Museums may contain things of the past, but the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York thrives in the modern day! Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or someone who just genuinely enjoys various aesthetics, a visit to this iconic New York institution is a can’t-miss.
If you’re planning on making the trip or stopping by a second or third time, here’s all you need to know to make the most out of the Met!
First things first, what is this place all about?
The Met―as we fondly call it, is the largest museum in North America and the fifth-largest museum in the world, containing two million pieces of art spanning over 5,000+ years. From prehistoric times to contemporary art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York boasts unparalleled collections as extensive as the bottom of the ocean! Since it opened in 1880, it has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City.
What can I find inside the museum?
Inside, you’ll find plenty of forms of art throughout human history. The Met’s collection includes everything, from the Old Masters’ paintings (any Van Gogh, Monet, and Degas fans here?), to Egyptian temples, ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, and Chinese textiles, and to clothing designed by legendary fashion designers. That’s a whole load of art!
A world full of art and history
And if you’re here to admire the view, the museum isn’t short of instagrammable places to snap your shot! Its Gothic Revival style building, iconic tiered steps, and infinite halls of the world’s most prized treasures are sights to be seen.
So, how much time should I allot to explore the Met?
Art hop the biggest museum in the country. Image Credit: Alex Simpson via Unsplash
By this time, you’re probably wondering how much time you should allot for a visit to the Met, and the answer is simple. A short four hours is enough for you to take in all of its beauty!
Keep in mind that the museum is HUGE, with over 2.2 million square feet of space and 2 million pieces to see–plus, add in the special exhibits held by the institution every season. It’ll take you approximately one week to see everything.
Don’t have the time? We recommend planning and noting down which exhibits or pieces you’re most excited to see—and if you still aren’t sure, we’ve got you covered below.
What are permanent exhibits that can’t be missed?
These are the Met’s most famous collections and artworks you need to add to your game plan. You’re welcome!
European Paintings
Spot the masterpieces of Rembrandt, Vermeer, Botticelli, Matisse, and many other celebrated European painters of the 13th to the 21st century. Some of the most famous artists, such as Monet and Van Gogh, even have their own galleries dedicated to displaying their best pieces.
Edgar Degas’s “Little Dancer of Fourteen Years” takes the center stage of the exhibit. Image Credit: Sole D'Alessandro via Unsplash
See Van Gogh’s “Self Portrait with a Straw Hat,” Duccio di Buoninsegna’s “Madonna and Child,” Edgar Degas’ “The Dance Class,” and more works of the Masters at the European wing.
This colossal head of a young man dates back to 2 BCE!
Nearby, you can also check out the Renaissance sculptures and ancient Greek sculptures at the Greek and Roman Wing.
French Period Rooms
Feel like royalty at one of the museum’s French Period Rooms! Image Credit: Jerry Zheng via Unsplash
The museum’s French Period Rooms will transport you back to the time of the French Monarchy, with furniture salvaged from Parisian hotels and salons. Every detail is painstakingly recreated down to a T, including walls, chandeliers, and even Marie Antoinette’s dog’s bed!
Temple of Dendur
Mummies, anyone? Image Credit: Alex Simpson via Unsplash
Built more than 2,000 years ago on the banks of the Nile River, the Temple of Dendur now finds its home at the Met. It’s also the only complete Egyptian temple in the Western Hemisphere!
Asian Art Collection
Wander through the diverse culture of Asia on the gallery’s second floor, and you’ll find the most interesting bits of the continent’s colorful history spanning thousands of years ahead of the West.
How about rotating exhibits?
The museum’s permanent galleries are enough to make your head spin, but what truly makes the Met special and among the finest institutions in the world is its special exhibits. Explore different themes in art and modern society.
Remember the iconic 2018 Met Gala? Image Credit: Felipe Simo via Unsplash
Previous exhibits have explored the impact of religion on haute couture in the “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and Catholic Imagination (2018)”, showcasing garments inspired by grand cathedrals.
For more info on the upcoming exhibits, check the museum website.
Where is it exactly?
Home of the Met. Image Credit: Jose Oh via Unsplash
If you’ve only got time to visit one museum in New York, then the Met has got to be it! Besides its extensive collection, the museum is conveniently located within Central Park, so you don’t have to travel a long way to get there.
On Fifth Avenue’s 82nd Street, you’ll find the awe-inspiring structure of the Met building, easily accessible via public transport and car.
By public transport
- If you’re coming from the East Side of Manhattan, take the 4, 5, or 6 trains to 86th Street and walk three blocks west of Fifth Avenue until you reach the bus stop. From there, ride the M1, M2, M3, or M4 bus along Fifth Avenue to 82nd Street.
- On the other hand, there’s less walking and more riding when coming from West Side Manhattan. Take the C train to 81st Street, then ride the M79 bus across Central Park to Fifth Avenue.
By car
- From Lake Shore Drive, take the exit at 18th Street and look for the Museum Campus Drive near Soldier Field. The signs will indicate where visitor parking is.
Where do I get tickets for the Metropolitan Museum of Art New York?
Tickets are available online and on-site. You can reserve a ticket, select the day of your visit, and choose your entry time. Tickets for this iconic museum provide same-day entry to the Met at Fifth Avenue and the Met Cloisters, where the museum’s collections of Medieval Art are displayed.
Admissions
- Adults: $25
- Seniors: $17
- Students: $12
- Children under 12: Free of charge
Pro Tip: Book your tickets to the Met with Klook and enjoy a discounted price on your 1 Day Admission Pass!
What are the opening hours?
About 6 million guests visit the Met per year. Image Credit: Abbie Bernet via Unsplash
You can visit the illustrious Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York all year round, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, January 1, and the first Monday of May.
The museum is open six days a week, from Sunday to Tuesday and Thursday to Saturday:
- Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Monday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Wednesday: (Closed)
- Thursday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Friday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Keep in mind that museum hours may change at any time, so keep posted via the Met’s official website.
What are COVID measures in the museum?
FYI, wear a mask! Image Credit: Alex Simpson via Unsplash
As a precautionary measure against COVID-19, the MET adheres to the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the New York City Mandate for increased safety and health protocols.
Starting December 27, visitors age 12 and older must show a valid ID and proof of vaccination with any NYC-accepted vaccine.
Face masks are required at all times, even if you’re vaccinated.
What else is good to know?
When visiting the Met, make sure that you’re all set. Don’t forget to bring your camera and sketchpad for the trip!
And if you ever feel hungry, take your fill at the museum’s picturesque cafes. Grab some pizza at The Eatery located on the ground floor or enjoy coffee and cocktails at The Balcony Lounge on Floor 2, just in time for dinner when the small orchestra begins to play classical music on weekends.
