9/11 Memorial and Museum: Pt.1 The Memorial

During my short time here in New York, I've already taken the time to visit the 9/11 Memorial three times, and the museum twice. Needless to say, it's an incredible, must-have experience.

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Before you ever make it to the memorial and museum site, you'll be able to see One World Trade Center (pictured above on the left side of the frame). The new skyscraper built on the spot of the former 6 World Trade Center and given the same name as the fallen North Tower. One World Trade Center is, according to Forbes.com, not only the tallest building in New York City, it is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Rising high above the rest of the New York skyline, One World Trade Center is an impressive symbol of the ability of the American spirit to rise above tragedy and trials.

But while the new tower may soar, the twin memorials - one each on the sites of the twin towers - sink mournfully into the ground. Water flows over the edges of concentric squares, entering a seemingly bottomless pit, symbolic of the unending sorrow and impact that 9/11 left on this nation. In the smooth, but flowing water, the skyline of New York City is reflected back, reminding visitors that while life in the city may constantly move on, the events that happened in this place 15 years ago will always be a part of this city's history.

But aside from the images of the city in the water, the names of the fallen are also ever present in the memorial. Between the two fountains, every name - 2,996 names - is listed. It is common to find flowers and American flags sticking out of the carvings of names, mementos left by mourners who still come to visit.

Surrounding the memorials are rows of trees, approximately 400 swamp white oaks chosen for their resilience and adaptability. But among the many oak trees, is one exception. Known as the Survivor Tree, a lone callery pear tree sits in Memorial Plaza, the only tree surrounded by a fence. In the plaza at the time of the 9/11 attacks, it managed to survive against all odds, standing as a symbol of rebirth.

VISITOR TIPS:

The plaza can get particularly crowded and busy with visitors. If you are looking for a more peaceful, reflective experience, avoid visiting on the weekends and instead visit on weekdays during normal working hours. Additionally, while it is very peaceful and quiet at night, unlike memorials and monuments in D.C., this particular memorial is not lit. You won't be able to see much once it gets dark, so save your visit for daylight hours.