New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the world’s most prestigious art collections and cultural hubs. Five million annual visitors stroll the Met’s 17 acres (6.9 hectares) of gallery space, gazing upon pieces representing 5,000 years of art and human history. From Egyptian tombs to American abstract expressionist paintings, the museum’s permanent collection has more than 2 million objects, so expect to stay awhile.
No, you don’t need a reservation for The Met, unless you’re bringing 10 or more people with you. Tour guides have to secure reservations for their groups, irrespective of group size. If you want to visit one of the museum’s special exhibitions, you’ll likely need to buy a timed admission ticket.
...MoreThe Met tickets are valid for one day and grant you access to both the main museum, The Met Fifth Avenue, and The Met Cloisters in Upper Manhattan. Tickets are only valid for same-day use, so it’s best to budget at least half a day for both museums.
...MoreYes, you can bring a backpack to The Met, provided it’s a small daypack that you can easily wear on your front or side. Large backpacks, luggage, and food or drinks from outside the museum aren’t allowed inside the galleries, though you can take in a bottle of water.
...MoreThe price of parking at The Met varies depending on the time of your arrival and how long you stay. It ranges from US$19 for up to an hour, after 5pm to US$55 for 24 hours. Discounted rates are available for members. Parking at The Met Cloisters is free.
...MoreYou’ll need around three hours to see the best of The Met, but you can easily spend much longer exploring the museum, home to more than 2 million works of art. If you’re in a rush, take a tour of the highlights or opt for the 1-hour tour that the museum operates.
...MoreThe best day to visit The Met is on Friday or Saturday, when the museum stays open until 9pm—it closes at 5pm on other days of the week. The Met is often less crowded in the evening, when you’ll have more time to see the galleries or head up to The Met Cloisters.
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