How to reserve passes to the 9/11 Memorial

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum opens Sept. 12, but visitors have to reserve a pass to visit.

By Erik Torkells

The memorial part of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum is opening to the public on Sept.12, and it looks like visiting it will be a powerful experience — it includes two mammoth pools with waterfalls (on the footprints of where the Twin Towers were), a plaza of trees and the names of the nearly 3,000 victims. But only 1,500 people will be allowed at a time, so if you want to pay your respects firsthand, you’ll have to reserve a pass for a specific date and time. Passes were made available starting July 11.

To reserve up to nine passes (more than that and you’re supposed to call 212-266-5200 or email groups@911memorial.org), go to http://www.911memorial.org/visitor-passes. You’ll need to enter the names and addresses of everyone you’re reserving for. The passes — which are free — will be either emailed to you as a PDF or you can pick them up on site.

As it gets closer to your visit, remember three things: You’ll probably need to show ID that matches the name you reserved under; any bags must be smaller than 8″ x 17″ x 19″ (no bag check); and there are no restrooms at the memorial.

New York hotels near the Memorial

Formerly the editor of Budget Travel magazine, Erik Torkells has written for many other publications, including Travel + Leisure, the New York Times and T Magazine. He has appeared on MSNBC and “Good Morning America” on Orbitz’s behalf.

Tagged: New York