Oculus

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.