The Ultimate Guide to Visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, is one of the world’s premier art museums. Located in New York City, the Met is home to more than 2 million works of art, making it one of the largest art museums in the world. From ancient Egyptian and Greek artifacts to modern and contemporary works, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has something for everyone. This guide will provide an overview of the museum, its collections, and how to make the most of your visit.
Planning Your Visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and is closed on major holidays. Admission to the museum is a suggested donation of $25 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for students. Children under 12 are free. Keep in mind that the Met is one of the busiest museums in the world, so plan your visit accordingly.
What You’ll See at The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is home to an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and objects from around the world. The permanent collection is organized into 19 curatorial departments, including African, Ancient Near Eastern, and Islamic Art; Asian Art; European Paintings; Prints and Drawings; and Modern and Contemporary Art.
The Met also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions bring together works from the permanent collection, as well as pieces on loan from other museums and private collections. In addition, the Met regularly hosts lectures, performances, and other special events.
Exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art
When visiting the Met, it’s important to plan your visit in advance. Start by taking a look at the museum’s online collections, as well as the current exhibitions and events. Be sure to pick up a map when you enter the museum, as the Met is a sprawling complex with hundreds of galleries and rooms.
If you’re short on time, there are a few must-see galleries and exhibits that shouldn’t be missed. The Egyptian Art galleries are home to some of the world’s finest artifacts from Ancient Egypt, including the Temple of Dendur. The European Paintings galleries feature masterworks by artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and van Gogh. And the American Wing is home to more than 15,000 works of American art, including furniture, sculpture, and decorative arts.
Tips for Visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a vast and complex institution, and it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here are a few tips to help make your visit easier:
- Wear comfortable shoes: The museum is huge and there is plenty of ground to cover.
- Bring a water bottle: Stay hydrated while you explore the galleries.
- Bring a camera: Photography is permitted in most areas of the museum, so don’t forget your camera.
- Take advantage of the audio tour: The audio tour is a great way to learn more about the museum’s collections.
- Allow yourself plenty of time: The Met is one of the world’s largest museums, so don’t expect to see everything in one day.
- Visit the rooftop garden: The rooftop garden is a great place to relax and take in the views of Central Park and the city skyline.
- Download the Met app: The Met app is a great way to stay up to date with the museum’s exhibitions and events.