29 Cool Things To Do In Tribeca (2024)

Are you looking for all the coolest things to do in Tribeca?

Tribeca, The Triangle Below Canal St., now known for its glamorous celebrities, and impossibly expensive real estate, is one of the most hip and mellow parts of the city to explore.

Where is the TriBeCa triangle? Well, it’s not exactly a triangle, but kind of a trapezoid. One side is along the Hudson River from Ann St. to Canal St. Side two is along Canal St. to Broadway. Side three is along Broadway to Ann St. And the short fourth side is from Ann St. back to the Hudson River.

In my early years as a New York resident, Tribeca was not a destination that locals, and certainly not tourists, would flock to. It was filled with abandoned factories, family residences, and underpaid artists of all kinds.

Today, when I wander the cobblestone streets of Tribeca, I see a vibrant part of the city filled with some of the most beautifully renovated historic buildings and a low key elegance that is very inviting.

While some may miss the old days of Tribeca, many adore its hip reputation and chic vibe. Tribeca has been able to blend its historic character with its artistic culture, making it a must-see part of NYC.

Here is my guide to Tribeca’s best attractions, hidden gems, and interesting history.

Here are 29 Cool Things to do in Tribeca

Let this guide take you through a list of my favorite things to do in Tribeca. Some for free, some for the whole family, and all of them, very cool!

#1 Take a Walking Tour of Tribeca 

I suggest starting with a walking tour because it’s a great way to see key spots, learn about the history, and get a feel for what you may want to return to see more of later.

Learn about New York City’s oldest neighborhood, its landmark buildings, and how it became the wealthiest parts of Manhattan. Hear how Tribeca went from farmland to the exclusive home beloved by celebrities. Check online for free walking tours, self-guided tours, or try the link below for  highly rated tour.

#2 Photoshoot at the Staple Street Skybridge

Staple St., 9 Jay St., 67 Hudson St.

The Staple Street Skybridge is one of Tribeca’s most photographed spots. It’s a two block alley with a covered cast iron bridge three stories up that connects the two buildings on either side of the street. One entrance is on Jay St. and the other on Hudson.

The buildings were originally owned by New York Hospital and the bridge was built in 1907 to connect the ER with the other building of the hospital.

Today the third floors of both buildings form a 7500 Square foot residential space and sold in recent years after being listed for $26 million, down from $50 million a few years prior. Apparently the founders of Slack and Away Luggage purchased the space in 2022.

Obviously, it’s a super popular Instagram shot spot, with a cool place in Tribeca’s history. Add this to your Must See in NYC list!

#3 Be a Fan at the Ghostbusters’ Fire Station – Ladder 8

14 North Moore St.

The Ladder 8 Fire Station has become a part of pop culture and is a fun tourist spot in Tribeca because of its part as the home of the Ghostbusters in the 1980’s movies. The firehouse has also been in Seinfeld, Hitch, and How I Met Your Mother. It still operates as an actual firehouse, because, of course, just the exterior is the movie star, not the interior!

#4 See the Historic Harrison Row Houses

27 – 41 Harrison St.

The famous row houses of Harrison St. were built  between the 1790’s – 1820’s. It is said that of the houses in that location currently, only a few were there originally. Several were moved from Washington St. in the 1970’s to help preserve the history of these Federalist style, red brick homes.

27 Harrison was built by the famous architect, John McComb, who designed City Hall and Hamilton’s country home, The Grange.

Discovering the gems of neighborhoods is one of the best reasons to visit NYC!

The row houses are of course now very desirable, gorgeously renovated, and sell for many, many millions of dollars!

#5 Solve a Mystery at the Mysterious Bookshop

58 Warren St.

The Mysterious Bookshop is the famous bookstore dedicated to the genres of mystery, crime, detective, suspense, and thrillers. It’s open Mon – Sat from 11AM – 7PM. Look for cool events there too, like readings, and book signings.

