The Ground Zero Walking Tour and 9/11 Museum Ticket offers visitors a profound and moving exploration of the World Trade Center complex and the harrowing events of September 11, 2001. Through this experience, you will learn about the heroic actions of first responders, uncover extraordinary personal stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the tragedy and resilience that defined that fateful day. With the tour’s focus on the innovative design of the new World Trade Center, this poignant journey provides a thoughtful and reflective experience for all who choose to partake.
Key Points

- Guided tour of the World Trade Center Complex, including the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, to explore the events and heroic stories of 9/11.
- Skip-the-ticket-line access to the One World Observatory, providing a panoramic view of the World Trade Center site.
- Discover the inspiring stories of the ‘9/11 surfer’ and the ‘Angel of Stairwell B,’ who exemplified resilience and compassion during the tragedy.
- Learn about the innovative architectural design of the new World Trade Center, which stands as a symbol of hope and progress.
- Experience the poignant and reflective atmosphere of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, honoring the lives lost on that fateful day.
Tour Overview

This guided tour of the World Trade Center Complex provides a 2-hour exploration of the events and heroes surrounding the September 11, 2001 attacks.
The tour includes admission to the self-guided 9/11 Memorial Museum, where historical photos and posters help narrate the day’s harrowing occurrences. Guests will learn about the bravery of New York City firefighters and discover the remarkable stories of the ‘9/11 surfer‘ and the ‘Angel of Stairwell B.’
The tour also covers the new World Trade Center Complex design and construction, giving visitors a comprehensive understanding of this significant site.
With a focus on both the tragedy and resilience of 9/11, this tour provides an immersive and educational experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New York City
Tour Highlights

The tour highlights the bravery of New York City firefighters, who risked their lives to save others during the September 11th attacks.
Visitors will also discover the remarkable stories of the ‘9/11 surfer’ and the ‘Angel of Stairwell B’, two individuals whose actions inspired hope amidst the tragedy.
The tour explores the new World Trade Center Complex design and construction, showcasing the resilience and determination of the city.
Key highlights of the tour include:
- Learning about the heroic efforts of first responders on 9/11.
- Discovering the miraculous stories of the ‘9/11 surfer’ and the ‘Angel of Stairwell B’.
- Exploring the innovative architectural design of the new World Trade Center.
- Gaining a deeper understanding of the events and impact of September 11, 2001.
Inclusions

The tour includes guided exploration of the World Trade Center complex, along with admission to the 9/11 Memorial Museum for self-guided exploration. Plus, visitors receive skip-the-ticket-line access to the One World Observatory.
The tour offers the following inclusions:
| Inclusion | Details |
|---|---|
| Guided Tour | Covers the World Trade Center |
| 9/11 Memorial Museum Ticket | Self-guided exploration |
| One World Observatory | Skip-the-ticket-line access |
| Meeting Point | Starbucks at 20 Dey Street |
These comprehensive inclusions provide visitors with a meaningful and efficient experience at the World Trade Center site.
Meeting Point

Visitors meet at the Starbucks Coffee Shop located at 20 Dey Street to begin the guided tour of the World Trade Center complex.
This convenient meeting point is just a short walk from the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, making it easy for participants to find the tour group.
The tour guide will be waiting at the Starbucks, ready to lead the group on an informative and emotional journey through the history of the site.
The meeting point offers several benefits:
- Centralized location near the tour’s main attractions
- Well-known landmark that’s easy to find
- Opportunity to grab a coffee or snack before the tour
- Meeting place for the group to assemble before starting the tour
Duration and Availability
The tour’s duration is 4.5 hours, and it’s available at various starting times throughout the day.
Participants can check the tour’s availability and select a convenient starting time that fits their schedule.
The tour is offered on a regular basis, so visitors have the flexibility to choose a timeslot that works best for them.
Whether you’re an early bird or prefer a mid-day excursion, there are multiple options to accommodate different preferences.
The tour’s duration provides ample time to explore the World Trade Center complex and the 9/11 Memorial Museum at a comfortable pace, ensuring a comprehensive and meaningful experience for all participants.
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in New York City
New York City Firefighters
Among the many heroic individuals who responded to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, New York City firefighters demonstrated remarkable bravery and selflessness in the face of unimaginable danger. Their actions that day have become the stuff of legend, and this tour provides an opportunity to learn about their courageous deeds:
The rescue efforts of firefighters who rushed into the collapsing towers, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.
The heroism of firefighters who helped evacuate thousands of people from the buildings, often risking their own lives.
The resilience and determination of firefighters who continued search and rescue operations for weeks after the attacks.
The enduring legacy of the firefighters who lost their lives, remembered as symbols of courage and resilience.
9/11 Surfer’ and ‘Angel of Stairwell B

Amidst the harrowing events of 9/11, the stories of the ‘9/11 surfer’ and the ‘Angel of Stairwell B’ stand out as beacons of hope and resilience. On that fateful day, these individuals exemplified the human capacity for courage and compassion in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
The ‘9/11 surfer’, a Wall Street trader, miraculously rode an office chair down a 15th-floor stairwell to safety. Meanwhile, the ‘Angel of Stairwell B’, a financial firm’s executive assistant, selflessly guided over 70 people to safety before perishing in the collapse.
| Hero | Heroic Act |
|---|---|
| ‘9/11 Surfer’ | Rode office chair down 15th-floor stairwell to safety |
| ‘Angel of Stairwell B’ | Guided over 70 people to safety before perishing in collapse |
These remarkable stories remind us of the resilience and heroism that emerged from the darkest day in our nation’s history.
New World Trade Center Design
The new World Trade Center complex, designed to rise from the ashes of the 9/11 attacks, embodies a spirit of resilience and renewal. Its innovative architecture and thoughtful memorials aim to honor the lives lost while looking towards the future.
One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, with its iconic glass and steel design.
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum, which provides a solemn and reflective space to remember the tragedy.
The Oculus, a breathtaking transportation hub with a grand, wing-like structure.
The new World Trade Center campus, designed to revitalize the area and serve as a symbol of hope and progress.
Recap
The Ground Zero Walking Tour and 9/11 Museum Ticket offers a profound and insightful experience for visitors.
It provides a comprehensive exploration of the tragic events of 9/11, honoring the heroism of first responders and highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.
The tour also showcases the innovative design of the new World Trade Center, offering a poignant and reflective journey through this significant chapter in New York City’s history.
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