The Metropolitan Museum of Art
New York, United States · Museum
About The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as The Met, is the largest art museum in the Americas and one of the most visited cultural institutions in the world. Situated along the eastern edge of Central Park in New York City, it houses a permanent collection of over two million works spanning five thousand years of history. Its galleries showcase everything from monumental ancient Egyptian architecture to iconic European and contemporary masterpieces.
Don't miss
- Stand inside the glass-walled Sackler Wing to marvel at the ancient Egyptian Temple of Dendur.
- Admire legendary European masterpieces by painters such as Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Claude Monet.
- Wander through the expansive Arms and Armor galleries featuring ornate suits of steel and historic weaponry.
- Visit the Cantor Roof Garden during warmer months for outdoor art installations and panoramic views of Central Park.
Plan your visit
Visit on weekday mornings right at opening to beat the crowds, or stop by on Friday and Saturday evenings for a quieter experience with extended hours.
General admission requires a paid ticket, and booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry. New York State residents and select local students can access pay-what-you-wish admission at the on-site ticket counters.
Take the 4, 5, or 6 subway train to the 86th Street station and walk three blocks west toward Fifth Avenue. You can also catch the M1, M2, M3, or M4 bus lines running directly along Fifth Avenue.
Tips for visiting
- Wear comfortable walking shoes because the museum encompasses over two million square feet of gallery space.
- Pick up a printed map in the Great Hall or use the digital museum guide on your phone to navigate.
- Pack light since large backpacks and luggage are strictly prohibited and cannot be checked at the coat room.
- Select a few priority wings to explore rather than trying to see the entire collection in one visit.
- Stop by the on-site cafés for refreshments when you need a break from exploring the galleries.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art FAQ
Is photography permitted inside the museum?
Still photography for personal, noncommercial use is permitted in most permanent collection galleries. Flash photography, video cameras, tripods, and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited. Keep an eye out for special exhibition signage where photography rights may be restricted.
Can I leave and re-enter on the same day?
Yes, standard admission tickets allow same-day re-entry during regular operating hours. Make sure to keep your admission sticker on and hold onto your ticket confirmation. This makes it easy to step outside for lunch or a quick walk through Central Park.
Is The Met accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible throughout its public galleries and facilities. An accessible ground-level entrance with elevators is available at Fifth Avenue and 81st Street. Manual wheelchairs are also available free of charge at the coat check on a first-come, first-served basis.
Does the admission ticket include The Met Cloisters?
Yes, your general admission ticket includes same-day admission to The Met Cloisters in Upper Manhattan. The Cloisters is dedicated to the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe. Keep in mind that traveling between the two locations takes about 45 minutes by subway.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: Olga_Fil, Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay.