We love navigating neighborhoods in NYC on foot – and Lower Manhattan is one of our favorite districts. The area is highlighted by historic places, iconic buildings and poignant memorials.
It is an exceptional place to explore – and we outline a perfect route in this Free, Self-Guided Lower Manhattan Walking Tour.
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Showcasing the best sights and must-see attractions, our walking tour includes the Battery, Wall Street, the 9-11 Memorial and One World Trade Center – plus a few hidden gems!
About this Self-Guided Lower Manhattan Walking Tour
We created this walk to help travelers navigate the streets of Downtown Manhattan – for free. We also feature this district on Day 1 of our 4-Day Budget NYC Itinerary and on Day 3 of our 1-Week New York Itinerary.
Later in the article, we provide an NYC Lower Manhattan Map that pinpoints each sight. For walking directions, use the map links for each individual stop.
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Self-Guided Walking Tour Lower Manhattan
The 1.5-mile walk begins at The Battery and ends at The Oculus. It should take about 2 hours to complete the tour, but feel free to linger or enter any of the sights along the route.
Later, we offer suggestions for places to eat in the neighborhood and nearby attractions so that you can continue your NYC sightseeing.
#1 The Battery
MAP. Previously known as Battery Park, this slice of nature sits at the southern tip of Manhattan. The name dates to the late 1600s when the area housed a fort and artillery batteries to defend against invasion.
Not to be missed is the free Castle Clinton National Monument. Built in the early 1800s, the fort was repurposed into an immigration center in the 1850s, welcoming thousands into the US. Today, rangers offer free 20-minute tours.
The Battery is also home to the WWII East Coast Memorial, the American Merchant Mariners Memorial and the modern (and oh-so-cool) SeaGlass Carousel.
From the southern shoreline, it’s also possible to get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty. We share tips about how to get an even better free view later!
#2 Bowling Green, Charging Bull and Museum
MAP. A small green space encircled by an elegant 18th century wrought iron fence, Bowling Green ranks as the oldest park in NYC. It is listed on the US Register of Historic Places.
On the south end is one of the best Lower Manhattan museums: Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian.
Free to enter, the collection is a trove of Native American artifacts and photographs – plus, they offer kid-friendly activities.
Standing just north of the tear-shaped park is the iconic Charging Bull sculpture, which was created by artist Arturo Di Modica in 1989.
He made it following the stock market crash of 1987 as a nod to the self-determined (some might say bullish) spirit of America.
Weighing 3.5 tons, the bronze sculpture mysteriously appeared in front of the New York Stock Exchange in the middle of the night. It was quickly relocated to nearby Bowling Green.
It is estimated that 1,000 tourists stop to see the Charging Bull each day. Many people pose with it for a photo and then rub its nose, horns and genitals (no joke) for good luck.
#3 Wall Street, NYSE and Memorials
MAP. Every NYC traveler should step foot in on Wall Street in the Financial District – and it’s the next stop on our Lower Manhattan tour!
Running for 8 blocks, Wall Street is synonymous with the US financial markets. That’s because the New York Stock Exchange – the world’s largest – stands at the corner of Wall and Broad.
Although the NYSE is closed to visitors, there’s plenty to see nearby. Defiantly standing on Broad Street is The Fearless Girl, a symbol of women’s empowerment and confidence. Those visiting NYC in December can also see the traditional NYSE Christmas Tree.
Catty-corner from the NYSE is the Federal Hall National Memorial, which is often referred to as the Birthplace of American Government.
It is where George Washington was sworn in as the first United States president in 1789. The site is run by the National Park Service and it’s free to go inside.
Walking Tour Tip: If you’re up for exploring a bit more, head to Stone Street (between Coenties Alley and William Street – MAP). An absolute gem, the cobblestone street is lined with fashionable eateries. Continue further east and step into the quaint Queen Elizabeth II Garden.
#4 New York City Trinity Church and Graveyard
MAP. Steeped in history, visiting Trinity Church is one of the top Lower Manhattan things to do. Even though the church has been rebuilt three times, it’s a treasured historic landmark.
The first church at this location opened 1698, but was destroyed by the Great New York City Fire of 1776. The second Trinity Church was built in 1790 – and was the place of prayer for President Washington.
The current structure – with its soaring spire – was completed in 1846. At that time, it ranked as the tallest building in the United States!
The adjoining cemetery is the final resting place for a few prominent Americans, including Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Both the church and graveyard are free to visit (and have bathrooms).
After visiting Trinity Church, it’s worth wandering north to Zuccotti Park. The spacious square boasts a number of modern art sculptures and food trucks. (We share more suggestions about where to eat in Lower Manhattan below.)
#5 The Sphere in Liberty Park
MAP. Opened in 2016, Liberty Park is located south of One World Trade Center. The elevated perch looks out over the National September 11 Memorial. At the center of Liberty Park is The Sphere.
