The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) has one of the most wide-ranging collections of art and art-related artifacts in the world. From contemporary, cutting-edge artists and arts movements to 2,000-year-old artifacts, the MET’s extraordinary permanent collections and temporary exhibitions make this museum one of New York City's most popular attractions.
The Met collection is so vast, there’s simply no way to experience all it has to offer in one visit. The best way to discover its treasures is to plan in advance. Use The Met’s online database to peruse some of the highlights before, and after, your visit. The Met’s website also has tips on how to make the most of your visit. At the museum, be sure to pick up a map. Better still, join a free guided tour or rent an audio guide and explore at your own pace.
Get close to the works of Jackson Pollock and Van Gogh, gaze upon The Adoration of the Magi by 14th-century Florence artist, Giotto, and admire the Ming Dynasty hardwood furniture in Astor Court. Examine the realistic detail in Caravaggio’s The Musicians and marvel at the majesty of the Sphinx of Hatshepsut, which weighs more than 7 tons.
Take a break in the restaurants or cafés and peruse a list of current events. Join a talk, workshop or short course. Learn about the featured artists or take a workshop on costume design, animation or painting technique. Enjoy a performance or music concert in the concert hall or see a rare film. Events are catered to families, teens and younger children.
The museum is open daily with extended opening hours on Friday and Saturday. It is closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and the first Monday in May. Children under 12 years of age enter free and the entrance fee includes same-week admission to The Cloisters museum in Fort Tryon Park, where you can discover the art and architecture of medieval Europe.
The Met is located on Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street on the east side of Central Park. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on admissions, events and exhibitions.
