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    Sidewalk views of the Oculus as we approached from several blocks away
    Sarah W.

    We visited here on our way to the 9/11 Memorial and what struck me was the enormous size of this structure. The stark white simplicity of the silhouette felt like a skeleton and then waves of commuters would wash through as trains arrived and then disappear. Definitely unique and nothing in comparison in my experience to the size and feel of this space.

    far
    Shwe N.

    always thought this building was cool from afar and up close. it's a mall inside but i mainly like the architecture from outside lol

    Alex C.

    This 800,000 sq. ft. structure is a transportation hub for PATH trains and houses the Westfield mall. At a cost of over $4 billion to construct, this building is visually appealing on the outside, but jaw droppingly impressive on the inside. You don't really get an appreciation for the sheer size and scope of this place until you first walk through the door and then gape in awe at how large, open, and beautifully designed the Oculus truly is. The main floor houses a variety of high-end retailers and dining options. While the platforms connect various subways and PATH stations. Additionally, various events are held within the Oculus including art exhibits, musical performances, retail events as well as a farmer's market. Fun fact about the Oculus: the structure's exterior steel ribs reaching up and out is symbolic of a hand releasing a dove. While the interior has a huge skylight, allowing light to fill the massive space as a memorial to the attacks on the twin towers. This light symbolizing a brightness that continues to shine through after the darkness of the tragedy.

    Outside of Oculus, made to look like wings
    Francis V.

    Oculus is a very clean space. It's actually a mall the pays tribute to the twin towers. Absolutely amazing to see in person from the inside to the outside. Very well engineered and thoughtful building. I was surprised to see stores inside, I thought it was just a structure to get you from the subway to the WTC.

    Dennis G.

    The Oculus is hands down one of my favorite buildings in NYC. Since this month marks the 10 year anniversary since opening - it was about time I wrote a review. As a longtime Lower Manhattan resident, I've admired it since day one of its opening -- and it never stops impressing me. Officially the World Trade Center Transportation Hub, this massive transit station and shopping destination stands as a powerful symbol of New York City's resilience after 9/11. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the structure was envisioned to resemble a bird being released from a child's hand -- a beautiful representation of hope and rebirth. When you step inside, you truly feel that symbolism. The scale alone is breathtaking. Built with approximately 11,500 tons of structural steel and rising 160 feet tall, the soaring white ribs create one of the most stunning interior spaces in the city. It feels open, airy, and almost cathedral-like. One of the most meaningful features is the preserved slurry wall -- a remnant of the original World Trade Center built in the 1960s to hold back the Hudson River. Seeing it integrated into the space is a powerful reminder of history and endurance. Yes, it cost around $4 billion and took 12 years to complete (opening in March 2016 after significant delays), but in my opinion, it was absolutely worth it. The result is extraordinary. Functionally, it's a major transit hub -- the third-largest in NYC -- serving over 250,000 commuters daily. It seamlessly connects the PATH trains to New Jersey with 12 NYC subway lines, making it incredibly convenient. Beyond transportation, it houses the Westfield World Trade Center mall, with over 350,000 square feet of retail and dining. Whether you're grabbing something quick at the food court (which has tons of variety) or browsing shops like Apple, Eataly, Hugo Boss, Moleskine, Longines, Charles Tyrwhitt, Kiehl's, Swatch, Goldenbar, Pure Liquid, and more -- something for everyone. Best of all, it's free to visit and open 24 hours a day (store hours vary). Even if you're not commuting or shopping, it's worth stopping by just to take in the architecture. The Oculus isn't just a station -- it's an experience. A true NYC landmark.

    Johanna B.

    Shopping Center and an architectually stunning space in the World Trade Center. I don't know how many stores encompass this space but there are many. There's lots going on here: *PAC, Performance Arts Center where A Christmas Carol is currently playing *Walkway to Brookfield Center--high end shops *Easy access to several MTA train lines and the Path In the summer, they'll run movie nights as well as other events. Sam Edelman and Sephora are two of my go to shops here. Love shopping at Oculus especially on a rainy day.

    Chicken rise
    Maria A.

    Such an unexpected find after our visit to the 9/11 Memorial. This underground mall is gorgeous and filled with amazing (mostly luxury) shops--fun to browse even if you're just window shopping. There's also a food hall Gansevoort Liberty Market with several delicious food options. We decided on Peruvian food from Cebichelsea and it was so good. It's super convenient too since it connects directly to the train station. Definitely a must-stop if you live in NYC or are visiting--don't skip it!

    Straight down the center looking east
    Susan C.

