One of the more than 2,000 saved pieces of the World Trade Center, stands as a sentinel next to museum windows overlooking the memorial site.
This is a fitting, somber, respectful museum, strikingly curated and staged, to honor those who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks. A must-see for every American, exhibits show not only artifacts from the devastating tragedy, but beautifully honor details about the lives of those who died. The museum includes information about the Pentagon attack and Pennsylvania crash as well as a haunting, detailed timeline and background of the terrorists’ planning. Video and audio clips greatly enhance the experience. Much of the story is told through family members of those who were killed as well as the men and women who survived and responded to the sites.
It’s those personal stories that really make your heart break . . .
Essentials: Guided tours are available for an additional charge and there is a self-guided tour with a smartphone app narrated by Robert De Niro. Admission is $24, $18 for seniors, and free on Tuesdays after 5PM (on a first-come, first-served basis, available after 4PM). If you are buying tickets, the on-line process will save you time. Tickets are sold with entry at 30-minute intervals, beginning at 9AM. Allow 2-4 hours. We entered at 9:30AM and by the time we left, at midday, it was getting very crowded. Visitors need to review the rules of decorum, as is befitting. It’s quiet, no sitting on the floor, no flash photography and in many sections, no photography at all.
Known as “the last piece standing”, bearing “signatures” of the many rescue, recovery and clean-up teams working the aftermath of the tragedy.
One of the twin reflecting pools inscribed with names of those lost at the World Trade Center on 9/11; part of the Memorial located outside the museum.