Having lived in Battery Park City for 3 years and having had our wedding hotel, our rehearsal dinner (Stella which is still closed – pictured at right), and our after wedding celebrations (at Meade’s) all take place in South Street Seaport, my husband and I have developed a fond admiration and loyalty to the area.  As we all know, many businesses, restaurants and retail stores have suffered huge set backs since Hurricane Sandy, some may never even reopen.  It’s really sad to think about the devastation South Street Seaport’s commerce has endured.

Long before Sandy, the Seaport started to undergo major transformation.  Development projects improved the waterfront between the Staten Island Ferry and Peck Slip, added dog runs and the “new” Pier 15 featuring a double level observation deck {pictured left} and I’m even hearing about an overhaul to Pier 17’s shopping center.

More recently, in an effort to speed the Seaport’s recovery, the city has made a tremendous effort incorporating their SEE / CHANGE marketing campaign to bring business and patronage back to the area.  This campaign will host the Seaport Music Festival Fridays throughout June; a film series called “Front Row Cinema” during July and August {you can see the screen at the far end of the picnic tables pictured at right}; and currently in full swing – Smorgasbar – another offshoot of Brooklyn Flea’s food vendors where you can get Asia Dog‘s amazing Bulgogi Burger (pictured left); not to mention the seasonal Fulton Stall Market and the family friendly Beekman Beer Garden complete with sand and ping pong tables.  This See / Change campaign has been revitalizing efforts using similar shipping containers as they had in Brooklyn’s DeKalb Market to house the retail shops and food vendors. South Street Seaport has been a staple and a long standing historical area for commerce to NYC.  With, of course, the annual River to River Festival there are so many ways to bring culture and consumption to your life south of Canal Street. If you’re looking for some food, some drinks or some free entertainment, please please please don’t hesitate to head downtown. It is so important to keep this historical neighborhood vibrant and healthy!