If you are looking to spend time away from the city within the city, South Street Seaport close to Wall St. is where you should head to during summer. Pier 17 to be exact. It is hard to imagine how a weekend place like this could have evolved next to one of the most vicious business centers in the world. Yet, South Street Seaport proves to be a gem isolated from overcrowded Manhattan streets, honks, hot-dog stands and traffic.
Water Taxi Beach right next to the pier gets you as close to a real beach in Manhattan with a handful of sand spread below wooden tables and chairs, some music to clean out the ears and the views of the contaminated East River, the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn. It is hard to deny that the currently bankrupt General Growth Properties, Inc. built Pier 17 as a tourist attraction with numerous souvenir shops and restaurants that serve anything from seafood to poultry. If that idea does not really apply to you you can find a better range of shops and food places beyond the pier away from the water side. Some beer, fries and mini burgers are a good break at the Heartland Brewery & Beer Hall. Pizzas at UNO Chicago Grill are delicious. Taking the water taxi over to the Brooklyn side is always an option.
For more info visit www.southstreetseaport.com
