What to see at the met?

The Metropolitan Museum of Art  “The Met” is a treasure trove of artistic wonders that will leave you breathless. Here are the top 10 experiences you absolutely cannot miss:

1. The Temple of Dendur
This incredible Egyptian temple is a showstopper. Gifted to the United States by Egypt, this Roman Period temple features masterful carvings of royals, deities, and lotus blossoms. Located in a light-flooded first-floor gallery, it’s the perfect way to begin your museum adventure.

2. Dutch Masters Gallery
Art lovers, rejoice! The Met houses an extraordinary collection of 16th and 17th-century Dutch paintings. Don’t miss the five Vermeer paintings – more than any other museum in the world. Vermeer’s delicate treatment of light is simply magical.

3. George Washington Crossing the Delaware
This enormous painting by Emanuel Leutze is a must-see in the American Wing. Located in gallery 760, it’s an iconic piece that brings American history to life.

4. Musical Instruments Collection
Explore one of the world’s most extensive collections of musical instruments. With over 4,000 items, this is the largest such collection outside of Europe. The audio guide brings these instruments to life.

5. Islamic Art Galleries
Discover nearly 12,000 objects showcasing the diverse cultural traditions of Islam. The collection spans from Spain and Morocco to Central Asia and India.

6. The Costume Collection
Fashion enthusiasts will love the collection of over 35,000 costumes and accessories spanning from the 15th century to the present.

7. Period Rooms in the American Wing
Time travel through American history in meticulously recreated rooms. From a 17th-century Puritan room to a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed living room, these spaces are absolutely captivating.

8. Asian Art Galleries
Explore breathtaking collections from Japan, China, Korea, and other Asian cultures. Highlights include delicate scrolls, stunning ceramics, and the serene Astor Court.

9. European Paintings
Lose yourself in a remarkable collection featuring masterpieces by Brueghel, Velázquez, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. The galleries trace artistic styles from the late Middle Ages to the 19th century.

10. John Singer Sargent’s Madame X
Located in gallery 771, this sultry and iconic portrait is a must-see in the American Wing.

First Time Visitors Q&A to the MET

Location:
1000 5th Avenue, New York City (Central Park)

How to Get There:
– Subway: Take the 4, 5, or 6 train to 86th Street, then walk west to 5th Avenue
– Accessible by multiple bus routes

Ticket Prices:
– Adults: $30
– Seniors: $22
– Students: $17
– Children under 12: Free

Opening Hours:
– Thursday to Tuesday: 10 am to 5 pm
– Friday and Saturday: Extended hours until 9 pm
– Closed on Wednesdays
– Closed on January 1, first Monday in May, Thanksgiving, and December 25

Pro Tips:
– Book tickets online in advance
– Allow at least 3 hours for a comprehensive visit
– Download the Met app for an enhanced experience
– Consider a guided tour to get deeper insights into the collections
– Museum Mile Festival 2025 offers free admission to eight renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

image credit @bobbyfinders/IG