Oculus World Trade Center

An absolutely stunning architectural space. The design is breathtaking both inside and out — modern, elegant, and full of light. Despite being a busy transit and shopping hub, it feels open and inspiring rather than overwhelming. A perfect example of how architecture can transform a functional place into something memorable. Definitely worth visiting, even if you’re just passing through.

The Oculus at the World Trade Center is one of the most stunning architectural landmarks in New York City. Designed by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava, it looks like a giant white bird about to take flight — symbolizing hope and rebirth after 9/11. The design is breathtaking both inside and out, with bright white ribs and skylights that allow natural light to flood the space. Every angle feels futuristic, elegant, and peaceful. The best part is that entry is completely free, and you can visit any time of the day. It’s both a transportation hub and a shopping center, connecting multiple subway lines and the PATH trains to New Jersey. Inside, you’ll find Westfield World Trade Center Mall, featuring popular brands like Apple, Sephora, and Eataly, as well as several cafés and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the view. The structure feels spacious and spotless — it’s like walking inside a modern art museum. I recommend visiting around midday when the sunlight hits the white walls beautifully, or in the evening when it’s lit up softly and looks even more magical. You can also take some amazing photos looking up at the curved ceiling or from the balcony levels. Right outside, you can walk to the 9/11 Memorial Pools and One World Observatory, both just a few steps away. It’s a great spot to take a break, shop, or simply admire the architecture. Even if you’re not shopping or commuting, it’s worth visiting just to experience its design and atmosphere. Overall, The Oculus is a masterpiece of modern architecture and one of the most photogenic places in New York. Whether you come for shopping, travel, or sightseeing — it’s absolutely worth your time.

Could be the coolest structure I’ve ever been through. Definitely worth making your way through here from an architectural standpoint, but the shops were plentiful and varied with lots of high-end options. It’s also a transportation hub with subway stops right in the building, perfect if making your way to the WTC Memorial or observation deck.

An architectural wonder and a must-see location in New York City is the Oculus World Trade Center. Its magnificent white edifice, which was designed by Santiago Calatrava, represents a bird in flight and provides a motivating, light-filled, and lively atmosphere. A sizable, contemporary shopping center with upscale stores, food options, and convenient access to the PATH and metro lines is located inside. It serves as a place for shopping, photography, and introspection in addition to being a transit hub. It is exceptionally clean and well-designed, and it blends in well with the 9/11 Memorial adjacent. An exquisite fusion of urban convenience, architecture, and art.

Large impressive transportation hub and shopping mall directly across the street from the 9 11 Memorial and the Perelman Performing Arts Center. Multi level structure with various shopping options along with a food area offering dinner items and take-away food. Nice way to spend time away from the cold weather outside or the heat of the summer. The food options are plenty offering coffee with pastries or pasta with many various sauces. Fresh meats and fish along with cheeses and pastries with a small bar in the middle for a quick drink and a break from shopping Impressive structure with views of the entire main section of the mall from the top level of the stairs.

I cried when I entered this place. It literally felt heavy the energy of the deceased. But the pictures of this place doesn't do any justice. It's a must see in person. Truly extraordinarily beautiful. R.I.P to all the perished that fatal day. But I hate to say it our government did it and a 2nd one is coming and it will be the tunnels. Stay safe beautiful people of N.Y and God bless you all.

Shades of Banksy. It's an off the path of the Occulus kitty corner to the WTC World Trade Center, same side of the closed off street as the Occulus but ground level, street level, facing the Perelman Performing Arts Center outdoor gallery, have that at your back as you face the concrete barriers that have become surfaces for painted opinion graffiti. Got to love them- oh, all photos are copyright me only to be used with written permission.... from me. Enjoy the New York art which, true to New York artists who copy others styles to get a lead up.

What an architectural masterpiece. The roof from both outside and inside is constructed in a very tasteful way. Inside the terminal you will have all rail-lines, lots of retails space - food, shopping and serves as a good connecting spot between one world observatory, trade center and fulton center