    The Oculus. Sounds ominous. Like a thriller movie title...thinking dim light scattered from above, alternating with shadows set in a cavernous open space. Or maybe it evokes your high school SAT verbal nemesis: oculus--what is the definition of this word? a) a supernatural, mysterious or mystical belief, practice or phenomena b) something that is neither harmful or offensive c) a round or eye-like opening or design, such as a circular window or an opening at the apex of a dome d) an optical instrument with a lens for each eye, used for viewing distant objects If the first paragraph didn't give it away then the answer is C.* I jest. It's intriguing to think about how names for standout architectural landmarks are conceived. This thought-provoking structure was built between 2004 and 2016, as part of the World Trade Center reconstruction project. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, it's intended to resemble a child's hands releasing a dove into flight. The position of the building's skylights is so that each year on September 11, the sun shines directly through to illuminate the main interior atrium. Truly poetic. On a functional level, it's a transportation hub linking 12 subway lines and the PATH to NJ, and thousands of commuters walk thru it daily. It's also a retail mall with a couple stories of stores and restaurants managed by Westfield. Interestingly, one of the highlights when you search "Oculus NYC" on Google are its clean public bathrooms. I have not personally experienced these so can't comment here, though glad the $4 billion price tag has benefited the general public (insert wink here) lol. Overall will say the portion of the transportation areas directly under the Oculus building itself are much more modern, newer and cleaner--in line with other major international cities. The shops that are part of the Westfield Mall are open Mon- Fri 9:00am-7:00 pm, Sat 10:00am-8:00pm, Sun 11:00am-7:00 pm. Hafta agree with some other reviews in that aside from the small retail stands on the ground floor, the shops here are mostly very high end and prices are on the high side for almost everything, concertedly geared towards tourists, luxury shoppers and providing more name brand recognition for brands we're familiar with due to their aspirational price tags. *if you're curious what the other words are they are a) occult, b) innocuous, d) binoculars.

    The Oculus (Outside)
    Monique W.

    While exploring Lower Manhattan, I finally had a chance to see the Oculus on a Thursday evening. This is such a architecture masterpiece. The Oculus is 160 feet tall, and the wings extend overhead from the center of the architecture. The Oculus opened in 2016 with the Westfield mall launching shortly afterwards in August. The cost to build the Oculus was approximately $4.00 billion dollars and it took an additional 10 years to build it! Inside the Oculus, there is transportation paths to New Jersey and twelve different NYC subway lines! The interior is stunning! The floors are white marble, with two levels of shops and dining locations! There are events that are hosted here as well like art exhibits and seasonal events! The Oculus connects near the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and One World Trade Center. This is a must visit if you're visiting New York City for the first time. It's so beautiful!

    Shopping
    HoyMay P.

    Oculus is a beautiful and busy shopping area. It is located at the World Trade Center. There are a lot of shopping opportunities here with two floors of businesses and restaurants. A piano has been put on the ground floor. Anyone wishing to play it may do so. Two people played some tunes that were quite nice. Parking can be a challenge. Use public transport, rideshare, or taxi.

    OCULUS SPECIAL LUNCH MENU - MON THRU WED
    Ingrid P.

    My 1st job out of college (1986), was working at Merrill Lynch at 1LP (Liberty Plz); two blocks from The Works Trade Center. Truly enjoying World Trade 2, observation deck where Native NYers would go and get our broadway theatre tickets at 1/2 price, mainly orchestra seating. I did this for ; over 15 yrs. Life does come full circle, in that, out of my current office window on the 50th, 1 LP faces my building. The Oculus fixture does remind me of a woman's girlie part; with a beautiful meaning behind it (see the pic). The Oculus Beer & Garden is reminder, to please come and enjoy simple great food; that we all delight in. It's a great place to convene family, friends, coworkers or biz acquaintances who are looking for a great vibe, beer & the remembrance of The Towers. ALL the murals are breathtaking that surrounds you. You feel it in everything, and it's a sober, yet an appreciative experience that we're here celebrating life, FiDi, a plethora of iconic stores; pubs, and great food. Now the fun...there is a Cocktail Menu, Beer Menu & a Food Men. WOWDelicioso & all with personality. Like the loaded Beef Hot Dog, a loaded Bratwurst, the Oculus BLT, Loaded Nacho & Chicken Tenders. Simply heavenly made.

    Jessica W.

    Beautiful architecture. While enjoying that, you can shop a little, eat a little and sit and relax inside if in need of a warm space to sit in. The subways stop here, which makes it very convenient. It is also where you would walk to get to the skyline view of the now called Freedom Towers. Offices are located in this building right next to the ticketing center, so do not be confused and keep walking to the end or else security will stop you outside. The signage is not very clear and it seems like that is all security is doing, directing all the tourists to the end of the walkway.

    Kayla N.

    Such a beautiful and symbolic piece of architecture. Lovely to take some time to walk around and really look at the structure, and of course stroll around inside the huge shopping complex to get warm in the colder months. If you're into anime: this was a must-see monument (iykyk ) and be sure to glance across the road at Mercer Labs for a neat little Easter egg of sorts (coincidence, I think not!)