#6 Spot the Jenga Building –
the Tallest Skyscraper in Tribeca with a bean

56 Leonard St.

The infamous Jenga Building AKA Jenga Tower is named for the popular block-building game, because it’s floors jet out into the sky.

The famous Swiss architect firm Herzog & de Meuron designed this building to be the tallest skyscraper in Tribeca and referred to it as “houses stacked in the sky.”

The condo units in the building are owned by some of the wealthiest people in New York. The penthouse of the 60 story tower sold for $45 million – a 7779 square foot, five bedroom, five bath condo.

There’s even a replica of the Chicago Bean at the foot of the building because the same architect firm designed the famous Chicago sculpture.

#7 Playtime at Pier 25

West St. Hudson River Park

Pier 25 is the very cool recreation area developed on the Pier along the Hudson River in Tribeca. It is the longest pier in the park and is the spot for families and kids of all ages! Its a public, outdoor space with all kinds of activities from mini-golf, a playground, sand volleyball, to snacks, and more. Enjoy the great views overlooking the water, of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

#8 Step Back in Time on Lispenard St.

34- 60 Lispenard St.

A stroll down Lispenard St. is a walk through some of Manhattan’s most beautiful and historic streets. From numbers 34 – 60 Lispenard you’ll see Italian Renaissance revival architecture with gorgeous detailed facades.

These buildings from the 1800’s were home to many of New York’s most successful families and businesses. Walk through today just to enjoy the beauty and feel grateful they have been preserved so well.

#9 Visit MmuseumM – The Tiny Museum in NYC

4 Cortlandt Alley

MmuseumM is the smallest museum you have ever seen at 6 feet wide and deep and just  6 feet 3 inches high.

Mmuseumm is a refurbished elevator shaft that opens up to the sidewalk and contains shelves displaying random items called “modern day artifacts.”

For instance, items that individuals were carrying when they were shot by police, or knock off items from foreign countries that are made to look like their American equivalents.

The museum is only open Fri – Sun to enter, but you can see it 24/7 from the street by peeking through the windows.

The exhibit changes from time to time and according to their website, the museum is ”a non-profit public service dedicated to exploring the modern world and the human condition.”

#10 Visit the AT&T Long Lines Building

32 Ave of Americas

The AT&T Long Lines building was designed by Ralph Walker and was completed in 1932. It’s one of the largest Art Deco buildings in the city and is designated as an official New York City Landmark.

The telecommunications systems that were run through this building are hugely significant to the history of the New York Telephone Company,  the Bell Phone Company, and to the current AT&T operations.

Check out the mosaic murals in the lobby of the building. They depict the connections between Asia, Europe, Australia, and Africa.

#11 Gideon Tucker House – A Stop on the Underground Railroad

2 White St

The Gideon Tucker House was built in the Dutch style in 1808. The home was designed with space for a store on the ground level and has always remained as such. Even though Tucker was a successful business man of his day, he remained in the simple house until his death.

Most interesting is that this was later the home of a Black abolitionist minister named Theodore Wright. Wright helped free African American slaves and the home was a stop on the famed Underground Railroad.

Over the years, the store has been many things, including a dance parlor and a liquor store. It later became a bar called The Liquor Store and is now a well known men’s clothing store, called The Liquor Store! It’s a New York City Historic Landmark, check it out!

#12 Visit the Powell Building & Nobu – A Former Chocolate Factory

105 Hudson

The Powell Building, built in 1892, was originally the home of the Baker Chocolate Company and then later was purchased by the candy manufacturer Alexander Powell.

It is most famous for Robert De Niro’s high end Japanese restaurant Nobu on the ground floor.

The building is notable for its Renaissance Revival style designed by the same firm who built the New York City Library, Carrere & Hastings. The building continues to provide office space for artists on its lower floors with the upper floors for residences.

