The past of New York is always close to the southern tip of Manhattan. From the legacy of Dutch settlers to the Al-Qaeda terrorist attacks in 2001, it remains a place at the forefront of the human story. Go with your own guide on a journey around the city’s historic heart.

* Learn about New Amsterdam in the **Historic District** of New York 
* See the best financial sights of Lower Manhattan, including **Wall Street** and the **New York Stock Exchange** 
* Visit the **National 9/11 Memorial** and see how the tragic events of 2001 are remembered

**America: Humble Beginnings and Financial Power** 
Your tour starts with the unpretentious tale of the early settlers to the city, from a sleepy Dutch trading post to the dazzling rise of the world's busiest financial capital. You will have the pleasure of visiting Stone Street in the Historic District before moving north, just as the settlers did.

As you make your way through Wall Street you will discover how an 18th century street bazaar would eventually become a center for global commerce. Your expert local guide will give you valuable behind the scenes insight into some of the world’s most powerful financial institutions, as you walk by New York Stock Exchange and Federal Hall. Here you will see the spot where George Washington was inaugurated and enjoy the handsome Federal Reserve. There will also be a chance to pop into Trinity Church, which has roots dating back to 1697.

**A Moving Memorial** 
At the National 9/11 Memorial your guide will share with you the history of the World Trade Center, discuss the tragic events of 9/11, and walk you through the Memorial’s design. The area formerly known as 'Ground Zero' is now the site of a moving memorial and has indeed become an important historic landmark. Next to it is the rebuilt One World Trade Center. Often referred to as Freedom Tower, it stretches 1776 feet above the ground.

Here your knowledgeable guide will tell you of the events leading up to the untimely destruction of the towers, as well as sharing some of the heart-wrenching stories of the families, survivors and 9/11 heroes. You will also visit St. Paul's Chapel, that miraculously survived the 9/11 attack.