February 21–25 | 12pm, 2pm, 4pm | Wavertree | Free
Looking for family-friendly activities to enjoy while New York City public schools are closed for Mid-Winter Recess? The Seaport Museum is offering extended open days that each include expanded tours that teach you how to raise the sail on our historic 1885 tall ship, Wavertree.
Bring your family and friends to participate in a hands-on tour that will transport you and your kids into the fascinating world of 19th century sailors. In addition to getting to raise the sail, the tour will also show the young people in your life how sailors worked and lived aboard a 19th century cargo sailing ship—from the captain to the ship’s officers, cooks, and crew.
On your visit, you will explore the main deck that features the newly restored forecastle, where the crew bunked; the galley, where meals were prepared; the saloon, which acted as the captain’s living room and the ship’s office in port; and the quarterdeck, where you can man the helm, turn the ships wheel, and learn about the capstan. You will also get a look into the vast cargo hold, which stored bulk cargo on Wavertree’s many journeys to distant ports around the globe during her 24-year sailing career.
Advanced registration is required for sail raising tours as space is limited. All children must be accompanied by an adult; maximum four children per adult. Strollers cannot be brought onboard. Registration is required for each participating child and adult.
Sail raisings will take place outdoors on the deck rain or shine. Grab a coat and come enjoy this fresh air experience at the Seaport Museum. Extended open days will also include indoor activities, scroll down to learn more and plan your family’s visit.
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Extend Your Visit
Looking for a full day of activities? These tours are offered as part of the Museum’s special Mid-Winter Recess open hours: Wed, Feb 21 to Sun, Feb 25 from 11am–5pm. There’s more to see at the Museum when you take advantage of Pay What You Wish General Admission! Make sure to reserve your timed spot on a guided tour of the 1908 Lightship Ambrose and visit the Museum’s introduction galleries at 12 Fulton Street as well as the letterpress print shop, Bowne & Co. at 211 Water Street. Current exhibitions tell the story of how the Seaport and South Street shaped New York, and how First Class and Third Class passengers traveled aboard early 20th century ocean liners.
Furthermore, all of the family-friendly activities below will be offered from Wednesday, February 21, to Sunday, February 25. Advanced registration is not required for the following, but as you plan your visit, consider these options to further enhance your experience at the Seaport Museum.
Meet the Hermit Crab
1–2pm, 3–4pm | 12 Fulton Street | Free with General Admission
Enrich your visit to the Seaport Museum’s Exploring Our Waters with Eric Carle discovery room by meeting a Hermit Crab! Huge immersive murals bring families into Carle’s book A House for Hermit Crab and the cargo-ship adventures of 10 Little Rubber Ducks. In addition to meeting a crab, visitors will enjoy driving ferries on a giant play-table and learning about cargo ships through the eyes of a rubber duck—all while exploring Carle’s use of color and pattern.
This activity is designed specifically for children aged 2–7 and their adults and is free with General Admission. No additional registration required. Stop by anytime between 1–2pm, 3–4pm, on February 21–25, to participate.
Her-story in Motion
11am–4:30pm | 12 Fulton Street | Free with General Admission
Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the her-story of notable women from around the South Street Seaport Historic District. During your visit, stop by the introduction galleries at 12 Fulton Street to create your own movable craft inspired by these women. Learn about the lives of several women and then bring them to life by coloring and assembling your own paper doll.
This activity is free with General Admission. No additional registration required. Stop by anytime from 11am-4:30pm, on February 21–25, to participate.
Tall Ship Wavertree
Wavertree, built in 1885 was operated for many years as a cargo ship sailing around the world.