#13 Visit New York City’s Oldest Black Church

158 Church St. 

The building on the corner of Leonard St. and Church St. was the first home of New York’s oldest black church, the Mother African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, founded in 1796. The group remained at that location until 1864 when they relocated to a Harlem church. The 100 member congregation has grown to well over one million members today.

#14 New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX)

6 Harrison

The original New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) building is a stunning Queen Anne style, five story, red brick building complete with a tower. It has pillars and gables that stand out in the Tribeca neighborhood.

In 1886 the building opened and the Exchange continued to operate there until 1994 when NYMEX moved to a downtown location.

#15 Have a Biscuit at Bubby’s 

120 Hudson St.

Since 1990, Bubby’s has been a staple of the Tribeca restaurant scene. It serves classic, homemade American comfort food. The owner, artist and chef Ron Silver, is very dedicated to maintaining a place where the community can enjoy American food and all of its different ethnic flavors. The buttermilk biscuits are infamous! Make a reservation – it’s always busy!

#16 Relax in the Dream House 

275 Church St.

The Dream House is a Sound and Light Environment that is open to the public as an art installation running since the 1960’s.

You have to actively look for the entrance to the third floor apartment by locating the black door with the white sign that says Dream House.

Inside, you’ll find neon lights, three dimensional mixed media, and soothing, flowing sound waves. You can lay on the floor and just absorb the sound and light for the duration of your visit.

Originally founded by La Monte Young, it was his concept to play long, sustained tones for 100 years. Today, one floor above where the original space was, the installation has been running since 1993.

Young is quoted as saying “Music and light take place in time, and ideas can only evolve and develop over time if you have a situation setup that provides time.”

#17 Be a Connoisseur at the Brandy Library 

25 N. Moore St.

The Brandy Library is sophisticated bar in Tribeca known for offering over 1500 specialty and aged spirits, particularly brandy and whiskey. If you are a brandy connoisseur, then this is a stop for you!

#18 Shop at Phillips William’s Poster Store

122 Chambers St.

The Phillips William’s Poster Store is on this Tribeca Must See list because it is like a museum / gallery unlike any other you can find in Manhattan. This is the largest collection of over 100,000 posters from around the world dating back as far as 1870.

Not only can you purchase your favorite poster artwork, but they provide the framing services as well. You’ll find them open from 10AM – 7PM Monday through Saturday.

#19 Soak in the Aire Ancient Baths

88 Franklin St.

If you are looking for a luxurious self-care day, then find your way to the magnificent Aire Anciet Baths spa in Tribeca. It is called an “oasis” because it is literally like a step back into an ancient bath house where you are treated like royalty.

The 1883 former textile factory has been renovated into a gorgeous and comfortable spa designed to cater to your every need. Book massages, hot tubs, and other fabulous experiences for  yourself or a couple during your Tribeca visit.

#20 Stop at Tiny’s & The Bar Upstairs

135 West Broadway

I love visiting Tiny’s for a cocktail time – shared plates kind of mood, but they serve great lunches and dinners as well. Look for seafood, vegetarian dishes, and great cocktails.

Tiny’s is located in a tiny house that is also known as The Pink House because, well, its Pink! It has become an iconic site in the neighborhood owned by three siblings  who wanted to create a charming and welcoming space out of a renovated 1800’s building.

You’ll see original brick and copper and will love the cozy atmosphere. Sit upstairs in the sunny window seats and enjoy a late afternoon break! Find more favorite NYC restaurants here!

#21 Visit The Woolworth Building –
Once the Tallest Building in the World

233 Broadway

The famed Woolworth Building was once the world’s tallest building from 1913 – 1930. It’s still in the top 100 tallest buildings in the USA.

It’s a beautiful site on the edge of Tribeca and the Financial District (FiDi). The lobby is ornate and the top floor was once an observatory. There was even a swimming pool in the basement.

The building has undergone a lot of renovations and the top floors have been transformed into residences.

