Guide to Visiting One World Trade Center

By Shashia Mitchell
Published: May 16, 2024

All you need to know about visiting the One World Trade Center, 9/11 Museum & Memorial and One World Observatory. Plan your trip now.

When planning your visit to New York City, One World Trade Center – also known as Freedom Tower – must be on the bucket list. Located in the New York City’s bustling financial district in Downtown Manhattan, it offers some of the most breath-taking views across the city up the One World Observatory and it is home to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. It’s also one of the most unique places to enjoy sunset cocktails and fine dining – so any experience of this modern landmark will offer something to remember.

Everyone remembers where they were when they found out about 9/11 so what better way to honor this day than to pay homage to the victims at the Memorial & Museum. Situated on the site of the original World Trade Center, the 9/11 Museum uncovers the story of this ill-fated day with over 10,000 artifacts on display, as well as interviews of 2,000 first-hand accounts, photographs and family testimonies.

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The One World Trade Center’s Museum also features a Permanent Collection with exhibitions of items donated as well as the incredible account from John Stiastny, one of few survivors of the national disaster. The Foundation Hall contains a segment of the surviving wall of the original structure of the World Trade Center and visitors can still see inscriptions, memorials, and missing posters from the aftermath in 2001. Outside visitors can also see the two memorial pools on the North and South end, the 80-foot Tridents columns as well as International flags which were suspended in the lobby of the original Twin Towers prior to the devastating incident.

You can easily spend half a day at the site if you then head up the 102 stories to the One World Observatory. The elevator takes just 47 seconds and, on the way, up you can enjoy a dynamic display learning of the transformation of New York City from its original settlement and bedrock to the concrete jungle of today. At the top, the Forever Theatre audio-visual exhibition thrusts you into the vibrant city life and the interactive displays and presentations will help you get to know Gotham’s rich culture and unique history. Don’t miss the Sky Portal, a glass floor that looks down onto the streets beneath you 100 stories below... Be warned: if you have vertigo this will be a challenge!

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Indulge in an evening to remember at ONE Dine, One World Trade Center's New York’s ultimate dining and drinking experience. The New York themed menu is a fun way to celebrate something special and guests are welcome for a cocktail, bar snack or a gourmet meal. Tip: you will need an Observatory ticket to enter and make a dinner reservation.

Of course, you won’t want to forget your camera for shots of the iconic skyline which, by day or night, is one of the most breathtaking vistas in all of New York. You can also make the most of a professional photographer for a take-home souvenir and visit the souvenir shop full of One World Trade Center-themed gifts.

A trip to the Big Apple during the holiday season is one of the best times of the year to experience the iconic city in all its cheer. One World Trade Center's Winter Onederland promises a giant snow globe, Santa Visits, family-friendly Christmas displays, as well as Christmas themed drinks and dining - fun for everyone!

If you plan on visiting the One World Trade Center’s 9/11 Memorial & Museum you can visit between 9AM – 8PM daily. To visit the One World Observatory, it is open 9AM – 9PM 7 days a week with last admission 8:15PM (check website for amended holiday hours over Christmas & New Year and during the summer months). ONE Dine is open for meals from 12PM – 9PM daily with last reservations at 6:45PM.

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Nearby you can also visit the iconic Statue of Liberty and historic Ellis Island Immigration Museum to make the most of your New York experience. If you plan on arriving by Subway, the stop is Fulton Street/Park Place or enjoy a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour experience and jump off at stop 11, 12, or 13 on the Downtown route. Alternatively, the address is 180 Greenwich St. World Trade Center should you be arriving by Taxi or car.

