Did You Know?

Did you know that New York City is a melting pot of cultures and languages? Over 800 languages are spoken in the city, making it one of the most linguistically diverse places on Earth. People from all over the world have made New York City their home, creating a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere.

Did you know that New York City is often called the "Big Apple"? The origins of this nickname are not entirely clear, but it gained popularity in the 1920s and '30s. It is believed that it was popularized by jazz musicians who referred to New York City as the "big apple" to mean the grandest city in the country.

Did you know that New York City is home to the largest park in the United States? Central Park, located in the heart of Manhattan, covers an impressive 843 acres (341 hectares). It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets and is a popular destination for outdoor activities, picnics, and cultural events.

Did you know that New York City's iconic skyline was significantly shaped by the construction of skyscrapers? The city is famous for its impressive collection of towering buildings, including the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and the Chrysler Building. These skyscrapers contribute to the city's unique and recognizable silhouette.

Did you know that New York City is made up of five boroughs? Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island are the five boroughs that make up the city. Each borough has its own distinct character, culture, and attractions.

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Metropolitan Museum Of Art

Explore the world-renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City, featuring an extensive collection of art and artifacts spanning over 5,000 years of history. Use this guide to plan your visit, and discover the must-see highlights and exhibits at this iconic museum.

About the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, founded in 1870, is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. The museum's collection includes over two million works of art, ranging from ancient to contemporary, and representing cultures from around the globe. With its vast galleries, engaging exhibits, and educational programs, The Met offers an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Getting There

The Met is located at 1000 Fifth Avenue, on the eastern edge of Central Park. You can reach the museum via public transportation, taxi, or on foot. The closest subway stations are the 4, 5, and 6 trains at 86th Street and Lexington Avenue, and the Q train at 86th Street and Second Avenue. Bus routes M1, M2, M3, M4, and M86 also serve the area.

Hours and Admission

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is open seven days a week, with the following hours:

Sunday - Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 25, January 1, and the first Monday in May

Admission fees vary for adults, seniors, students, and children. New York State residents and New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut students may pay what they wish, with valid identification. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the museum.

Highlights and Exhibitions

The Met's extensive collection is organized into various curatorial departments, including the following highlights:

Ancient Near Eastern Art
Arms and Armor
Asian Art
Egyptian Art
European Paintings
Greek and Roman Art
Islamic Art
Medieval Art and The Cloisters
Modern and Contemporary Art
Photographs

In addition to its permanent collection, The Met hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, lectures, and special events throughout the year. Check the museum's website for current and upcoming exhibitions.

Guided Tours and Audio Guides

The Met offers a variety of guided tours, led by knowledgeable museum staff or volunteers, which are included in the price of admission. You can also rent an audio guide for a self-paced tour of the museum's highlights and special exhibitions. Audio guides are available in multiple languages and for various age groups.

Facilities and Accessibility

The Met offers a range of facilities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. These include dining options, such as cafés and a restaurant, a museum shop, and coat check services. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms available. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, The Met provides assistive listening devices and offers sign language interpretation and verbal description tours for visitors with hearing or vision impairments.

Nearby Attractions

After your visit to The Met, consider exploring some of the nearby attractions in New York City, including:

Central Park: Located just outside the museum, Central Park is a perfect place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll.
Guggenheim Museum: A short walk from The Met, the Guggenheim Museum is an architectural marvel and houses a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art.
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum: Situated in the Upper East Side, this museum focuses on historic and contemporary design and offers interactive exhibits.
The Frick Collection: Located nearby on Fifth Avenue, this museum showcases a stunning collection of Old Master paintings and European decorative arts.

Tips for Visiting

Make the most of your visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art with these helpful tips:

Plan your visit in advance: With so much to see, it's essential to prioritize the exhibits and galleries that interest you the most. Check The Met's website for a map and information on the collection.
Visit during off-peak hours: The museum tends to be less crowded on weekday mornings and late afternoons. Friday and Saturday evenings, when The Met stays open until 9:00 PM, are also quieter times to visit.
Take breaks: The museum's size can be overwhelming, so take breaks in between galleries to rest and recharge. The museum's cafés, restaurant, and public seating areas provide excellent spots to relax.
Don't try to see everything in one visit: It's nearly impossible to explore the entire museum in a single day. Focus on your top interests and consider returning for multiple visits if you're in the area for an extended period.

By using this guide to plan your visit, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable experience at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exploring the countless treasures and masterpieces housed within its walls.