9/11 Memorial & Museum Tickets » 9/11 Memorial

9/11 Memorial: Explore the Meaningful Tribute to Those Lost

The 9/11 Memorial in New York City serves as a heartfelt tribute to the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as well as the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. The Memorial consists of two large reflecting pools, each set in the footprints of the Twin Towers that once stood proudly as symbols of global commerce. The names of the victims are etched into bronze parapets surrounding the pools, creating a space for reflection and remembrance. This memorial stands as a testament to the enduring strength and unity that emerged from the nation’s darkest day, inviting visitors to reflect on the impact of the attacks and to honor the courage of those who responded.

What is the 9/11 Memorial?

The 9/11 Memorial is a place of remembrance and reflection located at the site of the former World Trade Center complex in New York City. The Memorial features two large reflecting pools, each nearly an acre in size, set within the footprints of the Twin Towers that were destroyed on September 11, 2001.

The pools are surrounded by bronze parapets engraved with the names of nearly 3,000 victims from the 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. The memorial offers a serene environment where visitors can pay their respects and contemplate the tragic events that unfolded on that day, making it one of the most poignant landmarks in the city.

What does the 9/11 Memorial stand for?

9-11 Memorial Memorial Glade Learn More — Courtesy of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

The 9/11 Memorial stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and unity of the people impacted by the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. The memorial symbolizes the nation's collective grief and the individual sacrifices made during those events, as well as the enduring spirit of those who survived and those who risked their lives to save others.

The twin reflecting pools, with their cascading waterfalls, convey a sense of both loss and renewal, while the surrounding inscriptions ensure that the names of the victims are forever remembered. It's a place for reflection, healing, and honoring the legacy of those who perished.

Why visit the 9/11 Memorial?

9-11 Memorial Highlights North Pool — Courtesy of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

Visiting the 9/11 Memorial offers an opportunity to reflect on a pivotal moment in modern history and to honor the memory of those who lost their lives. The memorial provides a serene and contemplative space where visitors can connect with the profound sense of loss and resilience that characterizes the site.

It's also a place to appreciate the extraordinary bravery shown by first responders and ordinary people alike. Beyond its emotional impact, the memorial is an architectural and artistic achievement, set within a revitalized urban landscape that symbolizes hope and renewal. Visiting the 9/11 Memorial is not only a way to pay respects but also to understand the broader impact of the events on the city, the nation, and the world.

The Design Competition for the 9/11 Memorial

The design for the 9/11 Memorial was selected through an international competition, launched in 2003. It received over 5,000 submissions from architects and artists around the world. The chosen design, “Reflecting Absence,” by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, stood out for its powerful and contemplative tribute to the victims and events of September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993.

How was the 9/11 Memorial designed?

The 9/11 Memorial, designed by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, honors victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Its twin reflecting pools, each about an acre, sit in the footprints of the Twin Towers and feature North America’s largest man-made waterfalls, symbolizing visible absence.

Selected from over 5,000 competition submissions, Arad's "Reflecting Absence" design is a serene tribute to loss and remembrance. Bronze parapets inscribed with 2,983 victims’ names surround the pools, while swamp white oak trees create a tranquil space. The memorial captures both the void of loss and the resilience of New York City.

The 9/11 Memorial in Pictures

Reflecting Absence Pools
Twin pools set within the footprints of the original towers, honoring each life lost with engraved names.

Survivor Tree
A symbol of resilience and renewal, this pear tree survived the attacks and stands tall amidst the Memorial.

Memorial Glade
A solemn path dedicated to rescue and recovery workers impacted by 9/11-related illnesses.

Ground Zero New York City Plan Your Visit

North and South Tower Footprints
Marking the foundations of the World Trade Center towers, this space invites quiet reflection.

Name Panels
Bronze panels inscribed with nearly 3,000 names, allowing visitors a tactile connection to those remembered.

Where is the 9/11 Memorial located?

Location of the 9/11 Memorial:
The 9/11 Memorial's address is 180 Greenwich St, New York. | Get Directions

What are the 9/11 Memorial Opening Times?
The 9/11 Memorial is open from Monday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 8:PM.

