Irish Attractions in New York

There are several Irish attractions in New York. The Irish settled across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, so they’ve had a considerable influence. Many parts of the Bronx and Queens were also known for having large Irish communities. However, Hell’s Kitchen had the largest overall. Irish New Yorkers are now considered to be one of the many different cultures which contribute to the metropolitan giant that is New York City.

Irish Attractions in New York

Irish Americans are still a prominent ethnic community in New York, so there are ample opportunities to learn more about the Irish influence in New York City. If you’d like to learn more about Irish history and culture in New York, I’ve listed some of my recommended places below. Don’t forget to download my free Eric’s New York App to discover these places in the city!

1. Irish Famine Memorial

   The Irish Famine Memorial in New York is located at Battery Park, overlooking the Hudson River. It’s a homage to Irish history, where visitors can pay respects to the famine and reflect upon its connections to the world today. It’s located at the corner of Vesey Street and North End Avenue in the Battery Park neighbourhood.

   The memorial is built on Irish limestone, the Irish Hunger Memorial was built over the course of a year in 2001. It consists of a small, rugged landscape with various species of native Irish plants, and walls made of stones from each of Ireland’s 32 counties. It gives a preview into the beauty of Ireland, and also the haunting history.

2. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

   St. Patrick’s Cathedral is considered to be an important landmark for the Irish in New York City. Due to its amazing architecture, it’s the largest Gothic Catholic cathedral in the US. If you’d like to visit, you can call in at any time when the doors are open.

   Also, anyone can attend a service. Services are held daily and everyone is welcome. Of course, if you’re visiting, you have to be quiet and mindful of your surroundings.

   

3. Pier 54

   Originally, Pier 58 served as the final port of call for the Titanic. Sadly, this pier has been consumed by Chelsea Piers, so there are no visible remains of it. However, the last remains of Pier 54 still stand as a reminder of the unfortunate wreck. Pier 54 is located near 14th Street near the Meatpacking District. Here, you’ll find the rusting arch of the dock reading “Cunard-White Star”.

   

4. Titanic Memorial

   The Titanic Memorial Lighthouse and Park are located at the entrance to the South Street Seaport Museum. The memorial itself is a 60-foot-tall lighthouse built in memory of those lost on board the Titanic, whereas the park was built around it.

   The surrounding area of the memorial is South Street Seaport, it is worthwhile exploring the neighbourhood. It’s a nice area of New York to visit, with quaint cobblestone streets and a waterfront.

   

5. Live Traditional Irish Music

   If you would like a good night out while enjoying a few drinks, I’d definitely recommend checking out some live Irish music. Irish trad sessions (or ‘trad seisiuns’ in Irish!) are informal gatherings of musicians playing traditional Irish music. These are often held in cosy Irish bars, but don’t be fooled! Things liven up once the music starts playing and the drinks start flowing.

   I recommend checking out the famous Slainte Irish Bar in the Bowery neighbourhood; they have a session every Tuesday night. Alternatively, Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar is also a great spot for a few drinks with live entertainment 7 nights a week. If you prefer a quieter, laid-back vibe then stop by McSorley’s Old Ale House for a pint of its own famous, self-brewed ale.

   

6. Irish Arts Center

   The Irish Arts Center is a New York-based arts and cultural centre that focuses on building communities with audiences and artists from all backgrounds. There are lots of performances, presentations and cultural exhibitions that tell the Irish story, alongside dozens of classes per week in the Irish language, history, music, and dance.

   If you’re looking to expand your cultural knowledge, it’s worth checking the schedule online.

7. American Irish Historical Society

   The American Irish Historical Society is a centre of Irish culture and knowledge located on Fifth Avenue. It holds a range of cultural events such as concerts, plays, exhibitions, and films. It also holds an impressive library with more than 10,000 books, the most complete collection of American Irish history and literature in the United States!

   If you’re looking to connect with your Irish roots or you enjoy learning more about American Irish History, a visit to this museum might be something to add to your to-do list.