We normally associate New York with Wall Street, yellow cabs and impressive skyscrapers. But the Big Apple also shares a history of survival and rebirth, which is best exemplified in the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in Lower Manhattan. Situated on the exact footprint of the Twin Towers, it has become an iconic NYC institution that everyone should visit at least once in their lives.
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Background on the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Following the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the Memorial & Museum was conceived to remember the victims of the attacks and honor the people that risked their lives to save others. This landmark is operated by a non-profit institution, whose main mission is to honor the victims, preserve history and educate visitors on the profound impact these events had on NYC residents.
What to expect when you visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Designed by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, the Memorial serves as a symbol of remembrance and resilience. It features two reflecting pools, surrounded by swamp white oak trees, with the largest man-made waterfalls in North America. You’ll find the names of the nearly 3000 victims inscribed around the pools; on the person’s birthday, a white rose is placed at their name while yellow roses are placed at the names of veterans in their honor on Veteran’s Day.
The Museum pavilion was officially opened in 2014. Its ramped entrance serves as a metaphor for bridging the memory of the past and the future promise of restoration. The rest of the spaces blend modern design elements with artifacts and authentic remnants of the World Trade Center complex, such as the Retaining Wall.
Visitors should not skip the Historical Exhibition and the Memorial Exhibition, which respectively offer a detailed description of the events, display poignant and powerful imagery, and tell the stories of the lives lost during the attacks. The exhibits recount sad days in the city’s history so prepare to be deeply moved. But most importantly, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a place where family and friends of the victims come to pay their respects and connect with their loved ones, so please remember to behave accordingly.
Where is the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and how to get there
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is situated on eight acres of the 16-acre World Trade Center complex at 180 Greenwich Street. Depending on your starting point, you can reach the Lower Manhattan site by subway, bus, ferry to the nearest terminal at Battery Park City on Vesey Street, or PATH Train if you’re coming from New Jersey.
What else can you do when you visit?
Besides permanent exhibitions, you can also book a 9/11 Museum Workshop Tour. Get exclusive access to the famous photos from FDNY’s Gary Marlon Suson. He was the official and only permitted Ground Zero photographer during the nine-month search for the missing people. The exhibition displays what the firefighters, police officers and frontline workers went through during the winter of 2001. Additionally, you can listen to personal narratives of different 9/11 survivors with BOSE audio and even swing by the One World Observatory.
If you’re planning a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, it’s best to book your tickets in advance. Walk through the Museum’s permanent and new exhibits and explore the stories of loss, hope and reparation. It is open Wednesday through Monday from 9 am to 7 pm.
FAQs
Is the 9/11 Memorial & Museum free?
While the Memorial is free and open to the public every day of the week, you need a ticket to access the museum. Admission to the museum is only free for active and retired U.S. Military members with valid ID or children aged six and under.
However, the Museum offers free entry on Mondays from 5:30 pm to 7 pm with prior reservation.
How much does a ticket cost?
Unless you’re eligible for free admission or plan to visit the Museum on Monday afternoon, you will need to purchase a ticket.
- Adult (18-64): $33
- Children (7-12): $21
- Reduced tickets (for seniors, college students, veterans, police officers): $27
What is the significance of the Survivor Tree at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum?
The Survivor Tree is a Callery pear tree discovered severely damaged at Ground Zero in October 2001. Through the care of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, it recovered, encapsulating the collective experience of survival and hope.
Who is chairman of the Memorial & Museum?
Former NYC mayor, entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael R. Bloomberg has served as the chairman of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum since its conception. During his terms, he played a crucial role in rebuilding the wrecked neighborhood and helping the people at Ground Zero.
A trip to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is both an emotional and educational experience. The city landmark is a symbol of loss and resilience that stands as a piece of NYC history. Don’t forget to check it out on your next outing in Lower Manhattan.