9/11 Memorial and Museum FAQs: All Your Questions Answered

What’s the difference between the 9 11 Memorial and Museum?

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum are two distinct entities located at the World Trade Center site in lower Manhattan, New York City. The 9/11 Memorial is the outdoor space located on the site which commemorates the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 and February 26th, 1993. It consists of two large reflecting pools , each with the names of those who died inscribed on bronze panels.

The 9/11 Memorial Museum is a national museum located within the World Trade Center site that honors those lost and injured in the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001 and February 26th, 1993. It contains archives and artifacts related to the event as well as interactive displays, educational programs, and memorial exhibitions.

What are the hours of operation for the 9 11 Memorial and Museum?

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum are open seven days a week from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. Last admission is at 7 pm. The museum has extended hours on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday (until 9 pm) and is closed on major holidays. Museum tickets can be purchased online in advance.

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, it is recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance. Advance tickets can be purchased online or at the admissions desk when you arrive onsite. Tickets are not refundable, but they provide guaranteed entry to the museum and Memorial.

Are there tours available at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum?

Yes, there are several guided tours offered in many languages. Visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum can be a powerful and emotionally charged experience. To ensure an informative and meaningful visit, consider taking one of the guided tours offered at the site. These professionally-led, immersive experiences provide visitors with detailed information about each memorial and museum element, further contextualizing them within the broader historical context of September 11th, 2001 and February 26th, 1993.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

No, you will not need to bring anything with you. However, if you are planning to take a guided tour of the Memorial or Museum, it is recommended that you bring your own water bottle and comfortable shoes as the tours can last up to 90 minutes.

Which are the items I am not allowed to bring to the 9/11 Museum?

For the safety and security of all visitors, there are some items that are not allowed onsite. These include firearms and weapons; sharp objects such as knives, scissors, nail clippers; and liquids including water bottles. Backpacks and large bags must be checked in at the admissions desk before entering the museum or memorial grounds. Visitors should also ensure that all electronic devices and cameras are turned off before entering the museum.

Are there any special discounts for groups visiting the 9/11 Museum?

Yes, there are special discounts available for groups of 10 or more people. Group ticket prices offer a discounted rate and do not require advance reservations. To qualify for the group discount, all tickets must be purchased at once in one transaction. It is recommended that groups contact the 9/11 Memorial Museum in advance to ensure availability. Group tickets are also available for purchase at the admissions desk when you arrive onsite. Please note that group ticket holders must enter and exit together, so it is advisable to designate a meeting point prior to entering.

Will visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum make me sad?

Visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum can be a powerful experience, and it is important to remember that everyone processes grief differently. The Memorial site is intended to honor those who lost their lives in the attack, but it could also evoke strong emotions for some visitors. If you feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable during your visit, there are trained staff members onsite who can provide assistance and support.

Additionally, the museum has resources available to help people process their grief in healthy ways. It is important to remember that you are not alone in your experience of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Seeking out a companion or a guide may be helpful when visiting the site.

When did 9/11 Memorial open?

The 9/11 Memorial opened to the public on September 12, 2011 – exactly ten years after the attacks. It was built to honor and remember the loved ones lost in the attacks, as well as those who risked their lives to save others. The Memorial is free and open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The 9/11 Museum opened three years later on May 21st, 2014. It serves as a permanent memorial dedicated to providing an understanding and acknowledgement of the events that occurred on 9/11.

Do you need tickets for Ground Zero?

No, tickets are not required to visit the 9/11 Memorial. However, visitors must pass through a security screening before entering the site. The Museum does require admission tickets for entry, which can be purchased online or at the admissions desk when you arrive onsite. It is recommended that you purchase your ticket in advance and arrive 30 minutes prior to your desired entry time in order to reduce wait times.

What is the time period that is covered by the 9/11 Memorial?

The 9/11 Memorial covers the events that occurred on September 11th, 2001 as well as the aftermath of that day. It also commemorates the victims of both the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and 9/11-related illnesses. The museum exhibits provide an in-depth look at the day’s events and explore how these attacks have had a lasting impact on our nation. In addition, the Memorial provides visitors with an opportunity to reflect and remember all those affected by the attacks.