Best of all it's free, the only form of public transportation in New York that retains that status. If you want to discover the fifth borough, disembark and explore. If not turn around, and travel back to the familiar shore. The approaching Manhattan skyline should provide a thrill down the spine of even the most jaded sightseer. Go on, have a Titanic moment.
Battery Park is one of the odder and more beautiful areas of the city.
Encompassing a city park, the World Financial Center and numerous residences, this complex testifies to the reality of civilized living in Manhattan. Start at the southern end of the park which houses a series of small gardens as well as the Museum of the Jewish Heritage. Walk north along the Esplanade and enjoy the charming and whimsical sculptures that are scattered throughout the various small side parks. The best thing to do at Battery Park however, is to scope out a bench, sit back and take a big gulp of salty, tangy harbor air. Take the D train to Grand Street, which will let you off a good ways from the heart of Chinatown but right in front of the Dragon Gate Market.