Musement takes a look at the World Trade Center sites that commemorate 9/11.
The events of September 11 changed the world, and the rebuilding of the World Trade Center site has become a must visit for anyone in New York as a way to pay their respects to the victims and heroes of that day. Here’s a look at what the World Trade Center site offers:
National September 11 Memorial and Museum
The Memorial: The poignant September 11 Memorial is on the actual site where the twin towers once stood. There is no admission fee to visit the memorial, which commemorates the 3,000 people who died during both 26 February 1993 World Trade Center and the nationwide September 11, 2001 attacks. The names are stenciled into the bronze parapets that surround the two reflecting pools with waterfalls in the foundations of where the buildings once stood. At night, light beams from below illuminating the names of those who perished.
The Museum: Located among the remnants of the original World Trade Center, the September 11 Museum houses more than 3,000 artifacts along with multimedia that document the day’s events. It’s divided into four main exhibition spaces: Foundation Hall, Memorial Hall, Pavilion and the Ramp. In addition to the permanent collection, there are often temporary art exhibitions displayed tied to the day. Tickets required for admission.
One World Observatory
One World Observatory sits on top of One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower (its original name) or One WTC. The distinct skyscraper is currently the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and second tallest in the world, standing opposite the northwest corner of Ground Zero, where the original tower of the same name once stood. Special skypod elevators take visitors to the top in 60 seconds as a timelapse video depicts 500 years of New York’s history. From the three-story observatory, you can see all five boroughs, New Jersey and the surrounding waters, and the various levels are filled with interactive and inspirational displays. Tickets required for admission.
The 9/11 Tribute Museum
The 9/11 Tribute Museum is not to be confused with the aforementioned National September 11 Museum and Memorial. Located a few blocks from the World Trade Center site, the 9/11 Tribute Museum is a riveting experience, showcasing stories from the rescue workers and the victims’ families. Tickets required for admission. (92 Greenwich S)
The Oculus
While in the neighborhood, the Santiago-Calatrava-designed Oculus is worth a visit. The striking structure is the World Trade Center Transportation Hub and home to Westfield Mall shopping center. The top windows along the spine were built to align with the sun shines at 10.28am on September 11th, the exact time the first tower collapsed. To commemorate the tragedy, the windows at this time on September 11th, so that a slice of sunlight shines through.