New York City is a charmer. On a Monday morning in Manhattan, you are caught in a crowd of office goers, working in the most important city in the world, and doing quite well too.

On the weekends, you probably have time to look for tourists who are enjoying the sights and sounds of the city, which is a dream-come-true for many. And if you are a tourist, everything you see around is a potential thing to visit and admire.

If you have already covered the Fifth Avenue, Broadway and Times Square, then maybe what you should do next and not miss is downtown New York City or Lower Manhattan.

Lower Manhattan - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lower_Manhattan

This is where you get an essence of the past and present of New York on the same platter. The most famous site in Lower Manhattan has undoubtedly become Ground Zero, where the World Trade Center stood.

New York City Rebuilding Downtown

http://www.columbia.edu/cu/lweb/indiv/avery/nyc_rebuild.html

Also, in the area you can find many historic constructions and business parks. Some of these are the Castle Garden, the Federal Hall, the New York Stock Exchange and the like.

The easiest way to explore downtown NYC is to take the subway or the bus services. Peak times would be from 7 to 10 in the morning and 5 to 7 in the evening. At these times, try and avoid public transport, especially if you are not familiar with it.

Other places to visit for art and culture enthusiasts would be Greenwich Village, SoHo and Chinatown. There is too much to see, so spare a couple of days.

Downtown Alliance

http://www.downtownny.com/

Greenwich Village New York City

http://www.nycgv.com/

If you have come to New York City as a tourist, your visit cannot be complete without trip to the harbor in the downtown area of New York City. The most enjoyable medium for doing this is the sightseeing cruise. Sailing around the most famous skyline in the world is a totally unique experience.

Circle Line Downtown is one of those travel agencies which offer many packages for sightseeing in the downtown areas. More popular are their sightseeing cruises.

Circle Line Downtown Info about Cruises

http://www.circleline42.com/new-york-cruises/browse.aspx?group=5

The ZEPHYR is one of the most comfortable cruise packages offered here. This is a 1 hour yacht travel with offers many amenities such as climate controlled decks, where you can enjoy the amazing sights outside.

As you cruise, you will pass the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty and others. This will be a completely fun filled ride for people of all ages from children to seniors. Thus, this is an ideal package for families and is equally suitable for a wonderful romantic time.

Review of Zephyr Yacht Cruise on About.com

http://gonyc.about.com/od/sightseeingtours/fr/circle_zephyr.htm

If you love adventure the shark speedboat thrill ride is something you will immensely love. The package consists of a 30 minute ride by speed boat through the South Street Seaport.

The thrill of the wind lashing in your face is something you will remember throughout your life. This ride is advisable for those whose height is at above 40″.

Info about Shark Speedboat on Goldstar

http://www.goldstar.com/events/new-york-ny/circle-lines-shark-speedboat-thrill-ride.html

Sightseeing cruises depart from the Piers 16 and 17 at regular intervals. You should not have any problems finding a cruise at any time of the day.

Guide to Sightseeing in Downtown New York Cruises

http://new-york-travel.suite101.com/article.cfm/harbor-cruises-offer-new-york-sightseeing-from-the-water