At a Glance
Time Needed: 120 min.
Ages: All
Allows Food/Drink: No
Luggage Storage: No
12 Fulton St, New York, NY 10038 Get Directions
South Street Seaport Museum Videos
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
Join the South Street Seaport Museum for a special evening of craft and music at Bowne & Co. on March 28, featuring live performances by Blair Lamb and hands-on activities with historical presses.
Explore the art of calligraphy at the South Street Seaport Museum with Bowne & Co. designers. Two sessions on March 15 offer a deep dive into historical calligraphic techniques.
The South Street Seaport Museum will present a walking tour celebrating influential women of Lower Manhattan this March, highlighting their historical contributions.
South Street Seaport Museum will host a vibrant celebration of Holi, featuring free admission, dance and drum performances, and the traditional throwing of colors. The event takes place from 11AM to 5PM, with special activities scheduled throughout the day.
The South Street Seaport Museum will host its Fresh Prints open house at Bowne & Co. this March, offering a hands-on printing experience with historic equipment.
Join Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Paul Muldoon at the South Street Seaport Museum for How to Read a Poem, a unique event exploring contemporary poetry. Tickets are $45.
The South Street Seaport Museum will present a hybrid SEA CHANTEYS & Maritime Music event on the first Sunday of each month, blending in-person and virtual participation. Join the tradition at 12 Fulton Street or online to experience historical maritime music.
The South Street Seaport Museum will present a series of family-oriented activities this March, focusing on maritime history and life at sea. These activities are designed to engage visitors of all ages with hands-on experiences.
The South Street Seaport Museum will host a special book club event for Black History Month, featuring 'Written in the Waters' by Tara Roberts. This free event encourages lively discussions on maritime history and cultural heritage.
Join the South Street Seaport Museum for a lively, moderated conversation with author Kelley Kreitz exploring the themes of her new book, Printing Nueva York, and the vibrant world of Spanish-language publishing in 19th century New York City.
Join the South Street Seaport Museum for a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration, featuring lion dances and free admission. The event welcomes the Year of the Horse with cultural performances and activities.
South Street Seaport Museum will present a series of Valentine's Day events starting in February 2026, including Valentine Like a Sailor, Print Your Own Valentine's Day Card, and Queer History: Walt Whitman's Secret Loves.
The South Street Seaport Museum will present a series of family activity weekends in February, featuring hands-on activities that explore maritime history and life at sea. These events are designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Join the South Street Seaport Museum for a hybrid Sea Chanteys & Maritime Music event, blending in-person and online participation. The event will take place on the first Sunday of every month at 12 Fulton Street and via Zoom.
The South Street Seaport Museum will present a unique printing experience at Bowne & Co, continuing the tradition of historical job printing in New York.
South Street Seaport Museum Frequently Asked Questions
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!
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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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