I don’t know how many times I’ve been to New York City in my life. It easily must be in the hundreds. My first time in the Big Apple was back in 1994 when I went with my sister as her assistant when she was sourcing wholesalers for her business. More than twenty years later, I still see the city in wide-eyed amazement. There’s always something new to see and do. Lately, I have been spending more time in Downtown NYC. I’ve created a little guide on how to spend a weekend in Downtown NYC.
Getting There
If you’re coming from Washington, DC or Philly, a weekend in Downtown NYC is the perfect road trip if you’re not a fan of the bus or train. I am a bit hesitant to share this little secret with you: parking is easy to find in Downtown NYC on weekends. Our last three trips have been by car, and we’ve quickly gotten FREE street parking on all trips! If arriving at Penn Station, I recommend getting a MetroCard and jumping on the Subway as there can be a lot of traffic on the way downtown.
What do Do
Where do we start? You can seriously spend a weekend in Downtown NYC without having to go Midtown or Uptown. Here are my favorites:
One World Trade Center:
I’ll be honest, I waited a few years to go to One World Observatory because I was hesitant about the lines and the wait. I always said, “I’ll wait until I’m in the city on a weekday to go.” However, I made my visit on the weekend and at the recommendation of a friend, I arrived at 9am when it opens on Sunday. I won’t give many details about the experience as I don’t want to spoil some of the surprises. One thing I will share is that the views are stunning from the top.
Scenic Run
There are so many fun places to eat in Downtown NYC that you may need to work off the calories. Make time for a run along the East Side Highway with the views of the Staten Island Ferry. Work your way around Battery Park and up the West Side Highway for a fantastic view of One World Trade Center and the Downtown NYC skyline. Another fun route: Run up to the Brooklyn Bridge and take in the New York City Skyline from Brooklyn!
9/11 Memorial:
A weekend in Downtown NYC is not complete without a visit to the 9/11 Memorial. This date is etched in the heart of all New Yorkers and millions of Americans. To see the names of those who perished on this fateful day gives you a sobering perspective on life.
Staten Island Ferry
This must be the cheapest way to get some great views of New York City from the water. Also, many locals take the Staten Island Ferry as part of their daily commute. It gives you an exciting glimpse of local New York City Life.
Battery Park
If your kids are coming along in your weekend in Downtown NYC adventure, Battery park is the perfect spot to let them unwind with unique play spaces. Our toddler enjoyed running around the park and playing with the musical floor installation.
Exploring the Financial District
Although the Financial District can be quiet on weekends, it’s fun to walk around and take in the modern architecture (my favorite is the Oculus). Some may want to go and take pictures of the Charging Bull, I am there specifically for the Fearless Girl. This symbolic sculpture perfectly represents our current state affairs when it comes to the fight for gender equality.
Chinatown
As a lover of Asian cuisine, I pretty much make a stop at Chinatown every time I come to New York City. My best friend Jaime who is Chinese always takes me to eat noodles or for dim sum. She always orders in Cantonese, so I don’t know what I am getting most of the time, but it is still delicious! Check out our Chinatown food post!
Shopping
My weekend in Downtown NYC itinerary always has a few hours designated for shopping. There’s something for everyone. I can probably spend a few hours shopping at the Westfield World Trade Center. However, my favorite spot in Century 21. This place is massive, but it has a great selection of designer goods at a deep discount. Think DVF dresses for $100. I’m obsessed with their children section. I always find the cutest finds for my baby girl such as Kate Spade dresses and Adidas tracksuits. Dining Traveler Tip: Many hotels have Century 21 discount cards. Ask your front desk attendants.
Where to stay
Downtown NYC has many great hotels, from quirky to high-end properties. For a boutique hotel feel with all the conveniences of the Starwood (now Marriott) brand, stay at the Aloft Financial District. Its cozy rooms, cute lobby, and friendly staff make Aloft a solid choice.
For modern luxury, stay at Conrad NYC. This luxury property under the Hilton brand spoils you from the minute of your arrival. Make sure to ask for a room with a river view and have a cocktail at their rooftop bar.
The Frederick NYC is a cozy boutique hotel located a few blocks from the World Trade Center. The friendly staff makes you feel at home, and the location makes it the perfect spot to stay for a weekend in Downtown NYC.
A Weekend in Downtown NYC: The Verdict
This post gives you a quick window of everything you can see and do during a weekend in Downtown NYC because there is so much more to see and do. Trust me; you’ll find it difficult to go back uptown! Get more insider tips to NYC via the Downtown NYC Alliance website.
