The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City - a fountain in a city
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art

4.8
·89k reviews·New York, United States

A world-renowned art museum housing vast collections from ancient to contemporary, offering endless discovery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City - a fountain in a city

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-renowned art museum housing vast collections from ancient to contemporary, offering endless discovery.

4.8
(89k reviews)

"It's huge, you can only scratch its surface in one visit. Pick two areas and move through them slowly."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Focus Your Visit

Don't try to see it all! Pick 2-3 wings that interest you most for a more enjoyable experience.

💰 Pay What You Wish (for some)

NY residents & students can pay what they wish. Others have a fixed admission. Check online or in person.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 92,447 reviews

Type

Art museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Temple of Dendur

Temple of Dendur

Egyptian Art Wing

An awe-inspiring ancient Egyptian temple, gifted to the US, offering a stunning centerpiece and a tranquil reflecting pool.

Arms and Armor

Arms and Armor

Second Floor

Explore one of the world's most exquisite collections of historical arms and armor, inspiring even 'Game of Thrones' creators.

Rooftop Garden

Rooftop Garden

Fifth Floor

Enjoy breathtaking city views and seasonal art installations, often with a bar offering specialty drinks.

European Paintings

European Paintings

Second Floor

Marvel at masterpieces from Impressionism to Renaissance, including iconic works by masters like Van Gogh and Degas.

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Planning Your Visit

Pace Yourself: It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint

The Met is vast! Don't try to see everything in one visit. Pick 2-3 areas that truly interest you and explore them deeply. Rushing through can lead to 'museum death march' fatigue. Consider focusing on specific wings or exhibits to truly appreciate the art.

Tickets & Entry: Smart Ways to Save

While general admission is 'pay what you wish' for NY residents and NY/NJ/CT students, others have a fixed price. Booking online can save time, but some Redditors suggest it's straightforward to buy in person. Check for student discounts if applicable.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (Thursdays)
Why
Extended hours, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

More fun facts by popular demand #met #metropolitanmuseumofart #jackieo #nyc #nycfacts #history #herstory #tourguide
@lizabanks11
499K likes • 3.2M views

🎯 Focus Your Visit

Don't try to see it all! Pick 2-3 wings that interest you most for a more enjoyable experience. Reddit

💰 Pay What You Wish (for some)

NY residents & students can pay what they wish. Others have a fixed admission. Check online or in person. Reddit

Ready for Part 2?? #melissaindenile #egypt #egyptian #egyptology #egyptologist #ancientegypt #egyptnews #themet #met #metropolitanmuseumofart #nedjemankh #antiquities #art #arthistory
@melissaindenile
60K likes • 570.3K views
Went to check out the Met Museum rooftop garden before it closes for a 5 year renovation. I had a hell of a view while I was up there... I guess the skyline is pretty cool too
graham.it.damn
30 likes • 0 views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Prioritize comfort to avoid foot fatigue. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Photography is allowed in most galleries, but check for restrictions. The rooftop offers great photo ops. TikTok

Arms and Armor wing absolutely rips at the Met #metropolitanmuseumofart #themet #tourguide #nychistory #armsandarmor #knights #kinghenry #newyorkcity
@lizabanks11
36.2K likes • 214.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Focus Your Visit

Don't try to see it all! Pick 2-3 wings that interest you most for a more enjoyable experience. Reddit

💰 Pay What You Wish (for some)

NY residents & students can pay what they wish. Others have a fixed admission. Check online or in person. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking! Prioritize comfort to avoid foot fatigue. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moment

Photography is allowed in most galleries, but check for restrictions. The rooftop offers great photo ops. TikTok

📱 Download the Met App

The official app can help you navigate and learn more about the collections. Reddit

☕️ Refuel at the Cafe

The Met has dining options, but some find it a 'food desert.' Consider a snack from a nearby market. Reddit

🖼️ Free Tours Available

Take advantage of free daily tours. Docents often pick unique highlights, making each tour different. Reddit

💡 Open Access Images

Download high-res images from the Met's website for free use in projects! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(89k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Met for its immense and diverse collection, with the Temple of Dendur and Arms and Armor wings frequently cited as highlights. The rooftop garden offers a welcome respite with stunning views. However, some find the sheer size overwhelming and dining options limited or expensive.

"It was my very first time at The MET and the experience was absolutely incredible! The staff at the reception were welcoming and attentive, and the ticket entry was smooth with no lines at all. Security was also very friendly, which made everything even more pleasant. Every gallery is breathtaking, and the history behind each piece makes it even more fascinating. You could easily spend hours and hours exploring without ever getting bored. Truly unforgettable!"

