Things to Do in Lower Manhattan With Kids, a Short Walk From 17 John
By 17John ·
Quick answer
The Financial District is an easy base for a family trip because most of what kids like is within a short, flat walk: Battery Park and the harbor ferries to the south, the tall ships and open space at South Street Seaport to the east, and the Brooklyn Bridge in between. Staying in a suite with a full kitchen and free pack-n-plays means you can cook, keep nap schedules, and skip the restaurant-every-meal problem that wears families out.
The rooftop terrace is a calm spot to end a busy family day.
Traveling in Lower Manhattan with kids is easier than people expect, mostly because the distances are short and flat. From 17 John Street you can reach the harbor, the waterfront, and a lot of open space on foot, which means fewer subway meltdowns and more of the day spent actually doing things. It's also quiet down here on weekends once the office crowd clears out, which makes a real difference when you're managing little ones.
We get a lot of families, so here's an honest run-down of what's worth your time nearby, plus a few practical notes on doing it with kids. A couple of things about the suite matter here too: every one has a full kitchen, so you can make breakfast and keep snacks on hand, and we keep pack-n-plays on hand free of charge if you let us know before you arrive.
Battery Park and the harbor ferries
· About a 12-minute walk south · $
Open green space at the harbor edge with wide views, room to run, and the Statue of Liberty ferry leaving from right here. Kids love the boats even if you never board one. Go in the morning before it gets hot; there's not much shade at the water.
South Street Seaport
· A few blocks east, under 10 minutes · $
Cobblestone streets, historic tall ships to look at, and open plaza space by the water. Easy to let kids wander a bit, and there are places to grab a snack right there. A good low-pressure afternoon that doesn't need tickets.
The Brooklyn Bridge walkway
· About a 10-minute walk east · Free
You don't have to cross the whole bridge to make it worth it. Walk out onto the pedestrian path for the views and turn back when the kids are done. Best early in the day before the crowds thicken.
The 9/11 Memorial grounds and One World Trade area
· A short walk northwest · Free to visit the outdoor memorial
The outdoor memorial pools and surrounding plaza are open and free to walk through, and older kids often find them meaningful. Judge the museum by your children's ages; the outdoor grounds work for any age as a quiet walk.
