Start Your Day with a Bagel and the Iconic Charging Bull

Start Your Day with a Bagel and the Iconic Charging Bull

When you arrive in New York, there’s no better way to kick off your day than with an authentic bagel. Swing by Liberty Bagels to try the BEC (bacon, egg, and cheese bagel) – it’s my personal favorite! If you’re in the mood for something lively, you might choose a rainbow bagel, but I recommend the Egg Everything bagel with cream cheese and chives for a lighter option, or stick with a traditional BEC if you need a hearty boost.

After fueling up, make sure to visit the famous Charging Bull statue right nearby. You can hang out and snap some photos there, or take a short stroll to the New York Stock Exchange, where you’ll find the Fearless Girl statue relocated.

Stroll Through Seaport and Pier 17

By around 10 AM, I love wandering around the Seaport area – one of my favorite spots in FiDi. This neighborhood is filled with delicious restaurants, quirky shops, and stunning river views. You can meander through charming little boutiques nestled on cobblestone streets.

At about 11:30 AM, the Fulton Stall Market opens up, offering a variety of tasty treats, handmade crafts, and vintage finds. I often spend a couple of hours at McNally Jackson – a fantastic bookstore where you can relax and explore.

Lunch at PJ Clarke's by the Hudson River

When lunchtime rolls around, I head back to the “shore” side of FiDi to indulge in some delicious eats at PJ Clarke's. This spot is a favorite among many editors at Traveler, with Kat Chen dubbing it the “Cadillac of burgers.” Although technically located in Battery Park City, its closeness to FiDi makes it feel like an extension of the area.

If you have some time before or after your meal, be sure to check out Rockefeller Park or the Battery Park City Esplanade – beautiful green spaces perfect for a riverside stroll.

Take in the Views from New York's Tallest Point

At 2 PM, I visit the Oculus – almost like the backyard of Traveler. This unique architectural marvel houses numerous shops where you can snag some great photos. To reach the One World Observatory, just step outside the Oculus and head over to 117 West Street.

From here, you can also visit the 9/11 Memorial, featuring two large reflecting pools – a serene outdoor space dedicated to remembering the victims of the past tragedy.

Unwind at the Bar Room at Beekman

Around 4:30 PM, I pop into the Bar Room at Beekman to relax. This classic and elegant spot is perfect for enjoying an afternoon cocktail or simply grabbing a coffee or tea.

An Evening at Fraunces Tavern

As the clock strikes 7 PM, I can’t resist stopping by Fraunces Tavern – the oldest bar in New York. This place not only serves delicious food, but it also exudes a rich historical atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Every corner of the tavern has its own charm, and I usually opt for The Piano Bar Upstairs for a delightful dinner accompanied by soothing music.

For dinner, I recommend trying the Slow Roasted Chicken Pot Pie or the Fish & Chips; you won’t be disappointed!

End Your Day with Exquisite Drinks at Dead Rabbit

Finally, if I still have some energy left, I often wrap up my day at Dead Rabbit to enjoy some fantastic cocktails. The bar is not only famous for its drinks but also boasts an impressive selection of Irish whiskey. The cozy atmosphere is quintessentially Irish pub.

That’s how I spend a wonderful day in FiDi. Each time I return, I always discover something new and exciting in this vibrant area.