Explore New York’s origins as a world port and learn about the global interaction of commerce, labor and diverse cultures that took place at the Seaport in centuries past.

🐥 Play with toy boats and sea creatures among maritime-themed art by a beloved creator of picture books for young children at hands-on Seaport Discovery: Exploring Our Waters with Eric Carle.

🚢 Browse art and artifacts from 19th-century NYC in small galleries.  Examine, side-by-side, the dichotomy between First Class and Third Class passengers aboard ocean liners in the early 20th century in migrants and millionaires aboard great ocean liners in Millions: Migrants and Millionaires Aboard the Great Liners, 1900–1914.

⚓️ Visit the 130-year-old tall ship Wavertree with self-guided tours along a set route include access to the main deck and quarter deck. Learn how people worked and lived aboard a 19th century cargo sailing vessel, from the captain to the ship’s officers, cooks, and crew. Then visit the cargo hold and stand atop the viewing platform where you can take in the massive main cargo area. Pose for a photo at the ship’s wheel, and enjoy the view across New York Harbor.

⚓️ Take 30-minute guided free tours of 1908 lightship Ambrose, the very first lightship to guard the only shipping channel in and out of the ports of New York and New Jersey.

⛵️Book rides on the harbor on the 1885 Schooner Pioneer and last surviving New York-built wooden tugboat ($15-$30).

🎨 Enjoy hands-on activities and engagement stations for kids of all ages with creative opportunities that illuminate history and life at sea during Family Activity Weekends (Sat-Sun 11 am – 5 pm).

🛍 W a historic printing press and shop at 19th century-style gift emporium and letterpress print shop Bowne & Co., Stationers.

🍽 A range if food options in Seaport include burgers & soft serve ice cream dipped in candy shells at Mister Dips, Jean-Georges French/Asian food hall Tin Building and the insta-friendly Pink Pier.