The 25-foot-tall sculpture once stood in the plaza between the Twin Towers. After the 9/11 attacks, The Sphere was recovered from the rubble at Ground Zero, surprisingly intact.
Left in the condition in which it was found, The Sphere was first placed in Battery Park, but was relocated to Liberty Park, closer to its original location.
#6 9-11 Memorial
MAP. The National 9-11 Memorial honors and remembers the nearly 3,000 people who were killed on September 11, 2001. It’s a must-see on Lower Manhattan walking tours and it’s free to visit.
In place of where the Twin Towers once stood are two reflecting pools. Etched on the parapets are names of the victims – including those in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon, as well as those who died in the World Trade Center bombing in 1993.
Among the many trees at the monument is The Survivor Tree, which was discovered in the wreckage but still lives. It serves as a reminder of resilience and rebirth.
The 9-11 Memorial Museum is a somber but informative place to learn more about the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Exhibits feature artifacts and personal stories of survivors, as well as a tribute to those who perished. A ticket is required to enter.
Top Tip: If you need a moment to reflect, find your way to the nearby St. Paul’s Chapel (MAP). The historic church is known as The Little Chapel that Stood, as it sustained very little damage after the Twin Towers collapsed.
#7 One World Trade Center
MAP. Also known as the Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center was built from 2006 to 2013 on the north side of the 9/11 Memorial.
The highest structure in the country, it stands at 1,776 feet (the year of US independence). It’s also the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and 7th tallest in the world.
The One World Observatory, which is located on the 102nd floor, offers a birds’ eye view over NYC and the tri-state region.
#8 The Oculus
MAP. The final stop on our Lower Manhattan New York City Walking Tour is The Oculus. Sitting to the east of the 9/11 Memorial, it was designed to look like a dove in flight.
The unique building serves as a memorial and houses multiple subway stations as well as a shopping mall. Events are held in The Oculus throughout the year, including markets, art exhibits and performances.
It’s an architectural gem, both inside and out – but don’t miss the interior and the elevated view of the main floor.
Map of Lower Manhattan NYC Walking Tour
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Self-Guided Lower Manhattan Walking Tour route. Use this Map for walking directions. 
Top Tips for Exploring Lower Manhattan
Our walking tour is an excellent introduction to the district, but we have some additional advice to complete this guide to Downtown NYC.
Lower Manhattan Restaurants
If you are looking for places to eat – either before, after or even during your walk – we have a few suggestions.
Cheap Eats
- Joe’s Pizza: Established in 1975, Joe’s is a classic pizza-by-the-slice joint selling huge cheese slices for just $4.
- Pearl Diner: An old-school American diner with heaps of charm, Pearl has been serving up hearty fare for 50 years.
- DIG: A farm-to-table cafeteria offering affordable options for healthy eats.
- Xi’an Famous Foods: One of our go-to spots of cheap meals in NYC, I love the Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger, but their inexpensive dumplings are a solid choice, too!
Iconic Classics
- Fraunces Tavern: Claiming to be the oldest bar in NYC – and once frequented by the US Founding Fathers – Fraunces has a solid menu of upscale pub food.
- Delmonico’s: Serving superb steaks since 1837, Delmonico’s is the epitome of American fine dining.
More Downtown Manhattan Things To Do
After discovering Lower Manhattan on foot, explore more of the area with these tips!
Free Staten Island Ferry
The commuter ferry from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island is the absolute best way to get a close look at the Statue of Liberty for free. Plus, the views of the Manhattan skyline are sensational!
We share all the details on how to catch a ride in our article, Top Free Things To Do in NYC. In addition to the free ferry, there are numerous Manhattan Island Cruises that include on board commentary.
Seaport District
Featuring some of the oldest buildings in NYC, Seaport and its landmark piers date to the early 1600s. Today, the area has been revitalized into an entertainment hub of shopping, eating and drinking.
City Hall and Brooklyn Bridge
Completed in 1812, New York City Hall is a National Historic Landmark and the oldest in the US. It’s also a great starting point for walking across the Brooklyn Bridge!
Top Travel Tip: Looking for an easy way to get around Lower Manhattan? Catch a free ride on the Downtown NY Circular Bus or rent an electric bicycle.
Self-Guided Lower Manhattan Walking Tour Essentials
Walking Shoes: To complete this tour comfortably, you will want a good pair of travel shoes.
Day Bag: A zippered travel day pack is a necessity in NYC do deter pickpockets.
Camera: Capture the beauty of NYC with a real camera – like this DSLR Canon Rebel.
Power Bank: You will need your device for walking directions; bring a portable charger for a midday boost.
More NYC Walking Tours and Trip Tips
- Midtown NYC Walking Tour
- Central Park Walking Tour
- Top Budget Tips for NYC
Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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