Are You Lower Manhattan’s Next Explorer In Chief?

Produced in partnership with Alliance for Downtown New York.

George Washington. Alexander Hamilton. A lot of gutsy leaders have famously made Lower Manhattan their stomping grounds.

Are you next?

The Alliance for Downtown New York is conducting a nationwide search for an Explorer In Chief, who will come to tell the story of Lower Manhattan all through summer 2020. The Lower Manhattan Explorer In Chief Dream Job contest is your chance to spend three thrilling months, from June 1 to August 30, in New York City as Lower Manhattan’s dedicated storyteller. You’ll live rent-free in extended-stay digs at a beautifully furnished Sonder apartment just off Wall Street — and get paid to show the world the neighborhood through your eyes, through stories, videos, and social media.

Yes, this is really happening.

And someone will have to win.

With world-class attractions and cuisine, and hundreds of shops, cafes and bars, Lower Manhattan today is both historic and contemporary, bustling and intimate. And the story of this neighborhood continues to unfold. As Explorer In Chief, you'll have time to follow your own storytelling instinct and access behind-the-scenes and VIP experiences custom-made for you.

You'll see the city from many angles — from sunset cruises on the water along the iconic New York City skyline to and secret crows-nest views in skyscrapers. You’ll eat New York City street food and Michelin-starred feasts. You’ll enjoy weekend staycations at five-star hotels and drinks at local dive bars. And you’ll have all the tools you need to discover Lower Manhattan’s newest hidden gems and quirkiest corners, capturing it on camera as part of your once-in-a-lifetime Lower Manhattan summer.

The winning Explorer will be charismatic and comfortable as the center of attention but will also keep in mind that the location is the star of the story. You have until March 15 at 11:59 p.m. ET to apply at www.explorerinchief.com.

How to Apply

1. Make an original video that is 60 seconds or less.

2. Upload it to YouTube.

3. Paste the YouTube link in the entry form at ExplorerInChief.com.

Still have questions? Visit dreamjob@downtownny.com.

Check Out Your New Summer Digs

The winner will spend the summer here.

Good luck!