Freedom Tower Visitors Guide: How to Visit One World Trade Center & See It from a Jet Ski
One World Trade Center, also known as One WTC and the Freedom Tower, is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. The tower serves as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience and as a solemn backdrop to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum below.
The Trade Center’s observatory offers the best views of New York City from the tallest tower in the USA. After taking in the skyline, most visitors explore the area on foot, checking out things to do inside Freedom Tower and visiting nearby landmarks. The full experience blends reflection, bold architecture, and sweeping views that stretch far beyond Manhattan.
But there’s another way to take it all in—a dynamic one that trades elevators for adrenaline. A Sea the City Jet Ski Tour gives you front-row views of One World Trade from the Hudson River, where its glass exterior reflects the sky and city around it.
In this Freedom Tower visitors guide, we’ll cover how to visit this beacon of remembrance and renewal and what to expect once you’re there. We’ll also discuss why viewing it from the water might be the highlight of your NYC adventure.
Freedom Tower Fast Facts
Want the basics of One World Trade Center tourist info at a glance? Here are a few fast facts about it:
- Official Name: Officially named One World Trade Center, the centerpiece of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex.
- Nickname: Often called the Freedom Tower, a name previously coined by Governor Pataki during early redevelopment plans.
- Opened: It opened to the public in 2014 after years of planning and construction.
- Height: The tower rises to an astonishing 1,776 feet, making it the tallest building in the United States. Its height also symbolizes the year of American independence, a deliberate nod to the nation’s founding.
- Location: One WTC is located at 285 Fulton Street, right next to the 9/11 Memorial. It’s the centerpiece of the Lower Manhattan skyline and a major destination for visitors.
- Home to: Freedom Tower includes One World Observatory, office space, ONE Dine restaurant, a retail shopping concourse, and more.
How to Visit the One World Observatory
With sweeping skyline views and interactive exhibits, the observatory is one of the most exciting stops in Lower Manhattan. From entry to ticket options, here’s how to visit the Freedom Tower in NYC and get the most out of it:
- Where to Enter: The main entrance is located at West and Vesey Streets, right next to the World Trade Center Transportation Hub.
- What’s Inside: The observatory spans the 100th through 102nd floors and includes 360° views, digital exhibits, and skyline guides.
- SkyPod Elevators: These high-speed elevators reach the top in under 60 seconds, with immersive visuals along the way.
- Best Times to Visit: Mornings tend to be less crowded, while sunset offers epic skyline views.
- Tickets: It’s best to buy tickets online in advance. Choose from general admission, skip-the-line access, or combo packages.
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is a tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Located at the base of One World Trade Center, it includes two outdoor reflecting pools and an underground museum that documents the events, the aftermath, and the lives affected.
This 9/11 memorial guide section explains what to expect, what you’ll see, and how to visit the site respectfully.
What to Expect at the Memorial
Two large reflecting pools sit in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, surrounded by a peaceful, tree-lined plaza. The names of nearly 3,000 victims are inscribed on bronze panels that edge the pools, creating a quiet space for reflection.
Near the South Pool, visitors will also find the Survivor Tree—a Callery pear tree that was discovered in the rubble and later nursed back to health. Additional landmarks in the area include the Oculus transit hub, Liberty Park, and St. Paul’s Chapel, all within walking distance.
Inside the 9/11 Museum
Located beneath the memorial, the museum offers a powerful account of the attacks and their lasting impact. Exhibits feature recovered artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia displays that explore the timeline of events, global response, and long-term consequences. A separate timed-entry ticket is required, and advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Tips for Visiting Respectfully
If you’re planning a visit, these One World Observatory tips can help you make the most of your time there. For starters, give yourself at least 60 to 90 minutes to experience both the museum and the memorial at a comfortable pace. There’s no set rule for how long to stay—it depends on your interest and schedule.
As for hours, the 9/11 Memorial is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., while the 9/11 Museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays).
While there’s no formal dress code, respectful attire is encouraged given the nature of the site. Photography is permitted in most areas, but visitors are asked to remain quiet and considerate throughout their time on the grounds.
See the Freedom Tower from a Jet Ski – A Unique NYC Perspective
Take in a whole new view of the Freedom Tower on a Sea the City Jet Ski Tour—an unforgettable ride through the heart of NYC. You’ll hop on one of our Yamaha EX WaveRunners and launch from Jersey City, just minutes from Manhattan.
As we cruise along the Hudson River, we pass the towering skyline of Lower Manhattan, with One World Trade Center rising above you from the water. Before we ride past the Freedom Tower, we’ll stop for photos with One World Trade in the background. This stop gives you the ideal moment to snap a photo and soak in the view.
With sweeping sights of the Financial District and the tower right in front of you, it’s a favorite for couples, content creators, and adventurers looking for an adrenaline-revving way to explore New York.
Other Landmarks You’ll See on the Jet Ski Tour
While the Freedom Tower is a standout, it’s not the only highlight. Our NYC jet ski tours also bring you face-to-face with skyline views and major Hudson River landmarks, including the following:
- Statue of Liberty: Cruise right up to Lady Liberty for a close look at one of the world’s most famous monuments, standing proudly on Liberty Island since 1886.
- Brooklyn Bridge: Ride under this iconic span connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, and take in the skyline from a dramatic water-level angle.
- Empire State Building: Spot the Empire State Building rising in the distance—it’s one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the city and easily visible from the river.
- Ellis Island: Pass by the historic immigration station that welcomed over 12 million newcomers to America between 1892 and 1954.
- The Battery: Cruise past this historic waterfront park at Manhattan’s southern tip, where historic fortifications and sweeping harbor views create plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Who Should Try a Jet Ski Tour in NYC?
Jet ski tours aren’t just for adrenaline junkies—though thrill seekers will absolutely love the ride. They’re also perfect for first-time visitors searching for unique ways to see NYC, couples planning a romantic weekend, and families with teens who want something more exciting than a typical bus tour.
Locals often book to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or just to enjoy the city from a fresh perspective.
And if you’re a photographer or content creator? The skyline shots you’ll get from the water are hard to beat.
Want to See the Freedom Tower from a Whole New Angle?
Whether you’re climbing to the top of One World Observatory or taking time to reflect at the 9/11 Memorial, visiting the Freedom Tower is an essential NYC experience. But if you want a view that’s bold, exciting, and completely different, try seeing One World Trade Center from the water on a Sea the City Jet Ski Tour. You’ll cruise past the skyline, capture incredible photos, and experience the city in a way you’ll never forget.
Book a jet ski tour today and see the Freedom Tower like never before.
FAQ Section:
Can you go inside the Freedom Tower?
Yes—visitors can head up to One World Observatory, which spans the 100th to 102nd floors.
Is the 9/11 Memorial free to visit?
The outdoor memorial plaza is free and open to the public. Tickets are only required for entry to the museum. There are different packages for admission and tours that can be accessed on their official website here Museum Admission and Tours.
Is it safe to ride a jet ski near One World Trade Center?
It is. Sea the City provides full training, safety gear, and keeps all tours within designated waterways.
Where do Sea the City Jet Ski Tours begin?
Tours depart from Jersey City, just a short ride from Manhattan via ferry or the PATH train.
What’s the best way to see the Freedom Tower from the outside?
A jet ski tour on the Hudson River offers a unique, up-close look at the tower and the entire downtown skyline.