One World Trade Center view from the 125 Greenwich Street skyscraper
One World Trade Center (also known as One World Trade, One WTC, and formerly Freedom Tower) is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan, New York City. In American units, the tower is 1776 feet high, an emblematic figure because it pays homage to the date of the declaration of independence of the United States.The number of tickets is limited by scheduled turns, which means, that visitors must buy their tickets in advance. If not, the waiting line can be several hours long. To avoid wasting time in boring and exhausting queues, we recommend you pre-book your tickets.
Also located directly on Ground Zero is the 9/11 Museum and Memorial. The museum documents the 2001 terrorist attack and features 10,000 artifacts and interviews with 2,000 eyewitnesses.
The combined or all-inclusive ticket gets you through security and into one of the elevators faster, so the extra cost is worth it if you’re short on time or patience. Tickets for the One World Observatory are included in the city tickets Sightseeing Pass NYC & Flex and FreeStyle Pass, which is worthwhile when visiting various attractions in the city. This can be combined with a visit to the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
How to best experience One World Trade Center?
Discover tickets, tours, and activities for One World Trade Center through these providers:
Best One World Trade Center Tickets
Tickets for One World Observatory: Skip The Ticket Line
/5Breathtaking 360° views of New York from the Freedom Tower!
As low as
€46.99
on Tiqets.com
Tickets for One World Observatory: Skip All Lines
/5Get priority entrance into the tallest building in the Western hemisphere!
As low as
€56.87
on Tiqets.com
Tickets for One World Observatory: All Inclusive Flex Package
/5Enjoy priority access, flexible entry, and $15 worth of drinks and souvenirs
As low as
€67.61
on Tiqets.com
New York City: The Sightseeing FLEX Pass
/5Discover the best of New York City with an easy-to-use Sightseeing Flex Pass. Enjoy access to more than 100 of the biggest landmark destinations, experiences, and museums. With the option to choose up to 12 attractions, you can customize your itinerary.
As low as
€73.14
on GetYourGuide.com
Best One World Trade Center Tours
Tickets for Ground Zero All-Access Guided Tour + One World Observatory
/5Take a guided visit of Ground Zero and the One World Observatory
As low as
€77.87
on Tiqets.com
One World Observatory and World Trade Center Tour
/5Many 9/11 tours bypass less-known landmarks and head only to the most popular, leaving you with only half of the story. This One World Observatory and World Trade Center tour gives you an immersive look at the monuments of September 11th, including St. Peter's Chapel, American Express 11 Tears Memorial, and the Fireman’s Memorial. Plus, finish your tour at One World Observatory, 102 stories above the city.
As low as
€79.06
on Viator.com
One World Trade Center: a Soaring Symbol
One World Trade Center in New York, also known as the Freedom Tower, stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Soaring to a height of 1,776 feet, a figure symbolic of the year of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, it holds the title of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. This architectural marvel not only offers expansive views of the New York City skyline but also houses offices, an observatory, and a variety of tenant amenities. For visitors, the 360-degree observatory on the 100th to 102nd floors offers breathtaking views across Manhattan and beyond. The site also includes the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, enhancing its significance as a tourist destination. It’s a testament to modern engineering and a poignant site for reflection, making it a must-visit for tourists coming to New York City. The building’s design integrates advanced safety and sustainability features positioning it as a beacon of the new downtown skyline, symbolizing hope and rebirth.
Exploring the Skies from the One World Observatory
One World Trade Center’s One World Observatory offers an unmatched experience in Manhattan’s skyline. Positioned on the 100th to 102nd floors, the observatory provides visitors with a unique opportunity to view the city from above. The elevator ride to the top, known as the Sky Pod Elevator, displays a time-lapse evolution of New York City’s skyline from the 1600s to the present. Once at the top, apart from the stunning views, visitors can engage with interactive exhibits that explain the city’s history and the reconstruction of the site. Another highlight is the ‘See Forever’ Theater, which presents a beautiful digital skyline experience. For those looking to enhance their visit, there is an option to dine at the One Dine restaurant, where guests can savor high-quality cuisine with the city laid out beneath them. The observatory is not just a marvel of sightseeing but also an educational journey, making it a profound stop in any New York City tour.