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Shashia Mitchell
Go City Travel Expert

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5 Days in New York

Spanning 59 community districts, each with their own unique vibe, New York offers countless attractions and points of exploration for every type of traveller. As exciting and innovative as ever, there’s no place quite like New York; the city’s art scene has some of the greatest institutions in the world, its architecture remains unmatched, and its nightlife boasts killer bars and restaurants. What’s more, the city is always coming up with new ways to surprise us, whether if it's with quirky fun hotspots or interesting hidden gems. No matter what you choose to do here, you’ll never be bored in the Big Apple! So, if you’re thinking about taking some time off to explore the concrete jungle, check out our list of the best things to do in the area. Whether you’re an art lover, a history geek, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. See the Sites One of the most distinguishing features of New York is its striking and varied architecture. If you want to see more of the cityscape, there’s no better place to be than the Empire State Building. Truly one of the city’s most iconic attractions, the building stands out for its incredible height and stature. For the bravest of travellers only, the observation deck provides amazing views of the city from way up high. A thoroughly unmissable NYC attraction and one-of-a-kind experience, this stop should be at the top of everybody’s itinerary! Another one of our favorite things to do in New York is visiting the Statue of Liberty. A total must-see for those looking to learn more about the development of the United States, the historic monument serves as an emblematic symbol of freedom and hope. The statue is so much more than a beautiful structure; it stands as a tells the story of the American dream. Whilst visiting, it is also customary to check out Ellis Island, where you can discover the background of what was once the busiest immigration point in America. In fact, 40 per cent of Americans can trace their roots back to the island. The most popular thing to do here is visit the National Museum of Immigration, but there are other great activities, such as the hard hat tours and boats trips which we highly recommend looking into. A totally fascinating and incredibly moving experience, this one is great for those of all ages. Though New York is known for its modern skyscrapers, the city is also home to many incredible venerable structures. For those who are interested in the constructural integrity of the city, we recommend a walk along the Brooklyn Bridge. For architecture lovers and history buffs alike, this attraction offers a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture; get up close, and you can view its commanding towers and steel cables in all of their glory. Today, the bridge still maintains its beauty and offers spectacular views of the cityscape and the East River. We suggest wearing your comfiest shoes and checking the weather beforehand since it’s a pretty long walk! Take in the Atmosphere No visit to New York is complete without exploring Central Park. Situated right in the heart of the city, this manmade urban green space draws in millions of visitors each year – and with good reason! A quintessential NYC attraction and the most filmed location in the world, the park is one of the most picturesque spots in the city. Still, we’d argue that it’s much more than just a pretty face; it’s actually home to myriads of interesting attractions, events and activities. Here, you can visit the zoo, historic gardens and landmarks, or even kayak. Whatever your interest, you’ll be sure to find it right in the middle of Central Park! If you’re visiting New York, then you can’t leave without seeing Grand Central Station. We don’t want to be labelled as shallow, but the first thing that stands out about this place is its incontestable beauty. Still, though, that isn’t all that Grand Central Station has to offer; under its historic roof, you’ll be able to find a wealth of great shopping and dining options. As a bonus, you can take the subway to your next destination to live your true New York life! Learn Something New Teeming with art and culture, New York is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the United States for creative types. Though the city presents an impressive wealth of art galleries, our top pick has got to be the Whiney for its expansive collection of modern and contemporary American art. Walking around the institution, visitors can view a first-class repository of over 25, 000 pieces across all mediums. The museum is located in the Meatpacking District, which is a trendy neighborhood with lots of great sites and food markets to be explored. Long recognized for its incredible museums, New York is a total treat for any visitors with a thirst for knowledge. Situated on the Upper West Side, the American Museum of Natural History seeks to cultivate fascination and intrigue in the world around us. Covering over 2 million square feet, the institution is known for holding the largest repository of its kind in the world. Inside, you’ll be able to view an impressive collection of over 34 million specimens, including Native American artefacts, dinosaur bones, and of course, its famous blue whale. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. There are endless things to do, see and experience in New York. Cultural institutions, major historical landmarks, and fantastic attractions – it’s all at your fingertips. Whilst you certainly wouldn’t run out of interesting activities, you might struggle to narrow down your itinerary. If you’re only visiting for a short time, we recommend planning ahead to make your trip a little less overwhelming. Still, whatever you choose to do, we know it’ll be great – it's New York City, after all! To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in New York for a Birthday

