Fraunces Tavern Museum

The Basics

Built in the early 18th century in what is now the Financial District, the Fraunces Tavern Museum—a bustling bar during the Revolutionary War—is said to occupy the oldest existing building in Manhattan. It was there where George Washington gave a moving farewell address to his officers, and peace talks with the British took place after the war. Nowadays, visitors can browse thousands of letters, artworks, furnishings, and more from that era in history.

The museum offers permanent and temporary exhibits, and hosts a range of events, from guided tours and evening lectures to annual Flag Day celebrations and reenactments of Washington’s address. To save time at the entry, book your admission ticket online in advance.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Most visitors spend one to two hours at the Fraunces Tavern Museum.

• The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

Located on Pearl Street in the Financial District, the Fraunces Tavern Museum is easy to reach by subway. Take the 1 train to South Ferry, the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green, or the N, R, or W train to Whitehall Street. Multiple bus lines and ferries (including the Staten Island Ferry) also serve the area.

When to Get There

The museum is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Hours are Monday through Friday from 12pm to 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. The attached Fraunces Tavern restaurant and bar is open daily from 11:30am to 2:30am.

The Fraunces Tavern

Part of the same complex as the museum, the Fraunces Tavern is an atmospheric restaurant that’s been in operation since 1762. Featuring numerous dining rooms complete with heritage architecture and fixtures, the tavern is celebrated for its whiskey selection and its beers made by the Porterhouse Brewing Company.

Ways to explore

Plan on spending at least an hour or two at the Fraunces Tavern Museum. It consists of five historic buildings, eight galleries, and about 400 objects on display from the museum’s vast collection. Temporary exhibits change, but all focus on some aspect of Colonial America or the American Revolutionary War. Guided tours are offered once on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. These tours are complimentary with admission, and advance registration is not available. The Fraunces Tavern has multiple bars (including an upstairs piano bar with live music) and serves hearty pub fare. Allow at least another hour for a meal or cocktail.

Accessibility

An accessible entrance is located on Water Street.

Age limits

None; children 5 years old and under are admitted for free.

What to pack

Grab headphones so you can listen to Tavern Talks, the official Fraunces Tavern Museum podcast, on your phone as you wander the exhibit.

What to wear

Powdered wig, breeches, waistcoat

Not allowed

Shouting British anti-revolutionary slogans at top volume

Amenities

Gift shop, on-site restaurant and bar

Address

Fraunces Tavern Museum is located in Lower Manhattan’s Financial District, between Wall Street and Battery Park. It’s a busy area with lots to see, including the New York Stock Exchange and Trinity Church.

Driving

While it’s possible to reach the Financial District by car, parking can be hard to find, and public transportation is more convenient. A good compromise is getting dropped off in a taxi or a rideshare.

Public transportation

The nearest subway stops are Whitehall St/South Ferry on the R, W, Bowling Green on the 4, 5, South Ferry on the 1, or Broad Street on the J, Z. You can also take the M20 or M55 bus to Staten Island Ferry Terminal/South Ferry.

Best times to visit

Morning is quietest at the museum, but Happy Hour and beyond is the best time for visiting the tavern. You’ll find plenty of cocktail specials, plus live music each night. The museum also hosts a monthly evening lecture series.

Best days to visit

Saturday and Sunday if you’re interested in taking the free guided tour; the Financial District is typically less crowded on weekends than work workdays.

Best months to visit

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are when New York City is most pleasant, but the indoor Fraunces Tavern Museum is a great cold-weather activity.

Special events

Each year on February 13, the Fraunces Tavern Museum holds a Birthday Ball in honor of George Washington. You can purchase tickets online in advance. On Flag Day, June 14, there are celebrations and an open house.