Flight 93 National Memorial
A solemn memorial honoring the 40 heroes of Flight 93 who sacrificed their lives on September 11, 2001.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for reflection
Flight 93 National Memorial
Best Time
Fewer crowds for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn memorial honoring the 40 heroes of Flight 93 who sacrificed their lives on September 11, 2001.
"We were humbled by the care and attention to details that went into creating this monument to those who gave their lives to save others."
Allow ample time for reflection
Don't rush your visit. Take time to absorb the solemnity and honor the heroes. :pray:
Check for Presidential visits
Security for VIPs can limit access. Check the NPS website before you go. :informationdeskperson:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wall of Names
Visitor Center Plaza
A poignant white marble wall bearing the names of the 40 passengers and crew who perished.
The Path of Remembrance
Crash Site
A black granite walkway tracing the final moments of Flight 93, leading to the impact site.
Tower of Voices
Entrance Plaza
A 93-foot-tall tower with 40 chimes, each representing a hero, playing a unique melody.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Solemnity
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time for reflection
Don't rush your visit. Take time to absorb the solemnity and honor the heroes. :pray:
Check for Presidential visits
Security for VIPs can limit access. Check the NPS website before you go. :informationdeskperson:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking on paved paths. :athletic_shoe:
Bring tissues
Many visitors find the experience deeply moving. :sob:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time for reflection
Don't rush your visit. Take time to absorb the solemnity and honor the heroes. :pray:
Check for Presidential visits
Security for VIPs can limit access. Check the NPS website before you go. :informationdeskperson:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking on paved paths. :athletic_shoe:
Bring tissues
Many visitors find the experience deeply moving. :sob:
Consider local dining
Nearby Shanksville offers local eateries for a meal after your visit. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the Flight 93 National Memorial as a deeply moving and humbling experience. The thoughtful design and serene atmosphere effectively honor the heroes of Flight 93, leaving many with a profound sense of respect and gratitude. While the solemn nature of the site is acknowledged, the memorial is praised for its beauty and reverence in the face of tragedy.
"An amazing place to visit then pay your respects. I've never left for the dry eye. Take time to take in this amazing place couple things to keep in mind. If and when the president is coming to visit this location, the security is outstanding. Which means that you cannot get down to the lower section and the walk is locked. And normally there in the morning portion. So if you go around lunch time the parking is easier and you can take in everything without having a security issue. But if you are there when he is there, the tribute to the families is absolutely beautiful. Don't look at this as a vacation spot, or place to check off a bucket list. Look at this a place to thank God for the gifts that you have, the family is that you love that still with us. Antique pay respect to those who did lose their loved ones."
thomas rihn
"We were humbled by the care and attention to details that went into creating this monument to those to gave their lives to save others. This solemn graveyard speaks for those who met their fate on the clear September morning in the choice of materials and their arrangement and the surrounding gardens make for a peaceful respite. It was well worth the drive and an unforgettable experience."
Caelum Space
"Very nicely done. They somehow found beauty and reverence in a place of such tragedy. You may spend maybe an hour there, so if you are ever passing through, like we were, I would recommend."
Deborah Gleich-Bope
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The memorial is located in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available, including spaces for RVs and trailers. Many visitors drive from Pittsburgh or Harrisburg, making it a worthwhile stop on a road trip.
Public transportation options directly to the memorial are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling if traveling with others.
From Pittsburgh, take I-76 E to Somerset, then US-219 S to Somerset, and finally PA-30 E to Shanksville. From Harrisburg, take I-76 W to Breezewood, then US-30 W to Shanksville. Always check GPS for real-time traffic updates.
Yes, the memorial is well-signposted from the main roads. Follow signs for the Flight 93 National Memorial.
Absolutely. The memorial is a powerful experience that can be completed in a few hours, making it a suitable day trip from nearby cities like Pittsburgh or Harrisburg.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Flight 93 National Memorial is free. It is a National Park Service site dedicated to remembrance.
The memorial grounds are generally open daily from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current information.
No advance booking is required for general admission. However, if you plan to attend specific commemorative events, especially on September 11th, you may need to check for registration requirements.
