National September 11 Memorial & Museum opened in 2011. Visiting it is one of the most profound experiences — and not only because the exhibition is dedicated to a terrible tragedy.
September 11, 2001 changed not only New York; that single day transformed the entire country, the world, and even whole industries (such as security and aviation). The museum tells the story of events that, in one way or another, affected everyone.
The museum is part of the 9/11 Memorial complex, centered around two vast square fountains that descend deep into the ground on the exact footprints of the Twin Towers. Inside the museum, visitors can even walk beneath these fountains. The creators designed the underground galleries with incredible sensitivity and talent.
When you first decide to visit, you might expect something formal, archaic, or overly solemn — like a mausoleum for buildings. But in reality, it is a modern and progressive museum that transports you back to 2001 and allows you to relive that day through the lives of different people — including the 2,996 victims of the attacks.
The exhibition was created with a deep reverence for human life. After leaving the 9/11 Museum, one feels an overwhelming desire to live.
There is even a dedicated gallery honoring the dogs who lost their lives while helping rescue teams search for survivors in the rubble.
The museum also tells the story of the Twin Towers, including the massive underground retaining wall that was built to hold back the nearby Hudson River.
Visitors can also see destroyed fragments of the towers, fire trucks, and personal belongings of the people who were inside the buildings.
Practical Information
📍 Address: 180 Greenwich Street, next to the 9/11 Memorial fountains
🎟️ Tickets: from $33.00, available online here
