USA. 2014. New York, NY. Two men sit on a bench with the reflection of the new World Trade Center in the background. On May 21, 2014, the 9/11 Museum opened to the public. 7000 free tickets were reserved well in advance, and the plaza was modestly crowded with visitors. Although the exhibition space has been well reviewed, the museum has been the subject of some controversy. The large gift shop has been criticized as overly commercial and a VIP party the night before the opening was criticized for serving alcohol and having a festive atmosphere.