Oculus

The basics

The Oculus is one of the most distinctive architectural additions to Downtown Manhattan in recent memory. Larger than Grand Central Station, the multifunctional structure operates foremost as a transit hub, linking 12 New York subway lines and PATH trains to New Jersey. But it’s also a tourist destination for its dining and shopping options, as well as its visual splendor and emotional gravity. Cathedral-like in scope and significance, the Oculus is flanked by One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial. It’s aligned on a precise angle so a bright beam of sunlight filters into the concourse on September 11th every year.

The Oculus is easy to explore as part of a New York sightseeing outing. It can also be viewed on one of a number of Ground Zero and 9/11-themed tours, as well as walking tours of Lower Manhattan.

Things to know before you go

• Every level of the Oculus is accessible to wheelchair users and has elevator access.

• The Oculus’ central concourse also doubles as an event space that hosts performances, concerts, holiday pop-ups, and more.

• There are more than 15 dining options in the Oculus, including a number of lunch spots, cafés, and juice bars.

• The space is also home to more than 50 stores, including everything from an Apple Store to designer clothing shops.

How to get there

The Oculus is located at 50 Church Street, part of the World Trade Center campus in Lower Manhattan. Its transit hub brings together subway lines including the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, E, J, R, W, and Z; PATH trains also link the station to Newark and Hoboken in New Jersey. You can also reach the site on the M9 or M55 bus.

When to get there

The Oculus is open throughout the day, though street-level access is limited for several hours overnight. The best time to visit is during typical daytime hours; its shops and restaurants are generally open from mid-morning until early evening (with shorter hours on Sundays). The September 11th anniversary brings many visitors to the landmark.

The World Trade Center campus

Many travelers to NYC explore the Oculus during a trip to the World Trade Center campus, and it’s worth lingering to take in its other sights. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum tells the stories of those who lost their lives in the tragedy, and the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine replaces a church that was destroyed in the attacks. You can also go to the One World Observatory for some of the best views overlooking the city, and visit the Liberty Garden to relax amid the greenery.

Ways to explore

The Oculus is included on many tour itineraries of Lower Manhattan and the Financial District, especially ones focusing on the 9/11 attacks. Tours typically spend a few minutes looking inside the main concourse and taking photographs. If you visit independently, set aside anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Take time to enjoy views from both the ground floor and upper level, and spend time browsing retail chains like the Apple Store and Banana Republic.

Accessibility

Every level of the Oculus is wheelchair-accessible and can be reached by elevator.

Age limits

None

What to pack

You can bring a small tribute item to leave behind if you plan on visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

What to wear

There’s no dress code in the Oculus, but you’ll be most comfortable in walking shoes, as you’ll be getting a lot of steps in.

Not allowed

Pets (except service animals), drones, smoking or vaping

Amenities

Restaurants and cafés, including Jamba Juice, Pret à Manger, Eataly, Wasabi Sushi

Address

The Oculus is in the Financial District at Ground Zero. As it’s a major transit hub, there are numerous options available.

Driving

Driving in Lower Manhattan isn’t recommended. You can get dropped off nearby by taxi or rideshare. If you do drive, you’ll find several pay-to-park garages nearby.

Public transportation

Many subway lines stop near the Oculus, including the 1 at WTC Cortlandt, the A, C, 2, 3, 4, 5, and J, Z at Fulton St, the E at World Trade Center and R, W at Cortlandt. You can also get buses M55 or M9; get off at Liberty Street or Vesey Street. There’s also the PATH train from New Jersey at World Trade Center Station and multiple ferry options.

Best times to visit

Avoid coming during rush hours (8am–10am, 5pm–7pm), as the concourse swarms with commuters.

Best days to visit

Weekends are generally quieter, unlike at most New York City attractions.

Best months to visit

Shoulder seasons are most pleasant in New York City, but you’ll find pop-up activities in the Oculus year-round, including art shows, concerts, and “ice skating” (with rollerskates) in winter.

Special events

Each year on September 11, at exactly 10:28am (the time the North Tower collapsed), the “Way of Light” takes place. That’s when the main hall illuminates with natural light through its skylights, a tribute designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.