding area. You can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance of the museum, offering a range of cuisines and dining experiences. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Just make sure to check the individual establishment's policies regarding food and drink, as they may have their own rules and regulations. Enjoy exploring the museum and indulging in the culinary delights of the South Street Seaport neighborhood!


Does South Street Seaport Museum offer luggage storage?

The South Street Seaport Museum in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility. However, there are several options available nearby where you can store your luggage while you explore the museum and the surrounding area.

One convenient option is to use a luggage storage service. There are several companies in New York City that offer secure luggage storage facilities, often located near popular tourist attractions. These services typically charge a small fee per bag and provide a safe and convenient way to store your belongings.

Another option is to check with your hotel or accommodation. Many hotels offer luggage storage for their guests, even after check-out. If you are staying in the area, it's worth checking with your hotel to see if they can accommodate your luggage storage needs.

Lastly, some train stations and airports in New York City also offer luggage storage services. If you are arriving or departing from one of these locations, it may be possible to store your luggage there for a fee.

It's always a good idea to plan ahead and research your options for luggage storage before visiting any attractions or museums in New York City. This will ensure that you can enjoy your visit without the burden of carrying around your bags.


Is South Street Seaport Museum a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the South Street Seaport Museum in New York City is a great destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While English is the primary language used in the museum, there are various exhibits and displays that can be enjoyed regardless of language proficiency.

The museum showcases the rich maritime history of New York City and offers a unique glimpse into the city's seafaring past. Visitors can explore historic ships, including the 1885 tall ship Wavertree, and learn about the city's role as a major port.

Additionally, the museum offers guided tours, which are available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, and German. These tours provide a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits and the history behind them.

Even if you don't understand English fluently, you can still appreciate the museum's artifacts, interactive displays, and stunning views of the waterfront. The South Street Seaport Museum is a cultural gem that offers a fascinating experience for visitors of all backgrounds.


What ages are appropriate for South Street Seaport Museum?

The South Street Seaport Museum in New York City is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages. While there is no specific age range recommendation, the museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

For families with young children, the museum has interactive displays, hands-on activities, and even a children's play area. Kids can learn about the history of New York City's maritime heritage through engaging exhibits and explore historic ships docked at the seaport.

Adults and older children will appreciate the museum's extensive collection of maritime artifacts, including vintage photographs, ship models, and navigational instruments. There are also informative guided tours available, providing deeper insights into the seaport's history and significance.

Overall, the South Street Seaport Museum offers something for everyone, regardless of age. It's a great place to learn, explore, and immerse yourself in the rich maritime history of New York City.


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