The private 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero Walking Tour offers a somber yet profound experience. Led by guides with personal connections to the events, the tour explores significant sites around Ground Zero. Participants can learn about the tragedy and commemoration through poignant narratives. An optional upgrade allows visitors to ascend to the One World Observatory, providing breathtaking views of the city. Designed to be accessible and thoughtful, this tour is a meaningful way to engage with an important chapter of New York’s history.
Key Points

- Private guided walking tour of 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero, led by a guide with a personal connection to the events.
- Option to upgrade and visit the One World Observatory for panoramic city views.
- Tour includes significant sites like Fireman’s Memorial, St. Paul’s Chapel, and the twin reflecting pools.
- Tour duration is approximately 1 hour, with additional time for the One World Observatory visit.
- High traveler recommendation rate for a thoughtful and impactful experience.
Tour Overview
This private 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero walking tour in New York City provides a personalized experience led by a guide with a direct connection to the events of September 2001.
The tour includes significant sites like the Fireman’s Memorial, St. Paul’s Chapel, and the twin reflecting pools of the National 9/11 Memorial.
Travelers have the option to upgrade and visit the One World Observatory, which offers stunning city views from the 100th-floor observation deck.
With a high traveler recommendation rate, this tour offers a thoughtful and impactful way to learn about and reflect on the tragic events of that day.
Into exploring New York City on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at
Tour Details

The tour duration is approximately 1 hour for the main tour, with additional time allotted for the optional visit to the One World Observatory.
The meeting point is St. Paul’s Chapel, 209 Broadway, New York, NY 10007, and the tour ends at the One World Observatory, 117 West St, New York, NY 10007.
The walking tour includes narrated experiences and personal accounts of the September 2001 attacks.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Children 5 and under can attend for free with a paid adult ticket.
Gratuities and upgradable 9/11 Museum entry are available on-site.
What’s Included

The tour includes a private guide with a personal connection to the events of September 2001.
Participants receive optional admission to the One World Observatory, allowing them to skip the lines.
Gratuities and upgradable 9/11 Museum entry are available on-site.
Children 5 and under are free with a paid adult ticket.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
Experience Highlights

The tour begins at St. Paul’s Chapel, a historic sanctuary that served as a haven for rescue workers in the aftermath of 9/11.
Visitors then proceed to the National 9/11 Memorial, where they can view the twin reflecting pools and pay their respects at the Fireman’s Memorial.
Along the way, the guide shares personal accounts and insights into the tragic events of September 2001.
Participants have the option to upgrade their experience with entry to the One World Observatory, offering stunning panoramic views from the 100th-floor observation deck.
Reviews and Feedback

According to the available reviews, the private 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero tour has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 52 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the guide’s knowledge and the personalized nature of the tour. However, some reviewers have criticized the value for money and tour length. Larger public tours are available at a lower cost for those seeking a more budget-friendly option.
| Review Highlights | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Guide Knowledge | ✓ | – |
| Tour Personalization | ✓ | – |
| Value for Money | – | ✓ |
| Tour Length | – | ✓ |
| Group Size Options | – | ✓ |
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in New York City
- Private Central Park Pedicab Tour
- Private Hop on Hop off Central Park Pedicab Tour
- Private NYC Central Park Horse Carriage Ride (Guided) Since 1965™
- NYC Professional Photoshoot and Walking Tour With Private Guide
- NYC Private Walking Tour: Local Insights, History & Food
- Private JFK Airport Transfer / New York City (One Way)
Preparing for the Tour

When preparing for the private 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero tour, visitors should consider a few key details.
-
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves extensive walking around the memorial sites.
-
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the meaningful moments and sights during the tour.
-
Arrive at the meeting point, St. Paul’s Chapel, a few minutes early to ensure a prompt start.
-
Be prepared to listen attentively to the guide’s personal accounts and insights, which provide a deeply personal perspective on the events of September 2001.
Exploring One World Observatory

If visitors opt to upgrade their 9/11 Memorial tour experience, they can then explore the One World Observatory.
The observatory is located at the top of the One World Trade Center, providing stunning 360-degree views of New York City. Guests can access the 100th-floor observation deck, which offers an unparalleled panoramic perspective of the city skyline.
This upgrade allows visitors to bypass long lines, ensuring efficient entry and more time to take in the breathtaking sights.
The observatory experience complements the poignant 9/11 memorial tour, offering a chance to reflect on the city’s resilience and progress.
Personalizing Your Experience

The private 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero tour offers visitors a personalized experience to commemorate the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
This tour is led by a guide with a personal connection to the 2001 attacks, providing a unique and emotional perspective.
The tour includes several key highlights:
- Visiting the Fireman’s Memorial to honor the brave first responders.
- Exploring the serene St. Paul’s Chapel, a sanctuary for rescue workers after 9/11.
- Reading the names of the victims inscribed on the memorial walls.
- Upgrading to the One World Observatory for stunning views of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Guests are generally permitted to take photographs during the tour, as long as they are respectful of the solemn nature of the memorial sites. However, specific policies may vary, so it is best to confirm with the tour provider prior to the visit.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Visitors With Disabilities?
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, indicating it is designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Specific details about accessibility features or assistance available are not provided in the overview.
Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The tour is suitable for young children, as it includes accessibility features like wheelchair and stroller access. Children 5 and under can attend for free with a paid adult ticket.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations may result in partial or no refunds. It’s important to review the policy before booking to understand the terms.
Are There Any Health or Safety Precautions in Place?
The tour provider follows all local health and safety guidelines. Mask wearing and social distancing may be required. Visitors should bring their own masks and be prepared to adhere to any COVID-19 precautions in place at the time of the tour.
The Sum Up
The Private 9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero Walking Tour offers a moving and personalized experience, led by a guide with a connection to the events of September 2001. The tour provides an opportunity to reflect on this significant historical moment, while the optional One World Observatory visit offers breathtaking city views. Suitable for families, the tour is highly rated for its thoughtful and accessible approach.
More Private Tours in New York City
- Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers
- From NYC -Private Transfer From NYC Airports to Hotels
- From NYC: Private Washington & Philadelphia Tour in 1 Day
- NYC: JFK Airport to Manhattan or Brooklyn Private Transfer
- JFK Airport: Private Transfer to New York City
- New York: Louis Armstrong Private Walking Tour with Concert
More Tours in New York City
- NYC: Midtown Manhattan Pedicab Tour
- New York City: Museum at Eldridge Street Docent-Led Tour
- NYC: Virtual “Friends” Tour (On Location Tours)
- From NYC: Boston, Cambridge & Freedom Trail Day Tour
- From NYC: Private Washington & Philadelphia Tour in 1 Day
- True Crime New York: NYPD-Guided Mafia Walking Tour w/ Food
More Tour Reviews in New York City
Still browsing? Here are more New York City experiences we've covered recently
- 3 Top-Rated New York City Historical Tours
- You’ll Love These 7 Walking Tours In New York City
- 14 Of The Best Tours In New York City
- 14 Best Tours & Experiences In New York City
- Which New York City City Tours To Choose? We Rank The 10 Best
- 5 Must-Try Bike Tours In New York City
- Which New York City Bike Rentals To Choose? Our Best 5 Picks
- From New York: Niagara Falls and Washington DC 3-Day Trip
- New York City: Central Park Bike Rental
- Central Park Bike Rental
- Central Park Electric Bike Rental
- Central Park, Rockefeller & Times Carriage Ride (4 Adults)
