For tourists in New York City who want to learn more about the events of 9/11 and pay their respects, there are lots of ways to learn about the events leading up to 9/11, the day of, and the aftermath, all right near the World Trade Center.
Plus, there are plenty of non-9/11 related things to do as well. Check out everything from sailing and boating to sculptures and shopping near the World Trade Center.
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9/11 Memorial & Museum
For an in-depth look at 9/11, visit the National September 11 Memorial Museum. More than 110,000 square feet of space is dedicated to artifacts, displays, and archives depicting the 9/11 attacks. At the museum, the most notable display is part of a retaining wall that survived from the World Trade Center, which is now located in Foundation Hall. At the 9/11 Memorial, you can read the names of everyone who perished due to the terrorist attacks.
9/11 Tribute Museum
At the 9/11 Tribute Museum, tourists can connect with the community of victims who suffered directly during the attacks on the World Trade Center. Read personal stories from everyone from recovery workers and first responders to people who lost loved ones. This is a place to watch videos, read letters, and simply learn more about the loss that occurred in the lower Manhattan community during 9/11. It is an ideal way to begin your personal tour of the area surrounding the World Trade Center.
Getting in: 9/11 Tribute Museum tickets are included with The New York Pass.
One World Observatory
After spending time in remembrance of 9/11, it’s time to elevate your mood—quite literally. At the One World Observatory, located within the One World Trade Center, you'll get sky-high views of Manhattan. This is the tallest building in all of the Western Hemisphere, and tourists can see views from the observation deck. Ride the SkyPod elevator all the way to its zenith where you are greeted by three floors of exhibits, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities of the entire NYC expanse.
Manhattan Waterfront Greenway (free)
Now it’s time to regain your land legs with a stroll along the famous NYC Greenway better known as the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway. This expansive city park features bicycle rentals for tourists, as well as green spaces for nature walks and picnic opportunities. Highlights at the park include the Grecian Temple, Little Red Lighthouse, and the Battery within view of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The Hudson River Park and Stuyvesant Cove are equally impressive for nature lovers.
Brookfield Place (free)
Located within the World Financial Center, Brookfield Place is a high-end shopping mall in the heart of Lower Manhattan. It's located near the 9/11 Tribute and 9/11 Museum & Memorial. In addition to window browsing, you can explore a number of amenities at Brookfield. There is seasonal ice skating at The Rink and workout sessions at Equinox. Brookfield Place is also home to dozens of fabulous dining opportunities.
Silverstein Family Park (free)
After all the tasty treats you've eaten at Brookfield, check out Silverstein Family Park. This urban refuge is located at the base of 7 World Trade Center. The artwork displayed here adds to the tranquility of the 5,000 square feet of open plaza, nestled within trees and greenery. It's the perfect place to rest your weary tourist feet after a long day.
St. Paul's Chapel (free)
If you are looking to feel inspired, just add St. Paul’s Chapel, also known as Trinity Church, to your list of places to see in NYC near the World Trade Center. This chapel, built in 1766, was once used by George Washington for prayers. However, the real reason it is such a wondrous site is because of its location.
The chapel sits across the street from one of the World Trade Center towers. Yet on 9/11, the chapel received no damage, not even a cracked window. St. Paul’s served exhausted firefighters as a place of rest and refuge. Visitors are welcomed in this historic and awe-inspiring chapel today.
Red Cube
As you round out your tour near the World Trade Center, it’s time to take a selfie. What better place to do this than the Red Cube? Situated in Zuccotti Park, which is more of a plaza, the Red Cube is one of the most famous sculptures in Manhattan.
Built in 1968 by artist Isamu Noguchi, the cube sits positioned on a corner. More notably, it features a hole through the center that offers the perfect frame for any tourist’s photo. The surrounding park is regularly the host of food trucks, so it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the vibrant flavors of New York City.
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