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    Page 3 of 11

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    Review Highlights - Oculus

    Although I don't use it as a transportation hub I like to visit to gaze at the beautiful interior and to shop.

    Mentioned in 39 reviews

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    Bowery Savings Bank Building

    Bowery Savings Bank Building

    5.0(3 reviews)
    3.3 miMidtown East, Murray Hill

    Tour historic buildings and designated landmarks of New York. Bowery Savings Bank building is one…read moreof many historic. Any history buff or avid amateur architecture enthusiasts would have a full appreciation and admiration of this stone building as old world architectural craft is no longer in use. This building still stands with the passage of time and nature's elements. The correct location of Bowery Savings Bank Building is in Chinatown, Lower Manhattan- NOT Midtown East, Murray Hill. https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=132531

    You might find a few Bowery Bums in the doorway of the Bowery Savings Bank Building, but it's New…read moreYork, and more to the point it's the USA, and that goes with the territory. This building is very special to me because when I needed to get my citizenship it was here that my awesome lawyer (whose office is in the upper reaches of this magnificent building) helped me through the process and got me over the line - and I will always be grateful for that. He's David Gottfried of Gottfried & Gottfried, by the way. I would recommend him to anyone as the perfect immigration lawyer for my situation and I wish nothing but the best for him. As for the building it's a typical old rustic early 20th century New York stunner, and it seems haunted. They do make you go through a security check to get up inside here but then so does Barbie with her clients.

    Photos
    Bowery Savings Bank Building - Exterior

    Exterior

    Bowery Savings Bank Building - Lil Bowery Wow

    Lil Bowery Wow

    Bowery Savings Bank Building

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    Van Gogh's Ear - Van Gogh's Ear, a public art sculpture by Elmgreen & Dragset

    Van Gogh's Ear

    5.0(3 reviews)
    3.7 miMidtown East, Midtown West

    Don't look for this work of art. It's not there. If you were lucky enough to see it, write a…read morereview. It's pretty cool if you stare and stare. Then all of a sudden you realize what you're looking at! My photos are from April 14, 2016. It was a beautiful Spring Day. I am enjoying reminiciing about today during the Arctic Blast!

    "Van Gogh's Ear", a public art sculpture by Elmgreen & Dragset, is in place at 30 Rockefeller…read morePlaza, right across the street from the entrance to Sak's 5th Ave. The sculpture, by the same duo that brought us the Prada Marfa Store in the middle of the Texas desert, is a tribute to the ready-made style of Marcel Duchamp. The sculpture is a 30 foot tall swimming pool, taken out of its normal context and displayed in its side with a diving board built in at the top. One of my favorite elements are the working lights on the inside left and right of the pool sculpture. Being that it's out of context - a recreational object in the middle of a commercial center - it creates a sense of longing and desire for recreation over industry and gives you an off-kilter feeling (why am I going to work when I could be swimming!). Overall a great piece of colorful public art at placed I a great spot for the perfect season. The piece is on display from April 13th though June 3rd, 2016. Catch it while you can!

    Photos
    Van Gogh's Ear - The sign for Elmgreen & Dragset's piece "Van Gogh's Ear"

    The sign for Elmgreen & Dragset's piece "Van Gogh's Ear"

    Van Gogh's Ear - Van Gogh's Ear beautifully backlit by NYC last night.

    Van Gogh's Ear beautifully backlit by NYC last night.

    Van Gogh's Ear - They removed the street-side barricades.

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    They removed the street-side barricades.

    Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Plaque

    Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Plaque

    5.0(1 review)
    3.4 miMidtown East

    "Don't know much about history Don't know much biology…read moreDon't know much about a science book Don't know much about the French I took" (Sam Cooke) I guess you can call me a history nerd. After all, I did major in history and rarely walk past a plaque or memorial or marker that I don't stop to read and more than likely Yelp. So when we were walking out to the street from Grand Central Station's Park Avenue/East 42nd Street entry and saw a wall plaque with the portrait of a familiar woman, I just had to stop and check it out. The portrait was of Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Those of my generation will always remember the traumatic and terribly sad photographs of her from Dallas on November 22, 1963 with her pink pill box hat and her blood splattered pink dress. Twelve years after JFK's assassination the former First lady was engaged in a high stakes 1975 battle to save one of her hometown's iconic landmarks. At issue was a plan to take the wrecking ball to New York City's Grand Station Terminal and demolish it, just as Penn Station has been demolished and rebuilt in 1964. She became outraged when she learned of the plan and led a coalition of New Yorkers and the the Municipal Art Society to stop it. She was the star of a famous press conference from Grand Central and declared "If we don't care about our past we can't have very much hope for our future, we've all heard that it's too late, or that it has to happen, that it's inevitable. But I don't think that's true. Because I think if there is a great effort, even if it's the eleventh hour, then you can succeed and I know that's what we'll do." She also wrote an eloquent letter to NYC 's Mayor Beame and asked him "...is it not cruel to let our city die by degrees, stripped of all her proud moments, until there is nothing left of all her history and beauty to inspire our children? If they are not inspired by the past of our city, where will they find the strength to fight for her future? Americans care about their past, but for short term gain they ignore it and tear down everything that matters..." The plaque was dedicated on June 24, 2014 to mark renovations to the station's main entrance. The renovations honor her legacy with photographs, a video display, and the plaque. The entry itself was renamed "The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Foyer".

