The NYC: 9/11 Ground Zero America Rising Walking Tour offers a powerful 2-hour experience, guiding visitors through the significant sites related to the tragic events of September 11th. This tour provides a profound opportunity to explore the resilience and hope that emerged from one of America’s darkest days, offering a meaningful journey of remembrance for those seeking to understand the lasting impact of this pivotal moment in history.
Key Points

- This 2-hour guided walking tour visits 8 significant sites related to the September 11th attacks in New York City.
- The tour is priced at $35 per person, is conducted in English, and is wheelchair accessible.
- Highlights include visiting the 9/11 Memorial Pools, observing the Survivor Tree, and hearing stories from eyewitnesses.
- The tour features skip-the-line access through express security checks and is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
- Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Tour Overview

The NYC: 9/11 Ground Zero America Rising Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided experience that takes visitors to 8 significant sites related to the September 11th attacks.
Priced from $35 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.
The meeting point is the Starbucks Reserve Bar inside Brookfield Place, where a guide wearing a white Junket t-shirt with a flag will be present.
Visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes an express security check to skip lines and is recommended for those able to walk over a mile.
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Booking Information

Visitors can reserve their spot on the NYC: 9/11 Ground Zero America Rising Walking Tour with no upfront payment.
Visitors can reserve their spot on the NYC: 9/11 Ground Zero America Rising Walking Tour with no upfront payment.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests should check availability for preferred starting times.
This 2-hour walking tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible. No transportation is included, but the tour provides an express security check to skip lines.
An optional guide tip is appreciated. The tour operates rain or shine, so visitors should dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.
Experience Highlights

On this 2-hour walking tour, guests will visit 8 significant sites related to the September 11th attacks.
They’ll hear stories of heroism and kindness from that day, reflecting at the 9/11 Memorial Pools and seeing damaged artifacts.
The tour also includes:
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A visit to St. Paul’s Chapel, known as "The Little Chapel that Stood."
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Observing the survivor tree, a symbol of resilience.
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An express security check to skip lines.
This guided tour is led by a knowledgeable local with credible eyewitness stories.
While transportation isn’t included, tips for the guide are optional.
Tour Features

This guided tour is led by a knowledgeable local with credible eyewitness stories. Guests can skip the lines with express security checks.
The tour includes an optional guide tip, though transportation isn’t provided. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, as it requires walking over a mile.
Prohibited items include smoking, alcohol, drugs, and video recording. The tour operates rain or shine, so attendees should dress appropriately.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information

Attendees should bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Smoking, alcohol, drugs, and video recording are prohibited during the tour.
Visitors should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking over a mile.
The tour highlights include:
-
Viewing the 9/11 Memorial Pools and damaged artifacts.
-
Observing the survivor tree, a symbol of resilience.
-
Hearing stories of heroism and kindness from eyewitnesses.
Visit to the 9/11 Memorial Pools
As visitors approach the 9/11 Memorial Pools, they’re immediately struck by the sheer size and significance of the twin memorial fountains. The pools sit in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, a powerful visual representation of the devastation and loss. Visitors can reflect at the bronze panels engraved with the names of the victims, a somber reminder of the tragedy.
| Site | Feature | Significance |
| — | — | — |
| 9/11 Memorial Pools | Cascading waterfalls | Symbolize the infinite absence of those killed |
| | Bronze panels with names | Honor the memory of the victims |
| | Subterranean footprints | Mark the locations of the original towers |
The pools stand as a poignant tribute, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and remember the events of that fateful day.
Reflection at St. Paul’s Chapel

Situated just steps from the 9/11 Memorial Pools, St. Paul’s Chapel stands as a symbol of resilience. This "Little Chapel that Stood" was miraculously unharmed despite being in the shadow of the Twin Towers.
Visitors can reflect on:
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The chapel’s crucial role as a relief center, providing food, rest, and medical care to recovery workers for months after the attacks.
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The stirring display of memorials, tributes, and mementos left by visitors over the years, honoring the victims and celebrating human dignity.
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The tree outside the chapel, known as the "Survivor Tree," which was recovered from the rubble and now stands as a living symbol of hope.
Observing the Survivor Tree

The iconic "Survivor Tree" stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope amidst the somber 9/11 Memorial. This resilient Callery pear tree endured the devastation of 9/11, buried under the rubble for months, yet miraculously sprouted new branches and leaves. The tree was carefully recovered, nursed back to health, and replanted at the memorial site, where it continues to thrive as a living testament to the indomitable spirit of New Yorkers. As visitors observe the tree, they are reminded of the capacity for renewal and the triumph of life over tragedy.
| Survivor Tree Facts | |
| — | — |
| Original Planting | 1970s |
| Recovered From Rubble | 2001 |
| Transplanted to Memorial | 2010 |
| Height | 30 feet |
| Trunk Diameter | 8 inches |
Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Guide a Survivor or First Responder?
The tour guide is not specifically stated to be a survivor or first responder. The description indicates the guide is a knowledgeable local who can provide credible eyewitness stories about the events of September 11th.
Can I Bring a Camera to Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can bring a camera to take photos during the tour, but video recording is prohibited. The tour features many significant sites, so photography is allowed to capture the experience.
Is There a Discount Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The standard price is $35 per person, and there are no special rates available based on age or student status.
Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance or Can I Pay on the Day?
Tickets can be booked in advance without upfront payment, allowing for flexibility. Visitors also have the option to pay on the day of the tour, subject to availability. Either way, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours prior.
Is the Tour Appropriate for Young Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children. It covers sensitive topics related to 9/11 and involves walking over a mile, which could be challenging for young kids. Parents should use their discretion based on their child’s age and maturity level.
The Sum Up
The NYC: 9/11 Ground Zero America Rising Walking Tour offers a meaningful and insightful experience, allowing visitors to reflect on the resilience and hope that emerged from the tragic events of September 11th. With access to significant sites, including the 9/11 Memorial Pools and the Survivor Tree, this tour provides a profound journey of remembrance and understanding.
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