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9/11 Memorial & Museum: Entry Ticket

Highlights

Stand beside the reflecting pools, where North America’s largest manmade waterfalls echo with the profound stories of the past.

Gain access to “In Memoriam,” an exhibition dedicated to the victims, sharing their personal stories and memories.

Explore the Foundation Hall, home to the monumental Last Column and artifacts, symbolizing resilience and endurance.

View authentic artifacts and hear personal stories of survival and recovery, providing a comprehensive understanding of the tragic events.

Witness the Survivor Tree, a living symbol of hope and resilience that withstood the attacks and continues to grow.

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Ground Zero All-Access Guided Tour + 9/11 Museum

Highlights

Start with a 90-minute guided walking tour led by a local New Yorker with personal connections to the events of 9/11, providing detailed narratives and historical context.

Visit St. Paul’s Chapel, New York City’s oldest public building still in continuous use, which served as a refuge for first responders during the aftermath.

Explore The Oculus, the impressive structure of the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, an architectural marvel that also serves as a shopping center.

Learn about the bravery and sacrifices of the firefighters with a visit to the FDNY Memorial Wall.

Conclude the tour at the Survivor Tree, a poignant symbol of resilience that survived the attacks and continues to grow today.

Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial Pools, the largest manmade waterfalls in North America, which honor the lives lost on that tragic day.

Skip the line and explore the 9/11 Museum at your own pace, with exhibits that provide a deep understanding of the events of September 11 and their global impact.

Ground Zero All-Access Guided Tour + One World Observatory

Highlights

Start with a 90-minute guided walking tour led by a local New Yorker who shares personal connections and detailed narratives about 9/11.

Visit St. Paul’s Chapel, New York City’s oldest public building still in use, which served as a sanctuary for first responders.

Explore The Oculus, the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, an architectural masterpiece and shopping center.

Hear stories of bravery and sacrifice at the FDNY Memorial Wall.

See the resilient Survivor Tree, which survived the 9/11 attacks and continues to thrive.

Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial Pools, the largest manmade waterfalls in North America, honoring those who lost their lives.

Conclude your tour with a visit to the top of One World Trade Center, offering unparalleled views of New York City and beyond.

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New York Sightseeing Flex Pass

Highlights

Access up to 100+ attractions and experiences across New York City, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Top of the Rock.

Choose your own adventure with flexible options to visit 2, 3, 5, 7, or 10 attractions within 30 days of activation.

Save up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets for attractions and tours.

Skip the hassle with contactless entry at many participating attractions.

Discover hidden gems with walking tours, harbor cruises, and unique NYC experiences included in the pass.

FAQs about 9/11 Memorial

What is the significance of the 9/11 Memorial in New York City?

The 9/11 Memorial is a place of tribute and reflection, honoring the nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, as well as the six victims of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. It serves as a national symbol of remembrance and resilience.

Why was the 9/11 Memorial built, and when was it completed?

The 9/11 Memorial was constructed to commemorate those who perished in the 9/11 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. It was completed and opened to the public on September 11, 2011, the tenth anniversary of the attacks.

How can visitors pay their respects at the 9/11 Memorial?

Visitors can pay their respects by viewing the twin reflecting pools, which bear the names of the victims, and by spending time in the serene surroundings of the memorial plaza. The setting encourages reflection and remembrance.

What are the hours of operation for the 9/11 Memorial in NYC?

The 9/11 Memorial is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, allowing ample time for visitors to pay their respects.

Is there an admission fee to visit the 9/11 Memorial?

There is no admission fee to visit the 9/11 Memorial. However, to visit the 9/11 Museum you will need to purchase tickets in advance.

Can visitors leave personal tributes or mementos at the 9/11 Memorial?

Visitors are welcome to leave respectful tributes, such as flowers or notes, at the 9/11 Memorial. This gesture honors the memory of the victims.

Are there guided tours available at the 9/11 Memorial?

Yes, the 9/11 Memorial offers guided tours that provide deeper insight into the memorial's design, history, and the events it commemorates.

What is the meaning behind the design and symbolism of the 9/11 Memorial?

The 9/11 Memorial features two reflecting pools where Twin Towers originally stood, symbolizing "absence made visible." The design, with its cascading waterfalls and inscribed names, represents loss, remembrance, and resilience.