Tours/New York City/New York 9/11 Memorial Tour with Optional One World Observatory
Viator · group up to 20 pax

New York 9/11 Memorial Tour with Optional One World Observatory

4.8(642)New York City1 hour
VIATOR4.6(194)TRIPADVISOR4.9(448)

Description

This moving and evocative tour of Ground Zero begins at the site of what served as a rescue center for victims and place for mementos after the attacks: St. Paul's Chapel. This historic church was miraculously unharmed when the Twin Towers fell despite being only a block away. You'll then walk to the 9/11 Memorial where we'll reflect on the lives lost in the World Trade Center attacks. See "Reflecting Absence," the largest artificial waterfalls on the continent. Your guide will share the meaning behind the memorial, stories from the day, and how New Yorkers came together in the aftermath. From there, begin a self-guided tour in the lobby of the Freedom Tower by watching "Voices," a film dedicated to the men and women of the Twin Towers and Freedom Tower. Upgrade your experience to take the "Sky Pod" elevator 1,250 feet up to the One World Observatory, where you can see the NYC skyline stretching across Manhattan.

Tour Options

Tour with Observatory Entry
  • With Observatory Entry
Tour Only

Itinerary

15 min

The tour begins one block from Ground Zero at a historic church, built in 1766, that miraculously survived the falling debris from the attacks. Your guide will explain how this beautiful church served the community in the wake of the tragedy.

60 min

Pay your respects to those who lost their lives at the World Trade Center on 9/11. Your guide will share the meaning behind all the symbolic places in the memorial plaza, including the Survivor Tree and “Reflecting Absence,” which is the largest man-made waterfall on the continent. PLEASE NOTE: Museum entry is not included in this tour.

Admission included60 min

Upgrade your experience to take the "Sky Pod" elevator up 1,250 feet to see breathtaking views of Manhattan from the 360-degree observation deck. It spans three levels and includes the See Forever Theater, immersive LED displays, touch-screen video, and dining.

Highlights

Self-guided tour of the lobby of Freedom Tower with the film “Voices”
Visit to the meaningful sites of Ground Zero
Optional upgrade to visit the One World Observatory with the highest panoramic views in NYC
A local guide who shares stories about their personal connection to 9/11
Moment of reflection at the largest man-made waterfalls on the continent

What's included

Included
Self-guided tour of the lobby of Freedom Tower with the film “Voices”
Visit to the meaningful sites of Ground Zero
Optional upgrade to visit the One World Observatory with the highest panoramic views in NYC
A local guide who shares stories about their personal connection to 9/11
Moment of reflection at the largest man-made waterfalls on the continent
Not included
Gratuities
9/11 Museum (upgradable on site depending on availability)

Traveller Ratings

4.8
642 reviews
5
585
4
31
3
11
2
9
1
6

Important Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
  • Tour is wheelchair accessible
  • Please dress appropriately and bring layers in case of cold weather
  • One World Observatory entrance is NOT included unless option is selected at time of booking
  • Children 5 and under free with paid adult ticket
  • Also note, in case you are approached by street booksellers, they are not affiliated with us

Reviews(642)

T
travelerobek
June 15, 2026
Best things to see in NYC

Very moving and nicely done memorial... must see in NYC! clean and well maintained!

D
drm70
April 16, 2026
Remarkable tour

Very knowledgeable guide that respectfully shared about the events of that day in history and its impact on the people of NYC.

Operator response

Thank you for your kind feedback. We are glad to hear you found the guide knowledgeable and that the tour was presented in a respectful and thoughtful way. The events of that day remain deeply significant, and we always aim to honor the impact they had on New York City and its people. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.

B
Brian703
March 31, 2026
Mr Kelly’s version of 9/11

Our guide Paul Kelly was exceptional. I cannot recommend this guy enough….gave us a full on tour with details and stories from Burger King building to the church and so so much more. Gave us a real insight and feel on how 9/11 was for New York and the months and years and to this day how it is affecting people. One of the best guides/tours we have ever been on!

1 people found this helpful
B
Bryan_R
February 20, 2026
Must See 9/11 Memorial Tour

We had a powerful experience with Sean narrating the actual biographies of people who lost their lives on 911. He made the day come alive again: with the people in the tower, the rescue workers, regular citizens, etc. I couldn't help but but cry as he told of these stories, as Sean is a brilliant storyteller. Thank you, Sean!

D
dovidb2026
February 18, 2026
Knowledgeable Arun

My wife and I went on a tour given by Arun who was very nice and knowledgeable on the events of 9/11. He answered questions on the spot and spoke with passion. We really enjoyed.

L
LouisL975
January 7, 2026
9/11 Ground Zero Tour

This was our third time visiting the 911 Memorial and Museum. Our guide Russell, did an amazing job of explaining what we were seeing and experiencing. We learned several things about that terrible day that we had not heard before. He was very thorough, knowledgeable and made the tour a much better experience for us.

1 people found this helpful
M
M184XLaliciac
January 2, 2026
Wonderful experience!

Liz was a great guide! And she was very patient with my very eager 10 yr old! Liz is a native New Yorker and was very knowledgable. Although not the best time of year (super cold!) we highly enjoyed the tour. About a hour spent outside so be prepared for the weather. Very touching stories.

P
P7067TJnickl
December 15, 2025
An Unforgettable 9/11 Experience — Ask for Paul

We just got back from an amazing weekend in New York, and one of the highlights was our visit to the new One World Trade Center Observatory. When we purchased our tickets, we were pleasantly surprised to learn they included a 90-minute guided tour. Paul was our tour guide, and he did an absolutely incredible job. His knowledge, storytelling, and ability to paint a vivid and respectful picture of the events of 9/11 were truly moving. He shared the history in a way that was informative, emotional, and deeply impactful without ever feeling rushed or scripted. If you are considering this tour, we highly recommend requesting Paul. He made the experience unforgettable and added so much meaning to an already powerful place.

Operator response

Thank you so much! We’re thrilled to hear that Paul made your visit to One World Trade Center Observatory so memorable. We’re glad his knowledge, storytelling, and thoughtful approach added meaning to your experience. We really appreciate your recommendation!

I
I8422ZBerinl
December 14, 2025
Group tour with Arun

Arun was amazing! He had photo prompts with detailed, emotional stories. Very knowledgeable New York native! Highly recommend; loved him!!!

2 people found this helpful
V
Vladimir K
December 13, 2025
Excelent

Arun was excelnent. His iterpretation surprised us very plesantly. We are very happy Arun told us a lot of details about the 9/11 attack. Thank you very much.

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