Wall Street

The basics

Wall Street features grand architecture and world-famous financial landmarks, including the New York Stock Exchange and the House of Morgan. The 18th-century Federal Hall commemorates the site where the first US Congress convened, and where George Washington was sworn in as president. More contemporary works include Santiago Calatrava's World Trade Center Oculus and One World Trade Center, the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.

With New York's Financial District also connected to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, many walking tours of the area include visits to the National September 11 Memorial. Tours typically also take visitors to such landmarks as the Charging Bull sculpture and the New York Stock Exchange. Some also include access to the One World Observatory. Fans of the hit musical "Hamilton" can go on a specialized walking tour of places associated with the Founding Father, like Trinity Church.

Things to know before you go

• Wall Street is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts, who can go on a guided tour of Wall Street landmarks.

• The 9/11 Memorial is free to visit, but there is an entrance fee to the museum.

• Remember to behave in a way befitting the somber nature of the 9/11 Memorial.

• The New York Stock Exchange is no longer open to Wall Street tours, but the Federal Reserve offers free tours to Wall Street ticket holders.

How to get there

Wall Street, Rector Street, Fulton Street, and Broad Street subway stations are all clustered around the Federal Reserve and Wall Street landmarks, making the financial center easily accessible from anywhere on New York's subway system.

When to get there

On weekends, when banks, the stock market, and the Dow Jones are closed and streets are near empty, it can feel like you have the whole place to yourself, allowing you the space to take in the architecture. Note, however, that Wall Street restaurants primarily serving the people who work there usually also close on weekends. If you want to see Wall Street in action, visit on a weekday morning.

One World Observatory

Located on the 100th to 102nd floors of the 1,776-foot-high (541-meter) One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory offers the most expansive views in the city, as well as informative, interactive exhibits. Booking priority admission gives you access to the VIP line and the VIP elevator, which takes you straight to the top without waiting in line.

Ways to explore

Wall Street tours typically feature the area’s grand architecture and landmarks, ranging from the 18th-century Federal Hall to contemporary masterpieces including One World Trade Center—the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. With New York’s Financial District also connected to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, many walking tours of the area include visits to the National September 11 Memorial, some with access to the One World Observatory. Tours typically also take visitors to landmarks such as the Charging Bull statue and the New York Stock Exchange. Fans of the hit musical Hamilton can go on a specialized walking tour of places associated with the Founding Father, such as Trinity Church.

Accessibility

Many wheelchair-accessible routes are around Wall Street, and plenty of tours are suitable for travelers using wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunglasses

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers

Not allowed

While restrictions vary by experience, activities such as smoking and eating during guided tours are generally frowned upon.

Amenities

Public restrooms at Battery Park, the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, Teardrop Park, and within Westfield World Trade Center; shops, restaurants

Address

Wall Street is located in Lower Manhattan’s Financial District. It spans eight blocks, or roughly 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers), between the East River and Broadway and is easily accessible from most New York City boroughs.

Driving

Driving in Manhattan is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic and limited parking. Save yourself some stress by hailing a cab or using a rideshare app instead. If you must drive, book a parking spot in advance to guarantee availability.

Public transportation

Subway stations near Wall Street abound, including Wall Street (2, 3, 4, 5), Broad Street (J, Z), Rector Street (1, R), and Fulton Street (A, C). From Brooklyn, you can also take the East River Ferry.

Best times to visit

Visit in the early morning to catch sunrise views over the East River and to see Wall Street in action as the financial industry wakes up.

Best days to visit

There are fewer crowds on the weekend when banks are closed, but nearby restaurants that cater to industry workers tend to close on weekends, too.

Best months to visit

Wall Street is a year-round destination, but you’ll experience the most pleasant weather for walking tours in late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October).

Special events

There’s always something happening on Wall Street, from educational programs at Federal Hall to holiday services at Trinity Church.