Hanover Sq to Old Slip Between Stone St and South St

It was inevitable that while documenting lower Manhattan I was going to end up with a confusing post title like the one seen here. Allow me to explain: Starting at Hanover Square I walked south-east down the street and, after one block, found it transformed into Old Slip (arguably more a public court surrounded by two one-way roads) which terminates at South St (with the FDR hovering above). If that still makes no sense, you can refer to the map below.

Unlike the other obscure blocks in the Financial District which I covered earlier in the week (and will again in the future) this is much more of a destination for tourists (but not really, so calm the hell down). It's pretty close to the South Street Seaport promenade, so it's not unthinkable to imagine people stumbling into Hanover Square to catch a glimpse of India House or other buildings. Conversely, it's interesting to come into the clearing of the Square from the maze of streets to the north. There's a sense of open-ness and relief as you can once again see the sunlight and water.

Old Slip Park is home to a handsome building which houses the New York City Police Museum. I was interested in visiting the place, but alas, it ain't free.

I don't know what it is about Hanover Square, but it seems to be THE place for insurance companies as both HIP and Guardian had major headquarters sitting down there.

I'm a big fan of the waterfront down here. Sure, it's littered with people and the endless whirr of helicopter tours. But the view can't be beat as you circle around the tip to the Staten Island Ferry terminal.

View Larger Map