This petite museum of early American history and culture is most famous for the Long Room, in which George Washington made his historic farewell to his soldiers at the end of the American Revolution, but it also houses rotating exhibits such as "Colonists, Revolutionaries, Builders: Freemasons in America." Built in 1907, this exact replica of the original 1717 tavern is nevertheless a wonderful example of New York's pre-Revolutionary architectural style.
One of the best ways to experience Fraunces Tavern is to dine there, just like George Washington did. After a million-dollar renovation, the restaurant reopened in 2001, and serves lunch and dinner daily except Sunday. The tavern has been painstakingly recreated and the fare significantly upscaled since the Revolutionary War days -- as have entree prices (lunch $18-$20, dinner $18-$30). The fare is mainly American, of course, but the menu includes some West Indian dishes in honor of 18th-century restaurateur Samuel Fraunces. You can also stop by to soak in the historic ambience over a cocktail in the bar.
54 Pearl St.Phone: 212/425-1778.Open: Mon-Fri 10am-4:45pm. Restaurant open Mon-Fri 6:30am-9:30pm (last seating); Sat noon-5pm (tavern/bar area only) and 5-9:30pm (dining room).Admission $3 adults, $2 students and seniors, free for children under 6.Subway: N, R to Whitehall St.; 2, 3 to Wall St.; 4, 5 to Bowling Green.
