to Fulton Street — Transit Center,
or r to Cortland Street.
9/11 Ground Zero With One World Observatory
Our insider-led tour with your ticket to the tallest skyscraper in America included
Highlights
- Learn about the events of 9/11 from a New Yorker who lived it.
- Feel the emotion of the various sites, from the Oculus to the FDNY Memorial.
- Stand in awe at the Reflecting Absence pools as your guide explains their meaning.
- Stand on top of New York at the One World Observatory in Freedom Tower.
“I looked outside and could not believe what I was seeing — black smoke rising from where the towers once stood.”
- Sandy, Ground Zero tour guide
What you’ll do
Begin with a guided tour of Ground Zero, hearing firsthand stories from your guide and learning about the events of 9/11.
We start at the Oculus, an architectural marvel built after the attacks with a symbolic design. Follow...
Begin with a guided tour of Ground Zero, hearing firsthand stories from your guide and learning about the events of 9/11.
We start at the Oculus, an architectural marvel built after the attacks with a symbolic design. Follow your guide to the 9/11 Memorial, where you’ll pause to pay your respects and learn about the many elements here, from the FDNY Memorial Wall to the now famous Survivor Tree.
The centerpiece of the memorial is Michael Arad’s “Reflecting Absence,” the largest manmade waterfall in the country, pouring endlessly into the empty footprints of the Twin Towers. Around it are the names of those who died in the attacks.
Each guide’s experience of 9/11 is unique, and so is each tour. In addition to the stops above, you may visit other sites at Ground Zero. These include the St. Paul’s Chapel, which miraculously survived the falling debris and became a rescue center for victims, as well as the Brooks Brothers building that served as a temporary morgue and the Millennium Hotel, where the FBI thwarted another attack on New York.
After your tour of the 9/11 Memorial, continue for your self-guided visit to the One World Observatory. Located inside Freedom Tower, the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere, the observatory was built after the destruction of the World Trade Center. You’ll climb aboard the SkyPod, an elevator that shows you a time-lapse of NYC while whisking you 1,250 feet in the air to the three-level observation deck. This attraction includes a theater, educational displays, dining, and incredible views of Manhattan. It’s the perfect way to end your visit to Ground Zero.
Itinerary
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Oculus
The wing-shaped transit hub and shopping center that symbolizes renewal at Ground Zero -
FDNY Memorial Wall
Dedicated to the New York firefighters who gave their lives on September 11, 2001 -
Liberty Park
A peaceful elevated greenspace overlooking the 9/11 Memorial -
9/11 Memorial
Featuring large pools built in the footprints of the original Twin Towers -
One World Observatory
The 360-degree observation deck at Freedom Tower
Reviews
Meeting point
We meet inside the Oculus, a mall and transportation hub at Ground Zero. Go to Level C2. Your guide will be wearing an orange hat and standing by the L'Arte del Gelato stand.
Getting here
Nearest Subways
1
2
4
5
A
C
J
Z
Ending point
The guided portion of our tour ends at the 9/11 Memorial (about four blocks from the meeting location). Your self-guided visit to the observatory is after the tour.
FAQs
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
Is the tour appropriate for children?
Yes, our guided tour of Ground Zero is appropriate for all ages. The subject matter is covered sensitively, and we’ve had many families enjoy our tours over the years. Kids Does this tour cover the 9/11 Museum or Freedom Tower?4-12 can join our tour at a reduced rate.
Does this tour cover the 9/11 Museum or Freedom Tower?
This tour includes admission to the One World Observatory. Your visit there is self-guided. If you want to visit the 9/11 Museum as well, try our 9/11 Ground Zero All Access Tour.
How will I get my tickets for the observatory?
Your tour concierge will give you your tickets for the One World Observatory when you check in for your tour, so it’s important to arrive early to make sure you don’t miss your tour.
Is the tour good for kids?
Yes, our Ground Zero tour is appropriate for all ages. The subject matter is covered sensitively, and we’ve had many families enjoy our tours over the years.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late. When you arrive, just tell the guide your name at check-in. No need to print out anything.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine. If there’s extreme weather and we have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund.
Are gratuities included?
Tips aren’t included but are always appreciated by our guides. If you think your guide did an outstanding job, a tip is a great way to show that.