Private All Access 9/11 Ground Zero: Tour, Museum & Observatory

New York City , United States of America

Private All Access 9/11 Ground Zero: Tour, Museum & Observatory

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(74 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This deeply personal 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. The historic church was miraculously unharmed when the Twin Towers fell.

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 man-made waterfalls on the continent. Your private guide will share the meaning behind the memorial, stories from the day, and how New Yorkers came together in the aftermath.

Afterward, visit the 9/11 Museum with your skip-the-line ticket for a self-guided tour of the exhibits and artifacts. Next, walk over to Freedom Tower. In the lobby, you can watch "Voices," a film about the Twin Towers and Freedom Tower, before riding the SkyPod elevator 1,250 feet up. Visit the tri-level One World Observatory for panoramic views of NYC, immersive LED displays, and the See Forever Theater.

Available options

All Access Tour

What's included

Views from 150 feet up in the One World Observatory with the highest panoramic views in NYC

Self-guided tour of the lobby of Freedom Tower with the film “Voices”

Visit to the meaningful sites of Ground Zero

Moment of reflection at the “Reflecting Absence” fountains

A private guide who shares stories about their personal connection to 9/11

Skip-the-line ticket for the 9/11 Museum, featuring historic artifacts, art, and themed exhibits

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

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.

Stop 2

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.

Stop 3

Skip the line to enter the 9/11 Museum where you’ll take a self-guided tour through the collections of media, memorabilia, historic artifacts, and more.

Stop 4

Ride the "SkyPod" elevator up 1,250 feet to see breathtaking views of Manhattan from This 360-degree observation deck. The deck spans three levels and includes the See Forever Theater, immersive LED displays, touch-screen video, and dining.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

57 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

A moderate amount of walking is involved. Please wear comfortable shoes

Please dress appropriately and bring layers in case of cold weather

Children 5 and under free with paid adult ticket

Meeting point

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.

Important notes

• We do NOT meet at the 9/11 Memorial. Tour meets Inside the Oculus by L'Arte del Gelato
• Your guide will be there 10 minutes before your tour and will be holding and orange flag
• NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED IF YOU MISS YOUR TOUR
• You will go through airport style security checks at both the 911 Museum and One World Observatory, so please be advised that some items are not allowed

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information