“It’s up to yoouuu, New York Ne-ew Yoooork!” Take it Frank! Make the promises of that karaoke classic come true. Because there’s nothing better than celebrating a birthday in New York City. And exactly how you celebrate is indeed up to you! Unwrap our suggestions, grab your sightseeing pass and start spreading the news...The Big Apple is too big for an exhaustive list but we hope you’ll be inspired by some of our best NYC birthday ideas. Treats we’ve wrapped up include: The best food in New York New York Harbor Cruises Luna Park on Coney Island Exploring Central Park Following in the footsteps of celebrities Taking in a Broadway show Hitting the high spots (including a New York helicopter flight) Posing for rooftop photoshoot and making memories Discover the best food in New York Let’s start as we mean to go on - filling our faces! Begin your day of celebration with breakfast the American way. Tuck into a tower of fluffy pancakes, served with crispy bacon, blueberries and a stream of sticky maple syrup. Enjoy eggs every way you can imagine. Bag bagels and cream cheese, biscuits and gravy, cinnamon rolls, English muffins, Belgian waffles, fruit salad - all washed down with unlimited caw-fee...Shall we stop yet? The Tick Tock Diner on 8th Avenue (corner of 34th) is not only the largest diner in NYC but serves breakfast around the clock. Happily, whatever the time of day, the melting pot of culture that is NYC means you can find pretty much any cuisine of your dreams - whether you’re satisfied with a street stall or looking to have your cake and eat it at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Pick up some tasty treats at multi-cultural Chelsea Market, in the heart of the funky Meatpacking District, renowned as one of the greatest indoor food markets in the world. Chefs and locals crowd this formerly industrial space to select prime cuts of meat, fresh fish and artisan cheese, whilst tourists stop by for premium burgers, Italian gelato, pizza, pastrami, bagels, hot dogs, Chinese, Korean BBQ...the list is deliciously endless... A Food on Foot Tour will help you discover even more authentic eateries and best kept snack secrets. Choose the Midtown Mix Tour to chow down like a local in Manhattan or the Go West Tour to discover the culinary diversity of historic Hell’s Kitchen. To enjoy the flavours of the neighbourhood known particularly for its Eastern European Jewish community, opt for a Tastes of the Lower East Side walking tour and pick up delicacies such as a true kosher pickle, a knish, a bialy and the famous black and white cookie. Cruise New York Harbor - fast or slow Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, why not push the birthday boat out - literally - with a morning or afternoon of leisurely sight-seeing aboard a Best of New York Circle Line Cruise? Whatever the time of year, indoor seats or a huge outdoor deck make it a fun yet relaxing way to tick off some of New York’s best sights. You’ll cruise all three rivers and see around 130 landmarks including the full Manhattan Skyline, the Yankee Stadium, Greenwich Village and the Financial District. If you’re tight for time, with more birthday fun to pull in, the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise is a shorter - 90 minute - tour of the premium views, including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building. Later, for a magical twilight finale to a special day, set sail on a Harbor Lights Cruise which departs just as the sun sets. An onboard bar serves beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks so you can raise a birthday toast as you watch that unforgettable skyline twinkle into life. If you’re celebrating a teen birthday - or simply feel the need for speed - maybe ditch the gentle cruise in favour of a blast from The Beast. Get on board this mean, green, jet-powered speedboat to roar down the Hudson river at speeds of up to 40 knots? It’s loud, it’s fast and, since the crew have been known to wield water guns, you’re likely to get wet! Whichever you choose, birthday candles can’t hold a torch to Lady Liberty. Fast or slow, all harbor cruises make time for mandatory photo opps of New York’s most famous icon. Smile please! Ride classic coasters at Coney Island If thrills and spills are your idea of birthday fun, how about a trip to Coney Island’s legendary Luna Park? From families with kids, to coaster connoisseurs, there’s something for everyone at this fun seaside destination, around 10 miles from the city. The first Luna Park, opened in 1903, was renowned for its ground-breaking attractions and the miracle that was electric lights. Although that park burned down in 1944 it inspired dozens more ‘lunaparks’ around the world and the amusement park that still stands on the site has all the colourful quirkiness of the original. Enjoy its timeless charm as you stroll the boardwalk, play the sideshows and thrill to rides including the 137ft Astro Tower, the Steeplechase coaster and the Brooklyn Flyer chair swing. Then brace yourself for launch as extreme thrill ride Slingshot catapults you into the air at 90mph. Luna