The tragedy of September 11, 2001 has changed America forever. The human cost of terrorist attacks was 3,000 lives. The 9/11 Memorial was opened ten years later at the former location of the Twin Towers which were hit by planes. It is designed as two reflecting pools, each covering nearly an acre. The names of the ones who died back then are placed on the panels enframing the pools. The large human-made waterfalls symbolise the tears for the dead as well as the rain which will eventually wash down the sorrow. Time passes, but people come to reflect on the aftermaths and to honour those who perished on that notorious day.
A visit to 9/11 Museum which sits nearby the 9/11 Memorial brings back the horror of September 11th, 2001. You'll discover 10,000 monumental artefacts on display, listen to the intimate stories of loss and recovery of 2001 as well as 1993 attacks, and explore its global impact and continuing significance.
The Memorial is open daily from 7:30 am to 9 pm. Museum has different operating hours—Sunday to Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm (last entry at 6 pm), and Friday–Saturday from 9 am to 9 pm (last entry at 7 pm).
The site may be visited year-round, but if you prefer to have some solemn and silent time, it's better to go in the evening when crowds are less heavy. To avoid lines, we recommend pre-buying tickets and booking a tour online.
Practical info
When was the 9/11 Memorial opened?
The inauguration of the 9/11 Memorial was in 2011, a decade after the terrorist attacks occurred. The memorial is located in New York City at the site of the former World Trade Center and serves as a reminder of the events that transpired on that fateful day. Show more
Where is the 9/11 Museum located?
The 9/11 Museum, which is adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial, is situated in the borough of Manhattan in New York City. The physical address of the museum is 180 Greenwich Street. Show more
What artefacts can be found in the 9/11 Museum?
Visitors to the 9/11 Museum can observe more than 10,000 different items, including photographs, documents, and personal belongings of those affected by the tragedy. Some of the collection's highlights are concrete slabs, steel beams, personal items recovered from the rubble, and components of the hijacked planes. Multimedia installations and artistic interpretations are also featured to provide a comprehensive view of 9/11's impact. Show more
How does the Memorial symbolize the tragedy?
The 9/11 Memorial contains two sunken pools, which represent the sites where the Twin Towers once stood. The parapets that surround the pools are etched with the names of the victims, and the cascading water evokes remembrance and mourning. The tranquillity and peacefulness of the pools offer the perfect space for reflection and contemplation, serving as a poignant reminder of the tragedy of 9/11. Show more
What is the best time of the day to visit the Memorial for a calmer experience?
With over 4 million annual visitors, the 9/11 Memorial is a busy destination. Generally speaking, it is best to visit the Memorial in the evenings when it is less crowded. The nighttime visit is also an excellent opportunity to appreciate the solemnity of the Memorial and avoid the heat of the day in the summer months. Buying tickets and guided tours online is highly recommended to avoid queues. Show more