It’s not just a New York City Historic Landmark but is also a National Historic Landmark as well, for its significant architectural importance. Look for guided tours of the building to learn more.

#22 Dine at the Odeon

145 West Broadway

The Odeon is a famous French-American style bistro in Tribeca that has been a famous nightlife spot since the 1980’s. Its always been a favorite for the artsy crowd. I’m still dreaming about the pan seared salmon dinner I had there! Make a Reservation!

#23 Stroll on the Hudson River Greenway

As part of Tribeca’s waterfront, you can enjoy time along the Hudson River Greenway. It is a park that runs along Manhattan’s west side all the way from Battery Park downtown up to Dyckman Park to the north end. You can walk, run, bike, or just hang out by the water in this special New York City greenspace. The views are awesome! And consider a cruise on the Hudson to see Lady Liberty, or just a sunset over Manhattan.

#24 Spend Time at the World Trade Center

1 World Trade Center

On the lower edge of Tribeca, connecting to the Financial District, stands one of the most significant places in New York and the world – The World Trade Center. This part of lower Manhattan can be a full day’s activity.

The entire complex of buildings that make up the area have replaced what was destroyed during the 9/11 attacks in 2001. 

As part of this important part of town, you’ll find the Reflection Pools, the 9/11 Memorial Museum, the Oculus transportation center and shopping mall, and the businesses of the World Trade Center, as well as the One World Observatory.

I have visited this area over and over again and am moved to powerful emotions each time. While there are a lot of entertaining and interesting things to do here, what always stands out to me are the pools with their carvings of names of the fallen surrounding the cascading water.

Don’t miss this experience when you are visiting Tribeca. 

#25 Shop in the Oculus

The Oculus is the massive white architectural wonder at One World Trade Center. 

It’s a the large transportation hub designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, resembling a dove leaving a child’s hands. 

The Oculus replaced the train station that  was destroyed in 9/11. It’s a huge shopping center with restaurants, offices, and views of the Freedom Tower.

#26 The World Famous Tribeca Film Festival

We can’t really talk about Tribeca without mentioning the famed Tribeca Film Festival which occurs in April – May.

It was founded in 2002 by Jane Rosenthal, Craig Hatkoff, and Robert De Niro, to help with the revitalization of Lower Manhattan after the 9/11 attacks.

It has become one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world and  showcases a diverse selection of films, documentaries, shorts, and digital content.

The festival has become a cultural institution in Tribeca and all of New York City. Look for the free outdoor screenings, family friendly events, concerts, and street fairs associated with the festival. Check the festival website for more information if you are visiting NYC in the Spring.

#27 Visit the New York City Fire Museum

278 Spring St.

The NYC Firefighters have had a museum in some form, dedicated to honoring their service, since 1870. The current museum displays exhibits that show the history of firefighting from bucket brigades to modern techniques. There is also a special exhibit dedicated to the firefighters who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.

The museum is housed in a renovated 1904 firehouse and is open Wednesday – Sunday 10AM – 5PM

#28 Listen to Jazz at Django

2 Sixth Ave.

Tribeca’s famous Roxy Hotel hosts a famous Jazz Club called The Django. (Yes, my husband, Dann Zinn, has performed there!) NYC has so many great nightime activities and jazz is one.

The Django is an underground, extremely cool, cave-like jazz club. There, you can hear the best musicians around, dine, have cocktails, and feel like you’re in a different world below Manhattan. Seven nights a week you can listen and enjoy jazz!  

#29 Gallery Hop

Tribeca has long been the home to many artists and as the area became more and more gentrified and home to the ultra wealthy, more and more art galleries have popped up. I love doing gallery walks because it is like going to a ton of mini museums in one day! While there are other great gallery heavy neighborhoods in Manhattan, Tribeca’s is a favorite. With over 40 galleries in this neighborhood, you could be busy for many days! I recommend doing a walking Art Tour.

Where to Stay in Tribeca

Is Tribeca safe? Is Tribeca Safe at night?