Access may be restricted during presidential visits due to security. It's advisable to check the NPS website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
The memorial grounds are open from dawn to dusk. While you can be on the grounds during these hours, the Visitor Center will be closed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the Path of Remembrance, see the Wall of Names, visit the Visitor Center to learn about the events of 9/11, and experience the Tower of Voices. The entire site is designed to tell the story of the heroes. 
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours to fully experience the memorial and Visitor Center. Some may wish to spend longer for quiet reflection.
Yes, the memorial is designed to be accessible. Paved paths and accessible facilities are available.
Photography is permitted for personal use, but please be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies.
Ranger-led programs and tours may be available. Check the Visitor Center for schedules or inquire about ranger availability.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions within the memorial itself. However, picnic tables are available if you wish to bring your own food.
The closest dining options are in Shanksville. For more variety, consider driving to nearby towns like Somerset or Bedford.
The Pie Shoppe and Jean Bonnet Tavern in the Bedford area are recommended for good food and baked goods.
Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Please be mindful of keeping the memorial clean.
Currently, there are no food services available at the Visitor Center. It's best to plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
The Wall of Names, the Tower of Voices, and the Path of Remembrance offer powerful photographic opportunities. The surrounding landscape also provides beautiful vistas.
No, drone operations are prohibited at all National Park Service sites, including the Flight 93 National Memorial, to ensure visitor safety and preserve the solemn atmosphere.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create a beautiful, serene atmosphere for photography. However, the memorial is impactful at any time.
Always be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of other visitors who are reflecting. Focus on capturing the essence of the memorial.
Commercial photography and videography may require a permit. Contact the National Park Service for specific guidelines and application procedures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Encourage quiet reflection and explain the significance of the Wall of Names and the Tower of Voices. The open spaces around the memorial can also provide a sense of peace. It's a valuable opportunity to teach younger generations about courage, sacrifice, and the importance of remembering history.
🙏 Those Seeking Reflection
+1Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon to avoid larger crowds and allow for more personal space. Bring tissues, as many find the experience deeply moving. This is a place to connect with the past, honor the fallen, and appreciate the present.
🚗 Road Trippers
Ample parking is available, including for larger vehicles like RVs. You can bring a picnic to enjoy at the designated tables, making it a convenient and meaningful break during your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Flight 93
+1The 40 individuals on board – 33 passengers and 7 crew members – made the ultimate sacrifice, saving countless lives. Their bravery is honored at the Flight 93 National Memorial, a place designed to tell their story and preserve their legacy of heroism. The memorial serves as a constant reminder of their selfless act and the impact it had on preventing further tragedy.
+1Visiting the memorial allows you to connect with this pivotal moment in history. The Visitor Center provides detailed exhibits, personal accounts, and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of the events and the people involved. It's a deeply moving experience that underscores the courage and resilience of ordinary citizens in extraordinary circumstances.
Designing a Place of Remembrance
At the heart of the memorial is the Wall of Names, a stark white marble structure bearing the names of the 40 passengers and crew. This simple yet powerful monument serves as a focal point for remembrance, allowing visitors to pay their respects directly to those who lost their lives. The surrounding landscape, a reclaimed coal mine, has been transformed into a serene field of honor, symbolizing renewal and peace.
+1A significant addition is the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot-tall structure housing 40 chimes. Each chime represents one of the heroes, and when the wind blows, they create a unique, haunting melody. This auditory element adds another layer to the memorial experience, offering a constant, gentle reminder of the lives lost and the courage displayed.
Visiting with Respect and Understanding
It's important to understand that the memorial aims to educate visitors about the events of 9/11 and the heroism of the passengers and crew. The exhibits and design elements are intended to be sobering and moving, painting the entire picture for those who may have been too young or not yet born during the attacks.
While photography is allowed for personal use, visitors are reminded to be mindful of the atmosphere. Intrusive photography, especially of others who are reflecting, is discouraged. The goal is to create a peaceful respite and a space for quiet contemplation, honoring the memory of the heroes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit