9/11 Ground Zero Insider Tour
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Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
$39 €34 £30 C$55 A$60
Highlights
- Hear firsthand accounts from your guide, a New Yorker with a personal connection to 9/11.
- Feel the hope of Ground Zero as your guide inspires you with signs of its rebirth.
- Stand in awe of the country’s largest man-made waterfalls in the footprints of the fallen Twin Towers.
- Explore the interactive 9/11 Museum with our skip-the-line ticket upgrade.
- Be dazzled by panoramic views of NYC with our Freedom Tower upgrade.
What you'll do
On the morning of September 11, 2001, a clear blue sky gave way to smoke, chaos, and unimaginable loss. Sirens echoed through Lower Manhattan. First responders rushed in. Thousands never came out. In the days and weeks that followed, New Yorkers turned to each other, offering support,...
On the morning of September 11, 2001, a clear blue sky gave way to smoke, chaos, and unimaginable loss. Sirens echoed through Lower Manhattan. First responders rushed in. Thousands never came out. In the days and weeks that followed, New Yorkers turned to each other, offering support, searching for loved ones, and beginning the long road to healing.
Today, you’ll walk through the same streets with a local New Yorker who lived through that day. Our 90-minute Ground Zero tour offers a personal perspective on both the tragedy and the resilience born from it.
We’ll begin at the Oculus, a transit hub and shopping center that serves as a symbol of New York City’s strength and resilience in the aftermath of 9/11. From there, your guide will lead you to the 9/11 Memorial, where two reflecting pools now rest in the Twin Towers’ footprints. You’ll uncover the stories behind places like the Survivor Tree, the FDNY Memorial Wall, and more, each stop shaped by your guide’s lived experience.
You can also upgrade to see the 9/11 Museum, which we highly recommend pairing with your Ground Zero tour. This option lets you skip the line to save time. You can also add on a visit to the stunning One World Observatory atop Freedom Tower, the tallest skyscraper in America and a testament to the hope and resilience of New York after 9/11.
Ground Zero tour itinerary
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Oculus
A transportation hub and shopping center built after 9/11, symbolizing rebirth and renewal at Ground Zero -
FDNY Memorial Wall
Dedicated to the New York firefighters who sacrificed their lives during the rescue effort -
9/11 Memorial
Where you’ll learn about the World Trade Center attacks and NYC’s rebirth through personal stories -
More Ground Zero sights
Such as the Saint Paul’s Chapel, the Survivor Tree, and more -
Optional upgrade: 9/11 Museum
Includes a skip-the-line ticket to visit the exhibits -
Optional upgrade: One World Observatory
Stunning views from the 360-degree observation deck at the top of Freedom Tower
Meeting point
Where we meet
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.
End point
9/11 Memorial & Museum, Greenwich Street, New York, NY, USA
9/11 Memorial (If you’ve purchased the 9/11 Museum upgrade, your guide will take you to the skip-the-line entrance.)
Your insider experience
Our guides remember what it was like in New York on Sept. 11, 2001. The smoke. The sirens. The shock. But afterward, the incredible heroism, courage, and resilience. This is what they’ll share with you through personal stories and historical details as you explore Ground Zero together.
9/11 Memorial tour FAQs
How much walking is there?
We cover less than a mile at a leisurely pace, and the walking route is fairly level.
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.
How does the 9/11 Museum upgrade work?
This upgrade includes a skip-the-line ticket for a self-guided visit to the 9/11 Museum. Be sure to arrive during your timed entry window as the museum reserves the right to deny admission if you miss this. There’s a security checkpoint, and all large bags must be checked. You can stay as long as you like after entering.
How does the One World Observatory upgrade work?
This upgrade is self-guided and includes a ticket for access to the observatory at One World Trade Center (aka Freedom Tower), built after 9/11. OWO has amazing views by day and night as well as interesting exhibits.
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.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine, so please check the local forecast to plan. In rare cases when we have to cancel for extreme weather, we’ll offer you the chance to reschedule or give a full refund.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this tour, including the museum and observatory, is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Are gratuities included?
Tips are always appreciated but never expected. They’re a great way to tell your guide they did an awesome job and show your appreciation.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes! If you want to give the gift of New York (or any of our destinations) to someone else, you can purchase a tour gift card. Our gift cards are good for any of our tours, and they never expire.
