The 9/11 Memorial & Museum (officially the National September 11 Memorial & Museum) is one of New York City’s most meaningful places to visit. Located at the former World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan, it honors the 2,977 people who lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six victims of the February 26, 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Together, the outdoor memorial and underground museum preserve the stories, artifacts, and history of one of the most significant events in modern American history.
The memorial features two reflecting pools set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers, surrounded by nearly 400 swamp white oak trees that create a peaceful place for reflection. Beneath the memorial plaza, the museum displays monumental artifacts recovered from Ground Zero alongside personal stories, photographs, videos, and interactive exhibits that document the attacks, rescue efforts, recovery, and the lasting impact on New York City and the world.
The names engraved around the memorial pools are not listed alphabetically. Instead, they were carefully arranged using “meaningful adjacencies,” placing family members, friends, coworkers, and first responders together whenever possible.
Following the September 11 attacks, an international design competition selected architect Michael Arad and landscape architect Peter Walker to create the memorial. Construction began in 2006, the National September 11 Memorial opened in 2011, and the museum welcomed visitors in 2014. Whether you’re visiting New York for the first time or returning to better understand this pivotal moment in history, the memorial and museum offer one of the city’s most moving and memorable experiences.
9/11 Memorial & Museum Quick Facts
- Located at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan
- Honors the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing
- Features two reflecting pools built within the footprints of the original Twin Towers
- The names of 2,977 victims are inscribed around the memorial pools
- Home to the Survivor Tree, a symbol of resilience and recovery
- The memorial opened in 2011
- The museum opened in 2014
- More than 110,000 square feet of exhibition space
- Features artifacts, photographs, oral histories, and multimedia exhibits
- One of New York City’s most visited memorials and museums
Things to See at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- Walk around the twin reflecting memorial pools
- Read the engraved names honoring the victims
- Visit the Survivor Tree
- Explore Foundation Hall and see the Last Column
- View massive steel artifacts recovered from Ground Zero
- Experience powerful historical and memorial exhibitions
- Listen to survivor, first responder, and family member stories
- See photographs, videos, and personal artifacts documenting September 11
- Visit nearby One World Observatory
- Explore the World Trade Center campus and Oculus
Why Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum?
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum offers far more than a history lesson. It provides a thoughtful, personal look at the events of September 11 through authentic artifacts, firsthand accounts, and carefully designed exhibits that honor the victims while documenting the resilience of New York City and the nation. Many visitors consider it one of the most meaningful experiences in New York.
Perfect For
- First-time visitors to New York City
- History enthusiasts
- Older children, teens, and adults
- International visitors
- Anyone interested in understanding the events and legacy of September 11
Typical Visit Length
- Outdoor Memorial: 30–60 minutes
- Memorial Museum: 2–3 hours
- Memorial, Museum & Lower Manhattan: Plan for a half-day visit
Visitor Tip
Visit the outdoor memorial before entering the museum. Walking around the reflecting pools and reading the engraved names provides valuable context that makes the museum’s exhibits even more meaningful. Arriving earlier in the day also offers a quieter and more reflective experience.
Good to Know
- The outdoor memorial is free to visit.
- The museum requires timed admission tickets.
- Security screening is required before entering the museum.
- Most visitors spend at least two hours exploring the museum.
- Photography is permitted in many areas, but flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.
- Some exhibits include graphic images and emotional stories that may not be suitable for younger children.
Hours
- 9/11 Memorial: Open daily, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM*
- 9/11 Memorial Museum: Open Wednesday–Monday and select Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM*
*Hours are subject to change. Please verify current operating hours before visiting.
Pricing
The outdoor memorial is free to visit. Admission to the museum requires a paid ticket, with discounted pricing available for seniors, students, veterans, and children. Advance online reservations are recommended, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons.
Pair Your Visit
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is easy to combine with several of Lower Manhattan’s most popular attractions. After visiting the memorial, head to One World Observatory for panoramic views of New York City, explore the striking architecture and shopping inside the Oculus, enjoy lunch overlooking the waterfront at Brookfield Place, or take a relaxing walk through Battery Park before catching a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Looking for More Museums?
If you’re interested in New York City’s history, art, and culture, continue exploring the Intrepid Museum, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Metropolitan Museum of Art, or American Museum of Natural History.
Nearby Things to Do
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum sits in the heart of the World Trade Center complex, just steps from One World Observatory, The Oculus, Brookfield Place, Battery Park, Wall Street, and Trinity Church. It’s an excellent starting point for exploring Lower Manhattan on foot.
9/11 Memorial and Museum Images
