Criticisms of the 9/11 Museum

When the museum opened in May 2014, four points drew public objection: the placement of the unidentified remains inside the museum building rather than above ground; a gift shop selling souvenirs on the site; the admission charge for a memorial museum; and the absence of an Arabic-language brochure. Some shop items were withdrawn within days, and the brochure question was resolved by agreement in 2017.

Opened21 May 2014

Points raisedFour

Arabic brochureResolved 2017

The four points

Some victims’ families objected to the repository of unidentified remains being placed at bedrock inside the museum building; the repository page states what it is. The gift shop drew protest, and some items were withdrawn within days. An admission charge for a memorial museum was itself criticised. Brochures initially lacked an Arabic version, which was resolved by agreement in 2017.

The museum’s response on cost

The museum points to the free Monday evenings, the free first Sundays for New York area residents, the year-round free entry for families and responders, and the memorial itself, which is free every day. The free admission page lists them; the ownership page explains who sets the charge.

Frequently asked questions

Why was the 9/11 Museum criticised?

Over the placement of the remains, the gift shop, the admission charge and, at first, the lack of an Arabic brochure.

Is there still a gift shop?

A museum store keeps museum hours in the pavilion.

Is the memorial free despite the museum charge?

Yes. The plaza is free daily 8 am to 8 pm as published.