Park is also home to the historic Cyclone Roller Coaster, a bone-shaking, breath-taking wooden coaster dating from 1927 that is registered as a New York City Landmark. Dare you ride? Explore Central Park Whether you’re looking for action on your special day or prefer more laid-back celebrations you’re sure to find a destination or activity to suit in Central Park, possibly the world’s most well-known urban green space and beloved by locals and tourists alike. Take a carriage tour, relax in a rowboat or get up close to the animals at the zoo...Perhaps you’ll get your legs pumping and your heart singing with a two-hour bike tour that takes in top sights like Belvedere Castle, the Imagine Mosaic and Strawberry Fields. Put your best foot forward on a walking tour of little known paths and ponds along with famous fountains and statues. Or simply pick up some snacks (and a birthday cake of course) and unwind with the perfect picnic. Follow in the footsteps of celebrities Whilst we’re in Central Park are you getting a niggling feeling that you’ve somehow been there before? To sort out the sights you’ve seen on screen try tagging along on a TV & Movie Sights tour. Where did Kevin meet the bird lady in Home Alone? Is that the bridge where Buddy throws snowballs in Elf? Shed light on locations from Love Story, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Enchanted and Glee to name a few...All so familiar. And super fun. If you love that kind of celebrity stalking, why stop at Central Park, when there’s a whole city awash with spots you’ll recognise from the big and small screens. Jump on an NYC TV and Movie Bus Tour to grab a selfie at classic locations like the Friends apartment building, the Ghostbusters Firehouse and familiar places from Ocean’s Eight, Spiderman and loads more... There’s even a special movie tour for fans of Marvel and DC Superheroes. Capes at the ready... Take in a Broadway show New York is known the world over for its sparkling theatre district. So grab your popcorn, get your feet a tappin’ and take your seats for a birthday performance. Even if you don’t know your jive from your jazz hands, with 41 Broadway theatres, each typically offering 8 performances a week, we’re confident you’ll find something you’ll enjoy. There are shows for literally every taste and age group, from straight drama, to comedy, performance art (the Blue Man Group) and original music (like the physical percussive show, Stomp). Or maybe, like most, you’ll opt for the magic of the musicals? Choose from family favourites like The Lion King, Aladdin or Wicked, or long-running classics like Phantom of the Opera or Chicago. Perhaps one of the big-name shows of recent years - think Hamilton or Come from Away - will capture your heart? To scout out the options or learn more about the area, the theatres and the stars, why not join a walking tour of Broadway and Times Square? From the glamour to the ghost stories, you’ll be centre stage for all the showbiz gossip, trivia and history. On your birthday, after all, the spotlight is on you! Hit some high spots Wheeee! A helicopter ride over New York is about as awesome as it gets. Unless you’re some kind of seasoned celebrity it’s an incredible once-in-a-lifetime thrill to soar above the skyscrapers for a unique, birds-eye view of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and all the rest.There are plenty of private tours on offer, usually including a commentary or fun facts. If you book at sunset you’re guaranteed all the glory of golden hour - though beware if the weather’s cloudy - it would suck to soar but not see... If your budget doesn’t stretch quite that far, take it to the top anyway by hitting one of the city’s many breathtaking observation decks. Gaze down at the distant hubbub from the dizzying heights of the Empire State Building’s 86th floor observatory. Or get a snap of the Manhattan skyline including the Empire State, by zooming up to the Top of the Rock observatory at the Rockefeller Centre. Make memories Whilst you’re feeling on top of the world, a rooftop photoshoot is a super-cool way to ensure a lasting memory of your special day. An expert photographer will capture the moment in a private session, as you pose against the backdrop of the World Trade Center. Or, to be even more original, create your own picture for posterity on a sketching tour with a New York City-based artist. You’ll get a drawing-pad and pencil along with a 90 minute tour of history, culture and the chance to sketch some Lower Manhattan landmarks including the Wall Street Bull, the Washington Monument and the Trinity Church Cemetery (final resting place of Alexander Hamilton.) Let's draw a line. We hope we’ve given you just a rough picture of the many places you might choose to pop a cork and blow out your candles in the buzzy, beautiful Big Apple. To discover some of them and many more New York attractions, pick up an All Inclusive Pass or an Explorer Pass, then sightsee, save and celebrate with Go City. It’ll feel like your birthday every day.
Jo Cooke

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