The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as "The Met," is the largest and one of the most prestigious art museums in the United States.
Located on the eastern edge of Central Park along the famous Museum Mile, The Met houses an extensive collection that spans 5,000 years of art from every corner of the globe.
Founded in 1870, the museum’s vast and varied collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces, American art, Asian art, and modern and contemporary pieces.
The Met’s iconic Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue is a masterpiece in itself, offering visitors a grand and inspiring space to explore.
With over 2 million works of art, The Met provides an unparalleled opportunity to journey through the history of human creativity, making it a must-see destination in New York City.
Size: The Met covers an area of over 2 million square feet, making it the largest art museum in the United States.
Collection: The museum's collection includes over 2 million works of art, representing 5,000 years of human history, from ancient civilizations to contemporary art.
Departments: The Met has 17 curatorial departments, including Ancient Near Eastern Art, Arms and Armor, Costume Institute, and Islamic Art, each dedicated to specific areas of art and culture.
Visitors: The Met welcomes over 7 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited museums in the world.
Temple of Dendur: One of the museum's most famous exhibits is the Temple of Dendur, an ancient Egyptian temple dating back to 15 B.C., which was reconstructed in a stunning glass-enclosed wing.
Rooftop Garden: The Met’s rooftop garden offers panoramic views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline and features rotating art installations, making it a popular spot for visitors during the warmer months.
The Costume Institute: The Met Gala, hosted annually by The Costume Institute, is one of the most high-profile fashion events in the world, attracting celebrities and designers to celebrate and support the museum.
Cultural Diversity: The Met’s collection is incredibly diverse, featuring works from every continent and culture, including significant collections of African, Oceanic, and Byzantine art.
Educational Programs: The Met offers a wide range of educational programs, lectures, and workshops, making art accessible to all ages and backgrounds.
The best time to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art depends on whether you prefer a quieter, more contemplative experience or a lively atmosphere.
Early mornings, particularly when the museum opens at 10:00 AM, are ideal for those who want to explore the galleries with fewer crowds. This is a great time to appreciate the art in a more serene environment.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, making them a good choice if your schedule allows.
Late afternoon is another excellent time to visit, especially if you wish to enjoy the museum's rooftop garden (seasonal), which offers stunning views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.
The museum is open until 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, making evenings a perfect time for a quieter visit after the daytime rush.
Special exhibitions can draw larger crowds, so it’s wise to check in advance and plan accordingly.
The Met is on Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street, on the eastern edge of Central Park. The nearest subway is the 4, 5, or 6 train to 86th Street, about a 10-minute walk from the museum's main entrance.
Several bus lines also serve the museum: the M1, M2, M3, and M4 buses stop directly in front of the Met on Fifth Avenue, and the M86 crosstown bus stops at 86th Street. If you're already in Central Park, the museum sits right on the park's eastern boundary and is an easy walk from Bethesda Terrace or the Great Lawn.
Use our interactive NYC subway guide to plan your exact route before you arrive.