Ana Beatriz Costa

"Been here a few times and always love it. Best to buy tickets online in advance, saves time in line. If you carry small bags, security goes quickly. Check which exhibits are on before visiting, it makes the trip more exciting. Great for kids, friends, or just wandering solo. Souvenir shops are well stocked, and even sitting on the museum steps outside feels special."

Alena Baza

"World class museum with something for everyone. It’s a gem not to be missed by lovers of history, art, craftsmanship, pottery, fashion, and the curious. Artifacts from around the world are on display in one massive collection.
I’ve added just a few photos from a recent visit to the newly reopened Rockefeller Wing collection of Oceania, Africa, and ancient Americas, and the special exhibition of George Morrison’s paintings."

Paul Sheirich

What People Like

Vast and diverse art collection
Iconic Temple of Dendur
Impressive Arms and Armor

What People Dislike

Overwhelming size
Expensive dining options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Met is easily accessible via public transportation. The 4, 5, and 6 subway lines stop at 86th Street, a short walk away. Numerous bus lines also serve the museum, including the M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5. Driving is an option, but parking can be challenging and expensive in the area. TikTok

Yes, there is a parking garage located beneath the museum, accessible from Fifth Avenue. However, it can be quite expensive, and spots fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Many visitors opt for public transport to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

The 4, 5, or 6 subway lines to the 86th Street station are generally the most convenient. From there, it's a pleasant walk through Central Park to reach the museum's Fifth Avenue entrance. TikTok

Yes, re-entry is generally permitted. You'll need to go through security again upon your return. It's advisable to keep your ticket or proof of admission handy. Reddit

Absolutely! Several bus routes stop near The Met, including the M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5. These buses run along Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue, offering convenient access from various parts of the city. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is 'pay what you wish' for residents of NY and students from NY, NJ, and CT. For all other visitors, the suggested admission is $30 for adults, $22 for seniors, and $17 for students. You can purchase tickets online or at the museum. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to save time. Some Redditors suggest it's straightforward to buy in person, but pre-booking ensures your entry time. Reddit+1

The Met is typically open Sunday through Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It is closed on Wednesdays. Always check the official website for the most current hours. TikTok

Yes, students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut can take advantage of the 'pay what you wish' admission policy. For students outside this tri-state area, there is a reduced admission fee. Reddit

This policy applies to residents of New York State and students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. You can choose to pay any amount for admission. For others, it's a suggested admission fee. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the Temple of Dendur in the Egyptian Art wing, the Arms and Armor collection, the European Paintings galleries (featuring Impressionists and Renaissance masters), and the Costume Institute. The Rooftop Garden offers great views and seasonal art. TikTokReddit+2

It's impossible to see everything in one visit. A quick overview might take 2-3 hours, but to truly appreciate specific wings, you could spend a full day or even multiple visits. Many recommend focusing on 2-3 areas. Reddit+1

Yes, you can get a physical map at the information desk upon entry, or download the official Met app which includes an interactive map to help you navigate the vast museum. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most galleries, but not for commercial purposes. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions, so always look for signage. TikTok

Yes, The Met offers free daily guided tours, including highlight tours. These tours are a great way to get an overview and learn interesting facts from knowledgeable docents. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Met has several dining options, including The Petrie Court Cafe, The American Wing Cafe, and a rooftop bar/cafe on the Cantor Roof Garden. However, some visitors find it to be a 'food desert' with limited or expensive options. TikTokReddit

While there are cafes and a restaurant, they can be pricey. Some visitors suggest bringing your own snacks or purchasing a pre-made lunch from a nearby market like Butterfield Market if you want more budget-friendly options. Reddit

No, outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. There are designated areas where you can consume food you've purchased within the museum. Reddit

Yes, the Cantor Roof Garden features a bar and cafe that offers drinks and light fare with stunning views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. It's a popular spot during warmer months. TikTokInstagram

The dining options vary, from casual cafes serving sandwiches and salads to more formal dining experiences. The rooftop bar offers specialty drinks and snacks. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most galleries. However, flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage in exhibition areas. TikTok

The Cantor Roof Garden offers iconic skyline views. The Temple of Dendur, the Great Hall, and various architectural elements throughout the museum also make for stunning photographs. TikTokInstagram

Yes, phone cameras are permitted for personal photography in most areas. Just be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash. TikTok

Yes, flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are typically not allowed. Some special exhibitions may have complete photography bans. Look for posted signs. TikTok

Yes, The Met has an 'Open Access' initiative where you can download high-resolution images of many artworks for free for non-commercial use, which is fantastic for artists and researchers. TikTok

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