911 Memorial Museum+One World Trade Observation Deck+Statue 60 Min Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, you’ll find this combo ticket offers a practical way to cover some of the most iconic attractions in lower Manhattan. For around $36, you get access to the powerful 9/11 Memorial (with an optional museum upgrade), stunning panoramic views from the One World Trade Observation Deck, and a scenic cruise around the Statue of Liberty.

This package is especially appealing to first-time visitors who want an efficient way to experience key sights, or travelers who prefer the flexibility to organize their day at their own pace. While the experiences are generally well-received, some reviews highlight potential pitfalls, such as ticketing issues and value concerns. Overall, it’s a solid, budget-friendly way to see some of NYC’s most memorable landmarks—if you’re prepared for a bit of planning.

What we love about this experience is the freedom it offers—your tickets are valid for the entire duration, so you can visit the observation deck anytime during your stay. Plus, the cruise is a relaxing way to see the Statue of Liberty up close without the hassle of ferry lines. However, a noteworthy consideration is that the tour doesn’t include guided commentary, meaning you’ll be exploring these sites independently, which might not suit those seeking detailed guided insights.

This tour package is best suited for independent travelers, first-timers, or those on a budget who want to hit the highlights without overpaying for guided tours. If you’re comfortable navigating on your own and value flexibility, this combo can be a convenient choice.

Key Points

• Flexible access to the One World Trade Observation Deck makes it ideal for spontaneous visits.
• Upgrade options for the 9/11 Memorial to include museum tickets, allowing for a deeper understanding of the tragic events.
• Self-guided experience means you’ll explore at your own pace—no guided tours included.
• Cost-effective compared to booking individual tickets separately.
• Cruise around the Statue of Liberty offers a scenic, relaxed way to see the iconic statue close-up.
• Potential issues with ticketing, as some reviews report problems with receiving or redeeming tickets.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Starting at the 9/11 Memorial, you’ll encounter the twin reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers—an emotionally charged site that honours the lives lost. If you choose to upgrade, a visit to the Memorial Museum provides a more comprehensive look at the events of September 11, with exhibitions, artifacts, and personal stories that deepen the experience.

One reviewer, Angie_M, expressed mixed feelings, wishing she had purchased her tickets directly rather than through the tour provider. She praised the museum but found the combo package overpriced, especially considering her tour guide’s added cost. This highlights how ticketing and the value of guided elements might influence your experience.

One World Trade Observation Deck

Next, heading to the One World Trade Observation Deck gives you panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, New Jersey, and beyond. The flexible ticket allows you to visit anytime during your stay, which is ideal if you want to accommodate fluctuating plans or avoid long lines during peak hours.

Travelers like Jeff_S have expressed frustration about ticketing issues, noting they didn’t receive their tickets initially and had to buy them separately. While most reviews are positive about the views, be aware that self-guided visits mean you’ll miss out on guided commentary or interactive displays unless you explore on your own.

Statue of Liberty Cruise

Finally, the 60-minute sightseeing cruise departs from Pier 36, a short walk from both the memorial and the observation deck. This scenic boat trip provides close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. It’s a relaxed way to see these monuments without waiting in ferry lines or dealing with crowds.

One reviewer pointed out that the cruise was straightforward, but since the ticket doesn’t include stops at the Statue itself, it’s more about the views than a detailed visit. Many say this is ideal for those wanting a quick, scenic overview rather than an in-depth tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You get:
– 9/11 Memorial Museum tickets (if you choose the upgrade)
– One World Trade Observation Deck tickets (anytime during your stay)
– Statue of Liberty cruise

However:
– The tour does not include guided narration or a guided tour at any of the sites.
– The cruise does not stop at the Statue of Liberty, it’s a sightseeing cruise only.
– You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the starting points and manage ticket collection and validation on your own.

Practical Tips

• Since tickets are self-guided, arrive early or plan your visits during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
• Check your email for the cruise ticket; reviews indicate some travelers experienced issues with receiving or using tickets.
• If you want to explore the 9/11 Museum more thoroughly, consider upgrading your tickets or buying directly at the site.
• The combo price is budget-friendly compared to individual tickets, but some travelers found it overpriced considering the lack of guided commentary.

Real Voices from Travelers

One negative review from Jeff_S recounts a frustrating experience where he didn’t receive his tickets initially and had to purchase them separately, describing the process as “borderline criminal.” This underscores the importance of verifying ticket delivery or considering direct purchase for peace of mind.

Conversely, many visitors appreciated the value for money, especially given the flexibility to visit the observation deck at their convenience. The cruise, in particular, was highlighted as a relaxed, scenic highlight that didn’t require additional planning.

Angie_M’s comment reminds us that purchasing tickets directly at each site might sometimes be more effective, especially if you’re worried about the reliability of third-party providers.

The Sum Up

This combo ticket offers a practical, budget-conscious way to experience some of NYC’s most iconic sights. With the ability to visit the One World Trade Observation Deck when it suits you, and the opportunity to reflect at the 9/11 Memorial (with optional museum access), travelers gain a meaningful snapshot of Lower Manhattan’s history and skyline.

The Statue of Liberty cruise adds a scenic, leisurely element to your day, perfect for those who prefer seeing landmarks from the water. The main advantage lies in the flexibility and self-guided nature, allowing you to tailor your itinerary around your interests and pace.

However, the lack of guided commentary means you’ll need to do some reading or research on your own to fully appreciate the sites. Also, the reviews highlight some risks with ticket delivery and value perception, so keep an eye on your email confirmations and consider buying tickets directly if you’re concerned about these issues.

This tour is ideal for independent travelers seeking a flexible, affordable way to cover key Lower Manhattan sites without guided tours or guided commentary. It suits those comfortable navigating NYC’s transportation system and managing their itinerary independently.

FAQs

Does this tour include guided tours at each site?
No, this is a self-guided experience. You receive tickets that you can use any time during your stay, but there are no guided tours included.

Can I visit the One World Trade Observation Deck anytime?
Yes, your ticket is valid for use at any time during your stay, offering flexible planning.

Is the Statue of Liberty cruise a stop at the island?
No, it’s a sightseeing cruise that circles around the Statue of Liberty, providing close-up views but not an actual stop to disembark.

Are the tickets for the 9/11 Memorial Museum included?
You can choose the upgrade option to include museum tickets. Otherwise, entry to the museum is not included.

What should I do if I don’t receive my tickets?
Some reviews mention issues with ticket delivery. It’s best to check your email promptly and contact the supplier if needed. Consider purchasing tickets directly from the venues if you prefer certainty.

Can I visit the attractions on different days?
Yes, since your tickets are valid for the duration of your stay, you can spread out your visits over two days if you like.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, since it’s self-guided and doesn’t involve guided tours or physical exertion, it can be suitable for families. Just be aware that the 9/11 site is emotionally impactful.

Are there any discounts or special offers?
The listed price is $36; check directly with the provider or retailer for possible discounts or package deals.

Is public transportation nearby?
Yes, all three sites are close to public transit options, making it easy to get around without a car.

In summary, this combo ticket offers a flexible, budget-friendly way to see some of the most significant sights in Lower Manhattan. While it’s not perfect—especially regarding ticketing issues—it provides a good foundation for independent explorers wanting to craft their own NYC adventure. If you’re comfortable managing your visit and value the ability to visit multiple attractions at your own pace, this could be a great option for your trip.