National September 11 Memorial Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum (also known as 9/11 Memorial) is dedicated to remembering the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the Twin Towers, the bombing of 1993, and the nearly 3,000 people killed during both attacks. The museum offers three main exhibitions: Historical, Memorial and Foundation Hall. The memorial is made up of two square underground fountains that flow into the footprints of each twin tower. Located in the Financial District, the 9/11 Memorial is a solemn peek into New York's history.

Best and worst time to go to 9/11 Memorial
Tuesday evenings are among the best times to go because the museum offers free admission after 5 p.m. Tickets are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 4 p.m. It could be a bit crowded, but it's perfect for the budget traveler. The worst time to visit is probably near closing time when the museum is at its fullest, which ranges from 8-9 p.m. Keep in mind the last admittance is two hours prior to closing.

Must see/do at 9/11 Memorial
Two salvaged tridents from the World Trade Center are on display in the museum's glass atrium. They once stood at the base of the towers as part of an original Gothic facade. Also on display is a nearly destroyed NYFD fire truck. The names of every victim are inscribed on bronze panels that line the walls of the memorial's fountain pools.

Admission to 9/11 Memorial
Tickets are available online or at the site. Buying tickets in advance allows you to pick your preferred time, whereas if you buy them at the site you may have to wait up to an hour to gain entrance, depending on how busy they are that day. Prices range from $15-24 depending on age. If you wish to visit the memorial only, and not the museum, then admission is free.

Parking and public transportation to 9/11 Memorial
Riding the subway or walking to 9/11 Memorial is much more convenient than trying to find parking. The Financial District is notorious for narrow roads, construction and hardly any parking spaces. The most direct train is the E to World Trade Center station. You can also take the A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4 or 5 trains to Fulton Street station. You can access the memorial at the corners of Liberty Street and Greenwich Street, Liberty Street and West Street, or West Street and Fulton Street.

Food at 9/11 Memorial
There is no food provided inside the museum or the memorial space. It is also unwise to bring any open food into the museum. Bottles with a lid or cap are acceptable. However, there are plenty of places in the surrounding area where you can grab lunch or dinner. The best way to discover any place in NYC is to simply walk around.

Insider tip for visitors to 9/11 Memorial
There is a very strict security checkpoint upon entering the memorial and museum grounds (very similar to passing security in airports). Large baggage is not allowed, so keep this in mind if travelers are on the go. Personal photography is permitted.

Author's bio: Emilia Navarro is a NYC-based travel writer. She has visited nearly every famous landmark in NYC.