Your VIP Ground Zero Tour Experience
Highlights
- Tour the 9/11 Memorial with a local who can share personal memories of that fateful day.
- Learn about the symbolism at sites throughout Ground Zero, from the Oculus to the Survivor Tree.
- Explore the interactive 9/11 Museum on a docent-led tour of its many exhibits.
- Upgrade to see New York from the over 100 floors up at the One World Observatory.
What you'll do
New Yorkers who lived here in 2001 still remember the morning of September 11. The tragedy, the heroism, and the hope shining through unimaginable loss. It’s hard to describe, but we believe these are stories worth sharing, and our guides give you a glimpse of what it was like for t...
New Yorkers who lived here in 2001 still remember the morning of September 11. The tragedy, the heroism, and the hope shining through unimaginable loss. It’s hard to describe, but we believe these are stories worth sharing, and our guides give you a glimpse of what it was like for them on that day so many years — and yet not long — ago.
As you walk through the sites of Ground Zero on this small-group tour, you’ll see the Oculus, a white-winged building that serves as a symbol of the city’s resilience in the face of the attacks. Learn about the twin pools (the largest artificial waterfalls in the country) resting in the footprint of the Twin Towers. You’ll also see the Survivor Tree, the FDNY Memorial Wall, and more, as your guide leads you finally to the 9/11 Museum.
This museum is the perfect complement to our Ground Zero tour. You’ll enter with your skip-the-line ticket and join a VIP tour of the collections. The docent will guide you through the various exhibits and stories from 9/11 and its aftermath as you learn about another side of New York you might not otherwise discover.
We highly recommend capping off your Lower Manhattan visit with a trip up Freedom Tower. It’s the tallest skyscraper in America, built after 9/11, and the One World Observatory affords one of the best views of New York.
We hope you enjoy it!
Ground Zero tour itinerary
-
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 -
9/11 Museum
Includes a skip-the-line ticket and a guided tour of the collection -
Optional upgrade: One World Observatory
Stunning views from the 360-degree observation deck at the top of Freedom Tower
Meeting point
Where we meet
L'Arte del Gelato, 185 Greenwich Street, New York, NY, USA
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
The guided portion of your tour ends inside the 9/11 Museum.
Your insider experience
Our guides remember the loss and devastation of September 11th, but also the heroism and resilience born out of tragedy. On this intimate small-group tour, you’ll hear firsthand accounts from that day and explore the 9/11 Museum, led by an expert docent.
9/11 Memorial and Museum tour reviews
How much walking is there?
We cover less than a mile outdoors 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.
Is a tour of the 9/11 Museum included?
Yes, your skip-the-line entry and guided tour of the 9/11 Museum is included with this experience. After the tour, you’re welcome to stay as long as you’d like inside the museum. There’s a security checkpoint before entering the museum, and all large bags must be checked.
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.