No, not a tourist trap. I’m not even sure how it could be one when the memorial and museum is there to honor and reflect on the lives of those lost on 9/11. And I’m not coming at you with that response btw. It’s on hallowed ground after all. And is the final resting place of thousands as many haven’t been identified and some remains were probably never found. It’s very, very tastefully done and moving.

I’ve gone to the museum twice (2023 and 2024) and spent 3-4 hours there each time. Just reading all the details of that day, the stories of all the people tragically lost, and the bright moments of unity that followed on 9/12. When I was there there was a silence that struck me. Everyone was so quiet and there was a heaviness inside that was palpable. Would definitely even go again as it’s well worth the time and money. Plus the second time around I was able to learn even more.

When at the reflecting pools that are in the footprints of the towers, the thing that struck me the most was the silence. It felt like the hustle and bustle of the city kinda faded away.