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New York Tickets The Met Plan Your Visit
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to The Met

Exploring The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a monumental journey through five thousand years of global culture and creative achievement. Familiarizing yourself with the museum’s vast layout and visitor policies will help you curate a rewarding experience across its world-renowned galleries.

The Met – Essential Visitor Info

To make the most of your trip to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, it is essential to note that the museum operates across two distinct locations with slightly different schedules.

Both sites are closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25, January 1, and the first Monday in May.

The Met Fifth Avenue

Located along Museum Mile, the main building houses the majority of the museum's expansive permanent collection and major rotating exhibitions.

Sunday - Tuesday: 10 AM - 5 PM

Wednesday: Closed

Thursday: 10 AM - 4:30 PM

Friday - Saturday: 10 AM - 9 PM

The Met Cloisters

Situated in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, this location is dedicated to the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe.

Thursday - Tuesday: 10 AM - 4:30 PM

Wednesday: Closed

Recommended Duration

Given the museum's immense scale - covering over two million square feet - it is impossible to see everything in a single day.

Most visitors find that three to five hours allows for a rewarding experience that covers a few specific departments (such as the Egyptian Wing or European Paintings) without causing significant "museum fatigue."

Good to Know Before Visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Admission tickets are valid for entry to both The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters on the same day.

The museum is closed to the public every Wednesday, as well as on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Large bags, luggage, and musical instruments are not permitted inside the museum and cannot be checked at the coat rooms.

While photography for personal use is generally allowed, the use of flash, tripods, and selfie sticks is strictly prohibited in all galleries.

The Met is no longer "pay-as-you-wish" for out-of-state visitors; only New York State residents and students from NY, NJ, and CT can access suggested pricing with valid ID.

Food and drinks are not allowed in the galleries, though you may carry a plastic water bottle inside your bag.

Sketching is permitted with pencils only; the use of pens, markers, or paints is restricted to maintain the safety of the artwork.

Strollers are allowed in most areas of the museum, but they may be restricted in certain crowded special exhibitions or during peak hours.

Manual wheelchairs are available for free at the coat check on a first-come, first-served basis for visitors with mobility needs.

The museum is exceptionally large, so it is highly recommended to download the digital map or use the museum’s interactive website to plan your route in advance.

The Met - Additional Info

Dining at the Met ranges from casual cafes to full-service seated experiences.

The The Met Dining Room at the Fifth Avenue location offers a sophisticated menu with views overlooking Central Park, making it a popular choice for a formal lunch or weekend brunch.

For a quicker, family-friendly option, the The Eatery on the ground floor provides a variety of seasonal soups, salads, and sandwiches in a spacious, self-service environment.

During the warmer months, the Cantor Rooftop Garden Bar serves cocktails and light snacks with an unmatched view of the Manhattan skyline.

At The Met Cloisters, the Trie Café offers an outdoor dining experience within the tranquil setting of the medieval-style gardens (seasonal). Regardless of where you choose to eat, the culinary offerings emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients designed to complement a day of cultural exploration.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art - Nearby Attractions

Central Park: The museum is located within the park, providing immediate access to The Great Lawn, The Obelisk (Cleopatra's Needle), and The Ramble.

The Neue Galerie: Situated just a few blocks north on Museum Mile, this museum is dedicated to early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design.

The Guggenheim Museum: Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece is located nearby and is famous for its unique spiral ramp and modern art collection.

The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum: Housed in the former Andrew Carnegie Mansion, this museum is dedicated to the history of contemporary and historic design.

The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir: Located directly behind the museum, this is the largest body of water in Central Park and features a popular 1.5-mile running track.

Belvedere Castle: A short walk through the park leads to this 19th-century stone castle, which offers stunning panoramic views of the park and the city.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Skip The Line Ticket + Guided Tour

Highlights

Avoid waiting in the entrance queue for faster access.

Enjoy a guided walking tour led by an expert in English.

Explore a curated selection of iconic artworks and hidden treasures.

Small group size limited to 15 for a personalized experience.

Possibility of accessing VIP rooftop terraces if the upgrade is chosen, conditions permitting.

FAQs about Visiting The Met

Which days of the week is the museum closed to the public?

Both the Fifth Avenue and Cloisters locations are closed every Wednesday throughout the year.

Are there any major holidays when the museum is shut?

The museum remains closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25, January 1, and the first Monday in May.

Does my admission ticket cover both museum locations?

Yes, your entry ticket is valid for both The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters on the same day.

How late is the Fifth Avenue building open on weekends?

On Fridays and Saturdays, the main museum extends its hours until 9 PM.

What is the best way to reach the main building from the subway?

Take the 4, 5, or 6 trains to 86th Street and walk approximately ten minutes west to Fifth Avenue.

Is there a way to travel directly between the two museum sites?

During the summer, the M4 bus provides a direct link between the Fifth Avenue and Cloisters locations.

Can I store my luggage at the museum coat check?

Large bags and luggage are strictly prohibited and cannot be checked at the museum’s coat rooms.

Are wheelchairs available for visitors who need them?

Manual wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis at the coat check areas.

Is there a street-level entrance for visitors with mobility needs?

An accessible street-level entrance for the Fifth Avenue location is situated at 81st Street.

Can I use a stroller in the art galleries?

Strollers are generally permitted, though they may be restricted in certain crowded special exhibitions.

Am I allowed to take photos of the artwork?

Personal photography without a flash is typically allowed, but tripods and selfie sticks are strictly forbidden.

Where can I find a place to eat at the Fifth Avenue location?

You can visit The Eatery for casual fare or The Met Dining Room for a more formal seated experience.

Is there a seasonal dining option at The Met Cloisters?

The Trie Café offers seasonal outdoor dining within the tranquil medieval-style gardens of the Cloisters.

What is the policy for sketching inside the museum?

Sketching is allowed with pencils only to ensure the safety of the permanent collection.

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