Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum can be an emotional roller coaster. However, it’s something everyone should experience at least once.
It’s a way to honor the lives lost on that fateful Tuesday morning in September. But who owns this remarkable and patriotic site?
Today, we’ll answer this question and share some essential information to help you prepare to revisit that day.
Let’s roll!
What Is the 9/11 Memorial & Museum?
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a tribute to those lost in the horrific attacks on the World Trade Center. It honors the 2,977 individuals who perished on September 11, 2001, and the six who died on February 26, 1993. In addition, it recognizes the sacrifices of the brave men and women who risked everything to rescue others.
It opened to the public on the tragedy’s tenth anniversary and covers eight of the original complex’s 16 acres. Many come to pay their respects to those impacted.
Within the walls of this sacred site is a collection of artifacts, pictures, and videos. The various exhibits detail the day’s events and the aftermath. Visitors can better understand the attacks, the victims, and how the world has forever changed.
For many, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a place of remembrance, education, and healing. More than 20 years later, it’s common to hear people sharing where they were as things unfolded.
What’s the address: 180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007
Why Is There a Hole in the 9/11 Memorial?
The design for the 9/11 Memorial includes many symbolic elements. Some of the most evident are the two 30-foot-deep reflecting pools near where the towers once stood. The center of these aquatic structures contains two smaller holes, allowing water to drop another 30 feet. They represent the lives lost and the physical void from the Twin Towers’ absence.
These aren’t the only symbolic designs you’ll spot throughout the memorial. The names of those who perished are written in bronze surrounding the pools. Their placement may seem random, but it was intentional. Designers set them where they would’ve been in the building during the attacks.
Additionally, you might notice white roses throughout the site. These flowers signify that it’s the person’s birthday. Each day, members of the staff put the blossoms into the names.
Had the events not occurred, many of those inscribed would be cutting cake and celebrating with friends, family, and co-workers.
Can You Go to the 9/11 Memorial for Free?
The 9/11 Memorial is free and open to the public, typically every day. However, operating hours are subject to change. We suggest calling them to make sure there aren’t conflicts for when you plan to go.
While there’s no cost to visit the memorial, there’s a fee to enter the museum. They offer various ticket packages and discounts based on age and military status, and others for local first responders. They’re typically closed on Tuesdays to clean the facility thoroughly.
Those who pay to become members get complimentary entry.
They also offer Free Admission Mondays, which are first-come, first-served spots you can book online. Those who qualify for SNAP or are EBT cardholders can receive four tickets per person at no cost.
Who Owns the 9/11 Memorial & Museum?
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum (formerly the World Trade Center Memorial Foundation) owns, operates, and finances the establishment. It’s a nonprofit organization established in 2005 to build a tribute to the victims of 9/11. Further, the foundation’s purpose was to preserve the memory of those involved and educate the general public.
After construction, officials transitioned to operating, managing, and organizing events. Today, they curate exhibits, establish educational programs, and arrange affairs honoring the victims. They hope to provide you with a deeper understanding of the historical significance and impact of the attacks.
Tips for Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum can be overwhelming for anyone. Knowing a few things ahead of time will make it a smoother experience. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your visit.
Get Your Tickets in Advance
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a sacred attraction for tourists and locals. If you plan to stop by, secure your spot as early as possible. If not, you could find yourself out of luck and unable to see the exhibits.
Passes are generally available six months in advance. However, they offer a limited number of same-day admission spots when available. It’s important to remember that there’s no guarantee for these passes. Planning can give you one less thing to worry about while navigating the Big Apple.
Take Your Time
One mistake you want to avoid is rushing through the experience. The museum alone deserves two to three hours, at least. Give yourself the freedom to appreciate the curated exhibits while absorbing the photographs and stories of the victims.
Once you’ve finished in the museum, you also want to take your time in the plaza. Stroll the grounds where the iconic World Trade Center towers once stood.
Allow yourself to read through the names etched around the pools. It can feel like time stands still in the middle of the City That Never Sleeps.
Prepare Your Emotions
As you can imagine, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is emotional. The subdued atmosphere will impact you no matter where you were during the attacks. The exhibits are so powerful it can feel like you’re reliving that fateful day again. However, many younger individuals are experiencing it for the first time.
Be self-aware and know when you’ve reached your limit. You may need to shorten the trip and leave the site. Walking around can remind you of the hope and perseverance of the city and people of New York.
Is Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum Worth It?
We think a trip to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is absolutely worth it. The facility does a tremendous job of honoring and respecting the victims and their families. If your travels take you through the Big Apple, build it into your schedule.
Remember to consider other activities you’ve planned for the day. Since it’s an emotional experience, you’ll likely feel drained when you finish. However, you might come away with a sense of reverence and optimism for the future.
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