Edge Observation 911 Memorial Museum or Statue of Liberty Cruise

Exploring New York City can feel overwhelming, especially with so many iconic sights packed into a small area. This tour offers a practical way to experience some of the city’s most popular attractions without the hassle of long lines or complicated planning. It combines a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Edge Observation Deck, and a Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island cruise—all with a straightforward ticket package.

What really stands out about this experience is its convenience. You get skip-the-line tickets for the museum and the observation deck, helping you save precious time. Plus, the flexible scheduling allows you to choose among several start times throughout the day, making it easier to fit into your itinerary.

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a guided tour—it’s primarily a ticket package, so if you prefer a tour with a guide sharing insights throughout, you might need to look elsewhere. This experience is best suited for travelers who want to explore independently but prefer to skip long queues and streamline their day. Ideal for first-timers or those with limited time, this package offers a solid overview of NYC’s must-see landmarks.

Key Points

• Time-saving skip-the-line tickets at major attractions reduce wait times significantly.
• Flexibility in scheduling means you can select a tour time that fits your plans.
• Includes a cruise option for views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, adding a scenic element to your day.
• Not guided: You’ll explore on your own, so some background knowledge might be missed.
• Cost-effectiveness: For $89.99, you gain access to three notable sites—making it a good value if you prefer independence.
• Traveler reviews highlight convenience and informative displays, though some have experienced issues with booking logistics.

An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers

This combo ticket package is designed to give visitors a streamlined way to visit multiple landmarks, all while avoiding the typical lines that can eat up valuable sightseeing time. Let’s go through each part to understand what you can expect and how they fit together.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a sobering yet essential experience for many visitors. With this package, you skip the lines—an advantage that can save you at least 30-60 minutes during busy periods. The museum’s new exhibit, “The Hunt for Bin Laden,” adds an interactive dimension to understanding the events of the past, complemented by personal stories and artifacts that make history feel more tangible.

Based on reviews, visitors like Chloe_O appreciated how smoothly the entry process was, praising the informative displays explaining the construction and significance of the site. She found these details engaging and helpful in understanding the memorial’s importance.

However, one reviewer, Daniel_L, expressed frustration with booking logistics, noting that issues with QR codes and reservation management can sometimes cause stress and potential financial loss. It’s a reminder to double-check your confirmation details and be prepared for any technical hiccups.

The Edge Observation Deck

Perched 100 stories high, the Edge Observation Deck offers some of the most breathtaking views of Manhattan and beyond. The 360-degree panoramic vistas are undeniably a highlight—on a clear day, you can see miles into the boroughs and even across the Hudson to New Jersey. We loved the floor-to-ceiling glass panels and the outdoor sky deck that give an exhilarating feeling of standing on the edge of the skyline.

One traveler, JuanCarlos_M, called it “part of history,” emphasizing how the views and the architecture of the building make it a memorable visit. The informative displays inside the deck help visitors appreciate the engineering marvel behind the skyscraper and the cityscape.

That said, some potential downsides include the admission price—$89.99 per person—which might seem steep for a 1.5-hour visit if you’re on a tight budget. Also, since it’s self-guided, you’ll need to be proactive in making the most of your time and views—there’s no guided commentary.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Cruise (Optional)

The flexibility to add on a cruise past the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a real bonus. The 60-minute boat ride offers a different perspective of New York’s maritime history and skyline, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with some relaxing time on the water.

While this is an optional add-on, many travelers appreciate the chance to see Lady Liberty close-up without paying a separate ticket. The reviews don’t delve deeply into this part, but generally, cruise experiences like this tend to be enjoyable and provide excellent photo opportunities.

How the Itinerary Fits Together

The itinerary is designed with ample time at each attraction—about 1.5 hours for each site—allowing you to explore at your own pace. The skip-the-line tickets are particularly useful at the museum, which often has long queues.

Starting at the 9/11 Museum gives you a chance to reflect on the history and significance of that day, before heading to the Edge Observation Deck to view the city from an unparalleled vantage point. The cruise can be booked separately or as part of the package, offering a scenic and relaxing way to see the Statue of Liberty.

Since the tour is not guided, your experience depends heavily on your own pace and interest. If you’re someone who enjoys reading displays and taking photos, you’ll find this setup perfect. However, if you prefer detailed guided commentary, consider supplementing your visit with an audio guide or a guided tour.

Timing and Logistics

The multiple start times throughout the day offer flexibility, helping avoid peak times at each site. Meeting at 24 State St simplifies logistics, as this central location is near subway stations and other transit options.

Most travelers find the entire experience lasting about 5 to 7 hours, which fits well into a full day’s exploration without feeling rushed. The price point of $89.99 is quite competitive when you consider the combined value of the attractions.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Authentic traveler feedback provides valuable context. Chloe_O’s review highlighted how smoothly everything ran, especially appreciating the informative displays at the 9/11 Museum. She mentioned that the exhibits helped her better understand the significance of the site, which is vital when visiting a place with such emotional weight.

JuanCarlos_M appreciated the experience as being “part of history,” emphasizing the good organization and the educational value, especially for new generations learning about the events.

On the other hand, the less positive review from Daniel_L underscores the importance of booking confirmation and the potential frustrations with third-party booking platforms like Viator. It reminds travelers to verify their reservations and be prepared for some technical issues.

Kevin_M’s feedback points to the need for more professional guidance during the process, which might be a concern for those wanting a guided experience rather than a self-guided ticket.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This ticket package is well-suited for independent travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of long lines. It offers a balanced mix of historical insight, spectacular city views, and a scenic water cruise—all in a single purchase.

While it doesn’t include a guided commentary, the informative displays and self-paced exploration make it accessible to most visitors. The flexible scheduling and option to add a cruise** make it adaptable to different plans and preferences.

The overall value hinges on your interest in these attractions and your comfort with managing your own itinerary. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the bundled price, while those seeking a more guided experience might prefer other tours with guides included.

In sum, if you’re after a convenient, affordable, and comprehensive way to see some of New York City’s most iconic sites, this combo ticket is worth considering—just keep in mind the potential booking hiccups and plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is this tour guided?
No, this is a ticket package; you will explore the sites independently without a guide.

Can I choose any time for my visit?
Yes, several time options are available throughout the day, allowing you to pick a slot that suits your schedule.

Does the package include a guided commentary?
No, the package provides skip-the-line tickets, but there are no guided tours or audio guides included.

What is included in the price?
You get access to the Edge Observation Deck, skip-the-line tickets for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum (if selected), and the option to add a Statue of Liberty cruise.

Are there any additional costs?
The cruise is optional; if you choose it, it’s included in the package. Otherwise, it’s an extra expense.

How long does the entire experience last?
Expect about 5 to 7 hours, depending on how long you spend at each site, and whether you opt for the cruise.

Where do I meet for the experience?
At 24 State St, New York, NY 10004 — a central location near public transportation.

Is the experience suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, including service animals. Just be prepared for some walking and self-guided exploration.

This combo ticket offers a practical way to see some of New York’s biggest icons with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for those who value flexibility, wish to skip lines, and are comfortable exploring independently. For a more guided experience, additional options might be needed, but for many, this package hits the right balance of value and convenience.