The Oculus: A Symbolism and Secrets Self-Guided Indoor Audio Tour

45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Explore the Oculus, one of New York's most stunning modern landmarks designed by Santiago Calatrava. This 45-minute indoor tour takes you through the soaring white structure that symbolizes rebirth after 9/11, revealing the stories and symbolism behind Lower Manhattan's most breathtaking spaces.

**Tour Highlights:**
• Discover the meaning behind Calatrava's bird-in-flight design
• Explore the Oculus as both transit hub and "memorial to life"
• Learn about the Twin Towers' engineering legacy and controversies
• Step into the majestic Winter Garden Atrium with Hudson River views
• Experience Eataly and Le District's culinary offerings
• View the 9/11 Memorial and reflect on tragedy and rebirth

Beginning at Church Street, you'll descend through multiple levels while uncovering how this visionary design connects to New York's grand architectural traditions.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour begins at the Oculus entrance on Church Street between Fulton and Dey Streets. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (approximately)
  • One World Trade Center (Pass by)

    Walk along this indoor tour of the stunning white winged transportation hub and shopping center in New York City, designed by Santiago Calatrava, where you can admire the soaring architectural marvel and explore its inner secrets. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Stroll through this elegant glass-atrium pavilion featuring palm trees and marble floors, where you can enjoy the waterfront views and upscale shopping along the Hudson River. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pass by this French-inspired food hall and marketplace, where you can discover artisan bakeries, cafés, and dining options showcasing authentic French culinary traditions along the waterfront. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • Eataly (Pass by)

    Walk along this vibrant Italian marketplace spanning multiple floors, where you can explore gourmet food counters, restaurants, and specialty shops celebrating Italian cuisine and culture. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Architecture Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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