Standing proudly along Pier 16 on the East River are the South Street Seaport Museum's most dramatic "exhibits" -- the largest fleet of historic vessels in America. Come aboard and explore the exhibits, decks, cabins and galleys of the Peking, a 1911 sailing ship. Take a fascinating guided tour of the Wavertree, a square-rigger commissioned 120 years ago. Inspect the Ambrose, a lighthouse ship that once marked the entrance to New York Harbor, and take a harbor sail onboard the Museum's historic schooner Pioneer.

When it's time to bring your family ashore, you can take a guided tour of the Belgian-block streets of the South Street Seaport Historic District, 11 square blocks virtually unchanged since the days when South St was the center of the city's port. It's here, inside the Federal-style brick buildings of Schmermerhorn Row (still adorned with graffiti from the 1800s), and historic Water St, that you'll discover the Museum's fascinating galleries. You'll want to check out all the eye-opening exhibits and events, including the permanent exhibit on the golden age of America's floating palaces -- the luxury ocean liners of the 1900s, including a 23-foot-long model of the original Queen Mary -- and the incredible model ships and wood carvings in the Maritime Crafts Center on Pier 16. Also, don't miss the Museum's re-creation of a 19th century printing shop, Bowne & Co Stationers, at 211 Water St, where you'll find unique gifts.