Overview
Charging Bull is a 3,200-kilogram bronze sculpture on Broadway in the Financial District, depicting a powerful bull in full charge. It has become an unofficial symbol of Wall Street's financial optimism and American capitalism.
Highlights
- The Sculpture: Arturo Di Modica's muscular, dynamic bull in mid-charge, polished bright by millions of tourist hands touching its horns and nose for good luck.
- Photo Op: Despite its fame, the sculpture is surprisingly small when you see it in person — but the crowds surrounding it are enormous.
- Bowling Green: The bull sits at the northern tip of Bowling Green, Manhattan's oldest public park (established 1733).
History
Sculptor Arturo Di Modica spent $350,000 of his own money to create the bull as a symbol of American resilience after the 1987 stock market crash. He illegally installed it in front of the NYSE on December 15, 1989, as a guerrilla artwork.
Visitor Tips
- Early Morning: Visit before 8 AM to get photos without massive crowds surrounding the bull.
- Quick Stop: It's a 5-minute detour on the way to the Battery or Wall Street.
- Duration: 10–15 minutes.