The 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, United States, stands as one of the most moving and historically significant sites in the country. Built to honor the nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lives lost in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, it occupies the original location of the Twin Towers in Lower Manhattan. Designed by architect Michael Arad and landscape architect Peter Walker, the memorial opened to the public in 2011, marking the tenth anniversary of the tragedy, while the museum followed in 2014. Today, it serves as both a place of remembrance and education, preserving the stories, artifacts, and lessons of that day for generations to come.

At the heart of the memorial are the Reflecting Absence twin pools—two vast waterfalls set within the footprints of the fallen towers. The names of every victim are engraved in bronze panels surrounding the pools, creating a powerful space for reflection. The museum, located beneath the plaza, houses an extensive collection of multimedia displays, recovered artifacts, and personal narratives that provide a deeply human perspective on the events of 9/11. Visitors can see steel beams twisted from the impact, the “Survivors’ Stairs” used by hundreds to escape, and hear firsthand accounts that bring history to life.

What makes the 9/11 Memorial & Museum unique is its blend of monumental design and intimate storytelling. Unlike many historical sites in the United States, it is both a living memorial and an educational institution. Few people know that the waterfalls are the largest man-made waterfalls in North America, designed to create a continuous sound that shields visitors from the surrounding city noise—allowing for quiet reflection in the midst of bustling Manhattan. Another lesser-known fact is that the memorial’s swamp white oak trees were carefully selected for their resilience and adaptability, symbolizing hope and renewal.

Today, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remains an active place of remembrance, research, and public engagement. Visitors are encouraged to approach the site with respect—photography is allowed, but quiet reflection is deeply valued. The memorial is free to visit and open daily, while the museum requires an admission ticket, with discounts available for seniors, students, and military members. The site is fully wheelchair-accessible, and audio guides in multiple languages are available. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended for a quieter experience.

Whether you are exploring historical sites in the United States, looking for meaningful things to see in New York City, or seeking to understand one of the most pivotal events in modern history, a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum offers a profound and unforgettable experience.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, United States, to experience one of the most important historical sites in the country. Featuring the powerful Reflecting Absence waterfalls, engraved victim names, and an extensive museum with artifacts from September 11, 2001, it is a must-see for those exploring things to do in New York and U.S. history tourism. A place of remembrance, education, and reflection, it offers visitors a moving insight into resilience and hope.

Brief History: The Last Column is a 36-foot-tall steel beam that was the final piece of steel removed from Ground Zero during the cleanup in May 2002. Workers and family members covered it with inscriptions, photographs, and memorials before it was removed. Notable Features: The beam is covered with handwritten messages, missing-person posters, and tribute items, making it both a physical and emotional artifact. Fun Fact: The removal of the Last Column was conducted in a solemn ceremony, with hundreds of workers, first responders, and families present—it marked the official end of recovery operations. Current Use or Visitor Info: Displayed inside the museum, it stands as a towering tribute to both the victims and the workers who undertook the massive recovery effort. Visitors can walk around it to see the various inscriptions and personal mementos.

The Last Column

View the Last Column at the 9/11 Museum—a 36-foot steel beam covered in tributes, marking the end of Ground Zero recovery efforts.

The Last Column

New York, United States

View the Last Column at the 9/11 Museum—a 36-foot steel beam covered in tributes, marking the end of Ground Zero recovery efforts.

Location