The Freedom Tower, officially known as One World Trade Center, is one of the most iconic buildings in New York City. Standing at 1,776 feet tall, it is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and offers stunning 360-degree views of New York City and beyond from its observatory on the 102nd floor. Many visitors to New York make going to the top of the Freedom Tower a top priority on their sightseeing itinerary. But how much do tickets to visit the Freedom Tower Observatory cost?
Quick Answers
The standard ticket price for access to the Freedom Tower Observatory is $38 for adults, $36 for seniors, and $32 for children. There are options to purchase flexible or express tickets for slightly higher prices. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or on-site. Combo tickets that include access to the neighboring 9/11 Memorial Museum are also available.
Ticket Types and Prices
The Freedom Tower offers several different types of tickets at varying prices:
- Standard Tickets – $38 adults, $36 seniors, $32 children
- Flex Tickets – Allow entry within a 30-day window, prices vary by season
- Express Tickets – Allow priority building access, $53 per person
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum Combo – Includes access to both attractions, $58 adults, $54 seniors, $39 children
Children are defined as ages 6-12, with kids 5 and under attending for free. Active military members also receive complimentary admission upon presentation of valid ID.
The standard ticket offers access to the observatory during a selected date and time slot. Flex tickets allow you to visit anytime within a 30-day window from date of purchase. This offers more flexibility if you’re unsure of your exact schedule. Express tickets include expedited building access via a separate VIP entrance.
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum combo ticket grants access to both the Freedom Tower Observatory and the neighboring 9/11 Memorial Museum. Purchasing a combo can offer savings compared to individual tickets.
Peak and Off-Peak Pricing
Ticket prices are also subject to peak and off-peak pricing seasons:
- Peak Season – March 1 to May 31, July 1 to August 31, and December 20 to January 1
- Off-Peak Season – All other dates
During peak visitor seasons, expect to pay higher prices. For example, an adult standard ticket costs $43 versus $38 during off-peak times. The difference in child ticket prices is less significant, only $1-2 in most cases.
Visiting during the off-season, especially January through April, will mean fewer crowds and lower prices. Just be aware the observation decks are outdoors, so weather is a factor in colder months.
Tickets for Tour Groups and Student Groups
Special discounted group rates are available for tour groups and student groups booking 15 tickets or more:
- Tour Groups – $33 per adult ticket
- Student Groups – $31 per student ticket
To qualify for student group rates, the group must have a minimum of 15 students aged 13 and up. One adult chaperone can attend for free per 8 student tickets purchased. Additional chaperone tickets are $25 each.
Tour and student groups must book tickets together in advance through the Freedom Tower Observatory Group Sales Department. Authorized motorcoach parking is also available for tour groups.
Buying Tickets
There are several options for purchasing Freedom Tower Observatory tickets:
- Online – Purchase tickets in advance on the official website.
- On-site – Buy tickets at the box office in the lobby (subject to availability).
- Authorized resellers – Third party vendors sell Observatory tickets, often in packaged deals.
- Hotel concierge – Some hotels sell packaged Observatory tickets.
Buying online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak visitor seasons. The Freedom Tower often sells out tickets weeks or months ahead of time. Walk-up tickets may not be available or could require extended wait times.
Be cautious when purchasing from third party resellers, as some sites are unauthorized ticket vendors. For guaranteed legitimate tickets, buy directly from the Freedom Tower or authorized partners only.
Other Ways to Save
Aside from visiting during off-peak times, there are a few other ways you may be able to save on Freedom Tower tickets:
- CityPASS – Includes Observatory access along with 4 other major NYC attractions. Can offer savings compared to individual tickets.
- Bundled experiences – Some deals package Observatory tickets with dining or other attractions.
- Coupons and vouchers – Look for Freedom Tower coupons and vouchers, which are occasionally offered by certain partners.
Keep in mind that most discounts and coupons cannot be combined or applied during peak visiting seasons. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum also offers free evening passes every Tuesday from 5pm to close, if you only wish to visit the museum.
Ticketing Policies
When buying Freedom Tower Observatory tickets, be aware of the venue’s ticketing policies:
- All tickets are date and time specific.
- Tickets can be rescheduled or refunded with at least 24 hours notice.
- Children under 6 are free but must be accompanied by an adult.
- ID and valid tickets are required to enter.
- Bags larger than 4.5” x 6.5” are not permitted.
Keep your tickets handy, as you will need to go through security screening to access the observatory. Arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled time slot. Be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date policies before your visit.
What the Ticket Includes
Your Freedom Tower Observatory ticket grants you access to the following:
- Indoor and outdoor observatory decks on the 102nd floor
- Informative exhibits and displays
- Chance to walk on the Sky Portal glass floor
- Best views of New York City’s iconic skyline
- Audio guide available in multiple languages
- Photo ops with professional photographers
Tickets do not provide entry to the 9/11 Memorial Museum, which requires separate admission if you wish to visit both in the same day. Combo tickets allow access to both the observatory and museum.
Plan to spend 60-90 minutes visiting the observatory. One World Trade Center also houses an array of eateries if you get hungry. You can also upgrade to include extras like champagne, keepsake photos and VIP experiences for an additional fee.
Conclusion
Visiting the Freedom Tower Observatory is an incredible way to take in panoramic views of New York City from over 1,000 feet high. Standard ticket prices range from $32-$38, with combo and express tickets also available. Purchase tickets online in advance – especially during busy seasons – to ensure availability. Arrive early with your printed or mobile tickets in hand, and get ready for unforgettable 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline from atop One World Trade Center.