The Luminous Beacon Art Installation
Adding another layer to the visitor experience at One World Trade Center is the remarkable Beacon art installation. Situated at the spire base of the building, the Beacon encompasses a powerful radius of light that can be seen up to miles away. At night, this transforms the tower into a radiant symbol of hope and unity. This feature is particularly moving when considered in the context of the Freedom Tower’s significant role in the rebuilding efforts post-9/11. The Beacon serves as a reminder not only of the city’s resilience but also its ever-forward march toward the future. Designed to be a permanent fixture in the New York City skyline, the Beacon offers a poignant reminder of both past and promise. This art installation, while primarily functional, has quickly become one of the notable visual aspects of the building, captivating both locals and visitors alike, reinforcing its status as a pivotal landmark in Manhattan.
Explore the iconic one world trade center
Suitable for all ages, One World Trade Center offers a dynamic experience for families, couples, and seniors. Just a visit to its observatory provides a panoramic view of the city, making it a must-see for both first-time visitors and returning admirers looking for a unique perspective of New York City.
Discover the best time to experience one world trade center
The spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best times to visit One World Trade Center due to the mild weather and lighter crowds compared to the bustling summer months. Visiting during these times allows for a more comfortable exploration of its spaces and less wait for attractions like the observatory.
Annual Events
One particularly special event to consider is the 9/11 Memorial ceremony held annually. This event is a moving and meaningful occasion, offering visitors a profound connection to the history of the site.
Understanding accessibility and limitations
Accessbility
Limitations
- Age Restrictions: Some sections require minimum age of 12.
- Bag Size: Large baggage not allowed.
- Photography: No flash photography in certain exhibits.
Notes to visitors
- Be prepared for security screening.
- Comfortable footwear recommended due to extensive walking.
- Guided tours are offered in multiple languages to help overcome any language barriers.
General informations
Details for your visit to one world trade center
Location
Nestled among the skyline of Lower Manhattan, One World Trade Center is easily accessible by various modes of transport. Nearby notable landmarks include the Statue of Liberty and Wall Street.
Address: 285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, USA
Opening hours
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Transportation Guide to one world trade center
Car
One World Trade Center is accessible by car, with several parking garages in close proximity.
| Route | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| From Newark Airport | 16 miles (26 km) | 30 minutes |
| From JFK Airport | 20 miles (32 km) | 45 minutes |
| From Hoboken, NJ | 5 miles (8 km) | 20 minutes |
Public Transportation
One World Trade Center is also highly accessible by subway, with several major lines stopping nearby.
Nearby Attractions
Experience these attractions within walking distance:
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum – 0.1 mile (0.16 km)
- Liberty Park – 0.2 miles (0.32 km)
- Brooklyn Bridge – 1.2 miles (1.9 km)
- Battery Park – 1.4 miles (2.25 km)
- Ellis Island – 4.5 miles (7.24 km)
- Statue of Liberty – 5 miles (8.05 km)
- Wall Street – 0.5 miles (0.8 km)
- South Street Seaport – 0.7 miles (1.12 km)
- Chinatown – 1.5 miles (2.41 km)
- Little Italy – 1.6 miles (2.57 km)
- Soho Shopping District – 1.7 miles (2.74 km)
- Greenwich Village – 2 miles (3.22 km)
Common questions
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Is the One World Trade Center in Manhattan worth visiting?
One World Trade Center, standing as a beacon in Manhattan’s skyline, holds significant emotional and architectural value. For tourists, the prospect of visiting this site can evoke a mix of reverence and awe due to its historical significance tied to the tragic events of 9/11. The observatory at the top provides panoramic views of New York City, which alone can be a majestic experience, particularly for first-time visitors.
However, it’s important to note the potential drawbacks. The main issues are the high entry cost and the possibility of large crowds, which can detract from the experience. Those looking for a quieter, yet equally enriching experience might consider visiting nearby alternatives like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, which offers a profound understanding of the site’s history without the bustle of the One World Observatory.
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