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    Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Plaque

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    Empire State Building - Photo opportunity with King Kong himself

    Empire State Building

    4.0(2.4k reviews)
    2.9 miKoreatown, Midtown West

    Folks, the Empire State Building built in 1931 in just over a year during the Depression, when…read moreAmerica built fast and huge. Iconic, baby. I went up recently, and let me tell you, it's no One World Trade Center. One World? Smooth, modern, straight to the top no nonsense. Empire State? Lines, more lines, security gauntlet, then they dump you halfway into a gift shop full of overpriced junk. Total tourist trap gimmick! They're making a fortune, but come on let me see the view already! But then you hit the 86th floor deck, wind smacks you in the face, city noise roars up from a thousand feet below horns, life, energy. Tremendous! 360-degree views that make you feel like King Kong himself. Nostalgic as hell Art Deco soul, real history you can touch. Not some sterile glass tower; this is old-school New York grit. Sure, if you want quick and slick, skip to One World. But the Empire State? Pure character. Worth every hassle. Go early, grab the express pass if you're smart, soak it in. It's legendary, folks. Huge! Make New York great again one windy deck at a time.

    I hadn't visited the Empire State Building in probably 20 years, but I decided to visit with my…read morehusband last weekend. It's such a different experience now. 20 years ago, I remember just walking into the lobby, buying a ticket, and heading up to the observation deck. But today? You enter in a different spot, and it's a whole experience. There's a "museum" now and you can spend more time here than just taking in the views from the 86th floor. So why go? It was the world's tallest building when it was completed in 1931 and until the North Tower of the World Trade Center was completed in 1970. (Sad aside: It became NYC's tallest building again after 9/11 until was surpassed by One World Trade Center in 2012.) It features gorgeous art deco architecture and design. It's a cultural icon (one of my favorite parts of the museum experience was a room where you can see dozens of film clips which feature the Empire State Building). The new experience includes exhibits that explain the history, design, and construction of the building. What I learned about its construction was particularly interesting! The construction of the building involved more than 3,500 workers, many of who were Irish and Italian immigrants, and led to an unknown number of deaths of workers (official reports say 5, newspapers at the time reported higher numbers). While I felt this museum addition really added to the experience of visiting the Empire State Building, it has also certainly made visiting the building more expensive. So let's get down to the brass tacks. The base ticket (which gets you entry into everything up to the 86th floor) is $44 for adults, $42 for seniors, and $38 for children (plus a $5 booking charge for each transaction). If you want to visit the 102nd floor for that additional observation deck, it's $79 for adults, $77 for seniors, and $73 for children (plus the booking charge). Then there are ways to spend even more money: a Starbucks Reserve Sunrise ticket ($135 per person); an Express Pass (starting at $85/120 per person); a Premium Experience ($175 per person); and All-Access Tour ($500 per person)... I'm generally not into these expensive view experiences that have popped up all over NYC. But the Empire State Building is special. It's an icon and a view. But I still wasn't willing to pay $80 to visit, so we stuck with the base ticket that gets you access only to the 86th floor observatory. The 86th Floor Observatory contains an enclosed viewing gallery and open-air outdoor viewing area. It's the classic observatory you've seen in movies. And it was certainly enough for me - the museum and the 86th floor observatory! Don't miss/rush through the original main lobby as you leave the experience. Or - if you're not willing to pay for the experience to see the view - stop in at the lobby on its own - it's open to the public (follow the signs for the Starbucks Reserve which is entered through this lobby). The lobby is gorgeous - marble, terrazzo, a scale model of the building... But the highlight is that aluminum relief of the skyscraper as it was originally built (without the antenna). It's incredible. It's an icon for a reason, and it was fun to visit and to see it again after so many years. They've certainly made it more of an experience than it used to be (although now, you can't just pop by for the view on a pretty day, since it's prohibitively expensive for a quick visit), but I had a really good time.

    Photos
    Empire State Building - King Kong poster

    King Kong poster

    Empire State Building - Ahhhh godzilla got me

    Ahhhh godzilla got me

    Empire State Building - The souvenir glass that you can only get in the restaurant on the first floor.

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    The souvenir glass that you can only get in the restaurant on the first floor.

    Oculus - landmarks - Updated June 2026

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