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World Trade Center

4.8
·11k reviews·New York, United States

A powerful symbol of resilience and remembrance, featuring the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the iconic One World Observatory.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful reflection

CrowdLow
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World Trade Center - film > digital > upscaled in ai shot by yan ji

World Trade Center

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A powerful symbol of resilience and remembrance, featuring the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the iconic One World Observatory.

4.8
(11k reviews)

"A breathtaking symbol of resilience and renewal, One World Trade Center combines stunning modern architecture with deep historical meaning."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Observatory Tickets Early

Secure your spot at One World Observatory in advance to avoid long queues and guarantee your preferred time slot. :ticket:

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the Memorial, Museum, and Observatory. :clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

9/11 Memorial & Museum

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Ground Zero

Twin reflecting pools honor victims, with a powerful museum detailing the events of 9/11.

One World Observatory

One World Observatory

One World Trade Center

Panoramic 360° views of New York City from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

The Oculus

The Oculus

World Trade Center Transportation Hub

Striking architectural masterpiece serving as a transit hub, shopping center, and public space.

11 Tears Memorial

11 Tears Memorial

American Express Tower, 200 Vesey Street

A free, public memorial honoring the victims of 9/11 with a poignant water feature.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Remembrance

The World Trade Center site is a place of profound remembrance. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Consider the emotional weight of the site before bringing young children.

Timing Your Visit

To avoid peak crowds at One World Observatory, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful reflection
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour views from observatory
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
City lights sparkle beautifully
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

World Trade Center Today #newyork #911memorial #NYC #🇦🇱
@8ulq1z4
4.4M likes • 63M views

Book Observatory Tickets Early

Secure your spot at One World Observatory in advance to avoid long queues and guarantee your preferred time slot. :ticket:

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the Memorial, Museum, and Observatory. :clock:

My Twin Towers sweater that I knitted before 9/11, last imagining what would happen #twintowers #worldtradecenter #newyorkcity #NYC
@sambarsky
4.2M likes • 12.3M views
Gary Pollard captured this video on #September11, 2001. He captured a unique shot of the South Tower (wtc 2) collapsing at 9:59 a.m. In #lowerManhattan After burning for 56 minutes, the South Tower collapsed in 10 seconds at 9:59 a.m. Shock waves from the collapse were so strong, seismic recording devices at Columbia University's observation station 21 miles north of the World Trade Center logged...
twintowers__nyc
1.6M likes • 26M views

Dress Respectfully

Remember this is a memorial site. Dress modestly and be mindful of your behavior. :pray:

Consider The Summit

For a different observation deck experience, The Summit at One Vanderbilt is recommended by some visitors. :cityscape:

Ore 08:46, un aereo Boeing 767, partito dall’Aeroporto Internazionale Logan di Boston alle 7:59 e diretto a Los Angeles con a bordo 76 passeggeri, 11 membri dell’equipaggio e 5 dirottatori. Gli attentatori fecero schiantare il volo contro la Torre Nord del World Trade Center (ricostruzione degli ultimi 49 secondi del volo American Airlines 11…)💔💔💔 #twintowers #torrigemelle #11settembre #11septemb...
11_settembre_2001_102_minuti
13.2K likes • 566.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Observatory Tickets Early

Secure your spot at One World Observatory in advance to avoid long queues and guarantee your preferred time slot. :ticket:

Allow Ample Time

Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the Memorial, Museum, and Observatory. :clock:

Dress Respectfully

Remember this is a memorial site. Dress modestly and be mindful of your behavior. :pray:

Consider The Summit

For a different observation deck experience, The Summit at One Vanderbilt is recommended by some visitors. :cityscape:

Free to Visit Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial pools and the 11 Tears Memorial are free to visit and open to the public. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the World Trade Center site as a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is described as deeply moving and essential for remembrance, while One World Observatory offers breathtaking, unforgettable views. The architectural beauty of The Oculus is also a frequent highlight.

"Visiting the World Trade Center is both moving and breathtaking. The memorial is powerful and deeply emotional, a place of reflection and respect. The One World Observatory offers stunning 360° views of New York City truly unforgettable. The entire experience is beautifully designed, meaningful, and inspiring. A must-visit landmark that captures both the history and the spirit of resilience"

Gustavo Yuri

"A breathtaking symbol of resilience and renewal. One World Trade Center combines stunning modern architecture with deep historical meaning. The observation deck offers panoramic views that stretch for miles—absolutely unforgettable. The building and surrounding area, including the 9/11 Memorial, are both powerful and beautifully designed. A place that moves you, inspires you, and reminds you of the strength of the human spirit."

Marcin Kisielewski

"A remarkable testament to resilience and rebirth, One World Trade Center blends striking contemporary design with profound historical significance. Its observation deck delivers sweeping, unforgettable views that span for miles. Both the tower and the surrounding 9/11 Memorial are thoughtfully and powerfully crafted. It’s a place that stirs emotion, sparks inspiration, and stands as a powerful reminder of human strength and perseverance.its worth to visit on NyC tour ."

Loves travel

What People Like

Powerful 9/11 Memorial
Stunning observatory views
Inspiring resilience

What People Dislike

Museum can be intense

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The World Trade Center is easily accessible via public transportation. The PATH train stops directly at the WTC station. Numerous subway lines also serve the area, including the E train at World Trade Center, and the A, C, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, R, W lines at nearby stations like Cortlandt Street, Fulton Street, and Chambers Street. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity of the World Trade Center. However, parking in Lower Manhattan can be expensive. It's often more convenient and cost-effective to use public transport. TikTok

Depending on your starting point, walking to the World Trade Center can be feasible. It's a pleasant walk from areas like Wall Street or Battery Park, offering scenic views of the city. TikTok

From Brooklyn, you can take various subway lines like the A, C, F, or R trains, transferring to lines that go directly to the World Trade Center station. The ferry is also an option for a scenic route. TikTok

Yes, there are bike lanes and paths in Lower Manhattan that can lead you to the World Trade Center complex. You can also use Citi Bike stations located nearby. :bike:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the 9/11 Memorial pools and the 11 Tears Memorial is free. Tickets for the One World Observatory are required and vary in price, with options for general admission, express passes, and special packages. The 9/11 Museum also has an admission fee. Booking online in advance is recommended. TikTok

No, the outdoor 9/11 Memorial, including the reflecting pools, is free to visit and open to the public. However, the 9/11 Museum requires a paid admission ticket. TikTok

Tickets for One World Observatory can be purchased online through the official One World Observatory website, or at the ticket office on-site. Purchasing online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and potentially avoid queues. Reddit

The 9/11 Memorial is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The 9/11 Museum has specific operating hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM, with last admission an hour before closing. One World Observatory hours vary seasonally but are generally from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Always check the official websites for the most current hours. TikTok

Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and military personnel for the One World Observatory and the 9/11 Museum. Check the respective official websites for details on eligibility and how to apply for discounts. Some city passes may also include access.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The complex includes the poignant 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the soaring One World Trade Center with its observatory, the architecturally stunning Oculus transportation hub, and various surrounding buildings and parks. It's a place of remembrance, resilience, and modern urban design. TikTokReddit

The 9/11 Museum is a deeply moving and somber experience. While it's educational, it contains graphic content and sensitive material. Many parents opt to visit without young children or wait until they are older to fully grasp the historical context. Reddit

The views from One World Observatory are breathtaking, offering 360-degree panoramic vistas of New York City, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey, and beyond. On a clear day, you can see for miles. TikTokReddit

The Oculus is the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, designed by Santiago Calatrava. It's an architectural marvel with a distinctive winged shape, housing retail shops, restaurants, and serving as a major transit center. Reddit

Yes, the 9/11 Memorial pools themselves offer a serene space for reflection. Liberty Park, located above the museum, also provides a peaceful respite with views of the memorial and the city. The 11 Tears Memorial is another quiet spot. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the World Trade Center complex offers a variety of dining options. The Oculus houses numerous restaurants and cafes, ranging from quick bites to sit-down meals. One World Trade Center also has dining facilities. Reddit

You can find a diverse range of cuisines, including American, Italian, Asian, and more. Options include fast-casual eateries, delis, coffee shops, and sit-down restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. Reddit

While dining within the immediate complex can be pricier, you can find more affordable options a short walk away in the Financial District or nearby neighborhoods. Food trucks are also sometimes present in the area. TikTok

Generally, you can bring your own food and drinks to the outdoor memorial areas for personal consumption. However, restrictions may apply within the museum or observatory buildings. It's best to check their specific policies.

Absolutely. The Oculus and surrounding areas have numerous coffee shops and cafes, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a light snack while exploring the site. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic photo spots include the 9/11 Memorial pools, the exterior of the Oculus, the Freedom Tower against the skyline, and panoramic views from One World Observatory. The surrounding streets also offer great perspectives. TikTok+1

Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor 9/11 Memorial areas, but with respect. Inside the 9/11 Museum, photography is often restricted to certain areas or prohibited to maintain the solemn atmosphere. Always look for signage. TikTok

Yes, photography is highly encouraged from One World Observatory. The expansive views provide incredible opportunities for cityscape shots, especially during sunrise or sunset. Reddit

Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited in and around the World Trade Center site and much of Manhattan due to security regulations and airspace restrictions. TikTok

For dramatic cityscapes, sunrise or sunset offers beautiful lighting. Daytime provides clear views from the observatory, while evenings offer stunning city lights. The memorial is also photogenic at different times of day. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the World Trade Center with children requires careful consideration. While the 9/11 Memorial pools are generally accessible and can be a starting point for discussion, the 9/11 Museum contains graphic and sensitive content that may not be suitable for younger children. Many parents suggest waiting until children are older or focusing on the memorial aspects. Reddit

For families seeking city views without the intense historical context of the museum, One World Observatory offers a spectacular experience. Some visitors also recommend The Summit as an alternative observation deck. The Oculus is also visually engaging for children with its unique architecture. Always be prepared to answer questions honestly and age-appropriately. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Remembrance Seekers

For those deeply interested in the history and remembrance of 9/11, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is an essential visit. The museum provides an in-depth, chronological account of the events, featuring artifacts and personal testimonies that offer a profound understanding of the tragedy and its impact. TikTok+1

Beyond the museum, exploring the 9/11 Memorial pools and reading the names inscribed there is a crucial part of the experience. Consider visiting the 11 Tears Memorial for a more intimate tribute. The entire complex serves as a living testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of New York City. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The World Trade Center complex offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. One World Observatory provides unparalleled panoramic shots of the NYC skyline, especially stunning during golden hour or at night. TikTokReddit

The Oculus is a photographer's dream with its striking architectural lines and the way light plays within its structure. The 9/11 Memorial pools offer a more somber yet visually compelling subject, especially with the Freedom Tower in the background. Remember to be respectful when photographing the memorial areas. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum stands as a powerful tribute to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the 2001 and 1993 attacks on the World Trade Center. The memorial features two enormous reflecting pools, set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The names of the victims are inscribed around the parapets of these pools, creating a deeply moving space for remembrance and reflection. TikTok+1

The accompanying museum, located below ground, offers a comprehensive and often harrowing account of the events. It houses artifacts recovered from the site, personal stories from survivors and first responders, and exhibits that detail the timeline of the attacks. Visitors often describe the museum experience as profoundly emotional and impactful, serving as a vital educational resource about this pivotal moment in history. TikTok+1

It's important for visitors to approach the memorial and museum with a sense of reverence and respect. While photography is permitted in some outdoor areas, it's crucial to be mindful of the solemn nature of the site. The experience is designed to honor the lives lost and to foster a sense of unity and resilience. TikTok+1

Experiencing the Views from One World Observatory

Perched atop One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory offers unparalleled, breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City and beyond. Ascending to the observatory is an experience in itself, with interactive exhibits and a dramatic elevator ride that showcases the city's skyline as it evolved over time. Reddit

Once at the top, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas that stretch for miles. On a clear day, you can see iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the sprawling cityscape of Manhattan. The observatory features a 'Skyline Concierge' who can help identify landmarks, and interactive touch screens that provide additional information about the city's history and architecture. TikTokReddit

Many visitors recommend timing their visit for sunset or early evening to witness the city transition from day to night, with the twinkling lights creating a magical spectacle. It's a truly unforgettable perspective on New York City, offering a sense of awe and wonder. TikTok+1

The Architectural Marvel of The Oculus

The Oculus, officially known as the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, is a stunning architectural achievement designed by Santiago Calatrava. Its distinctive, wing-like structure is inspired by a bird in flight and has become an iconic symbol of the revitalized World Trade Center complex. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Oculus serves as a vital transportation hub, connecting multiple subway lines and the PATH train. It also houses a significant retail component, with a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a bustling center of activity. The sheer scale and unique design make it a popular spot for photography and a testament to modern architectural innovation. Reddit

Visitors often marvel at the interplay of light and space within The Oculus, especially on sunny days when light streams through its expansive glass and steel structure. It's a place that seamlessly blends functionality with artistic expression, offering a vibrant contrast to the solemnity of the nearby memorial. TikTok