9/11 Memorial Overview
History of 911 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial was set up on the site of the previously existing World Trade Center after its destruction in 2001. The World Trade Center was destroyed because of the double attacks by terrorists. The terrorists intentionally flew 2 commercial flights into the twin towers running them and destroying the lives of thousand people. The North Tower was attacked first at 8.46 am followed by the South Tower at 9.03 am. The South Tower completely gave away at 9.59 and the North Tower followed in half an hour later. The recovery workers spent the entire following year recovering the bodies and remnants from the ruins of the buildings. The remaining steel from the Twin Towers have been re-used in the construction of the various 9/11 memorials. This prominent monument was inaugurated in 2014; in the presence of famous dignitaries like Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton.
Design of 9/11 Memorial
Highlights of 9/11 Memorial
Among the cluster of 400 swamp white oak trees, there is a prominent Callery Pear tree which was heavily damaged due to the terrorist attack in 2001. After this tree was discovered; it was tended back to its previous state. Having withstood the occurrences of the terrorist attack; this tree now stands at the centre of the World Trade Center site as an epitome of tenacity and strength.
The south-west area of the 9/11 Memorial forms the Memorial Glade. It pays homage to the victims and survivors of the 9/11 who were affected by the acidic gases after the attack. It includes a pathway formed by six huge monoliths, which are made out of the remains of the World Trade Center. The Memorial Glade was opened on 30th May, 2019.
The Sphere is a bronze sculpture made by German sculptor Fritz Koenig. This was the World’s largest bronze sculpture and was located between the Twin Towers until the attack. Post attack it was the single piece of work that could be recovered and partially restored. Since then it has remained as a tribute to the victims and survivors symbolising resistance and adversity.
Know Before You Go to 9/11 Memorial
Location:
180 Greenwich Street, New York - 10007, United States.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit the 9/11 Memorial is between the months of January to March. During this time, New York has comparatively lesser tourists, resulting in low fare flights and cheaper hotel accommodations.
How to Reach:
By Subway- You can reach the 9/11 Memorial via Subway and get off at Rector Street, which is the closest subway stop and is 60 metres away from the 9/11 Memorial.
By Bus - Visitors can also take the bus and get off at Wall Street and Downtown and walk 7 minutes to the Memorial.
By Taxi - Taking a cab/ hiring a rental car is the most comfortable yet most expensive option. The distance between the Chicago Midway Airport to the 9/11 Memorial Museum is 18 kilometres.
- Download an audio guide app from the playstore to get an audio guided tour of the museum.
- Buy your tickets beforehand through our company at discounted prices.
- It is not a good option to take kids below the age of 8 as the horrific stories of the real incidents might affect them negatively.
- The tour generally takes up a couple of hours, therefore, plan your itinerary accordingly.
FAQ's of 9/11 Memorial
How long should I plan to spend at the 9/11 memorial?
A tour of the 9/11 Memorial might take upto 2 - 3 hours. In these hours you will witness various places like the North and South Pools, The Sphere and the Memorial Glade.
Can you walk around the 911 memorial for free?
The entry to the 9/11 Memorial is entirely free but visitors have to buy tickets to enter the Museum. The Memorial remains open everyday from 9 am to 8 pm.
Is there a dress code for the 9/11 memorial?
No, there is no fixed dress code to enter the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, it is suggested that visitors wear casual clothes. Since it is a historical site built for paying respects to the deceased and the victims of 9/11, it is advised not to wear anything too flashy or celebratory due to the horrific events that took place there. Do not forget to wear comfortable shoes for the long tour of the memorial and the museum.
How long does it take to see the 9/11 Museum?
It takes around 2 hours to complete a tour of the 9/11 Museum. The museum displays different exhibits, photographs and videos from the 9/11 terrorist attack. Various guides are also readily available to make the tour smoother with audio apps and live commentary. The operational hours of the 9/11 Museum are from 9 am to 8 pm (everyday).
Why is the 9/11 Memorial famous?
The 9/11 Memorial is famous for being built above the traces of the World Trade Center that was destroyed in the terror attacks of 11th September, 2001. This is one of the most prominent buildings of New York and a major tourist highlight when in the US.
How deep is the hole in the 9/11 memorial?
The square pit at the bottom of the waterfall is 30 metres deep and the last central hole at the end of the pit is around 20 metres deep.
What's the difference between the 9/11 Memorial and Museum?
The 9/11 Memorial is spread over an area of 8 acres and comprises the outdoors, the Memorial Glade, the Sphere and the Pools. The 9/11 Museum is an underground gallery situated 70 metres below the ground, exhibiting the horrific displays of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center through the remains, the photographs and videos.