While Tribeca used to have a funky reputation and may have felt less safe in years past, it is now one of the most safe parts of Manhattan. 

The celebrities who bring their status to the neighborhood have helped to lower the crime rate in the area. The city has implemented some crime reduction tools and apparently. its working!

Also, since Tribeca offers a lot of late night bars and restaurants, you’ll not be alone on the streets of Tribeca at night. Unlike Central Park at night, I would say Tribeca is fairly safe at night.

How Do I Get To Tribeca?

Depending on where your starting point is, the subway is an efficient way to get to tribeca.

Find the A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, Z, 1, 2, 3, 6 trains.  Take the train to the Franklin Street Station.

How To Get Around NYC 

New York City can feel like a big place, but  you can still get everywhere you want to go during your visit. 

→ NYC By Subway

Subways are a safe and convenient way to get around NYC. 

PRO TIP #1:  Download the MY MTA app on your phone. This is the official Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) app for NYC subways and bus system. 

PRO TIP #2: If you’re using your Maps/GPS App on your phone, hit the “transit” view and it will tell you where the closest subway station is and which train to take to your destination.

PRO TIP #3: THE EASIEST way to pay is to make sure you have your credit card loaded on your phone in your “wallet.” When you open that card you simply TAP the OMNY screen at the turnstile of the subway stop and it charges you. Just Like Magic!

PRO TIP #4: You can also purchase a Metrocard card on your phone or at a subway station and use it on the buses as well. Rides cost $2.90, and a 7 day, unlimited ride card is $33. You can also swipe through the turnstile and pass the card to 4 travel partners behind you. 

PRO TIP #5: If you download an OMNY card and pay with the same card or device for 12 rides in a week, the rest of the week is free!

→ NYC By Uber, Lyft, Revel, or Taxi

Ride share apps are always a great, safe, and convenient way to get around NYC, but will cost you more. When with a group of friends or family however, it might be more cost effective to share a ride than pay for all the subway fares.

PRO TIP #6:  Load all the ride apps onto your phone in advance. Then check the prices of Uber, Lyft, and Revel before your order, to compare. Prices vary a lot at different times of the day and night.

Taxis are also available everywhere, but require the old hailing-from-the-curb system. If the light on the top of the cab is on, that means it’s available. There is an app called Curb that you can download to locate a cab. But I’ve heard the cabs don’t come as quickly as the other ride shares do.

→ Walking Around NYC

Walking in NYC is the best (and my favorite) way to get around. It’s safe, easy to do, and you get to experience and see a lot more of the city that way. Map out your day and see how much of it you can do on foot. You’ll be surprised how much of the  of Manhattan you can cover between touring activities!

You can even walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into Brooklyn from Tribeca!

What is Tribeca famous For?

Tribeca is known for its significant historic contribution to Lower Manhattan. Tribeca transitioned from being the hub of the textile and dry goods market in the 19th century to a more deserted industrial area in the mid-20th century.

And then it became “Tribeca” the Triangle Below Canal Street.  It turned into a residential neighborhood for artists looking for the large spaces that the old factories and warehouses provided.

Since the 1970’s, that boom has continued and now it is teeming with the rich and famous.

Tribeca is famous now for all the movie stars and wealthy celebrities who keep the neighborhoods exciting, safe – and expensive!

Now you have a great list of the 29 Cool Things to do in Tribeca

In a nutshell…

Visiting Tribeca offers you a unique blend of culture, history, charm, and chic sophistication. If you are like me, you love seeing the art galleries and the amazing architecture. I love learning about the history of the streets and the people who lived there.

And, if you are also like me, you love hanging out in hip restaurants and cafes on your trip to New York.

Well, Tribeca lets you do all of that! It’s picturesque and interesting, and has some of the most desired properties in Manhattan right now. So, go see what all the fuss is about!

Check out my other New York City posts for more ideas of things to do in the Big Apple.