South Street Seaport

Lately i'm having a fascination with the South Street Seaport area, a little scared of the tourist crowd, right next block, but really well impressed with the area over all. I spoke to an agent who know the area really well and told me that it's a very tight knight community, and wondering if anyone is willing to share his or her experience with the neighborhood. Over all my main concern is that the "community" may be a little too conservative for me (i'm european and in creative field) Also- Not a big fan of children and i noticed the "Blue School" Any information is appreciated, Thanks!