Metropolitan Museum of Art - New York City, NY

Address:1000 5th Ave.
New York, New York
Tel: (212) 570-3894

A world-class museum filled with art of universal themes, the Met is an NYC gem and a must-see for all. Be sure to set aside a day or two to explore the millions of works of art ranging from classical antiquity to ancient Egypt in the country's largest art museum!

First opened in 1872 by a railroad exec with a great personal collection of art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art houses incredible exhibits, ranging from that created before the common era to art created in the 20th Century. Among the exhibited works are sculptures by Rodin and Degas and an abundance of American, Asian, African, Islamic and modern art. In its red brick, Gothic revival stone building, there are extensive collections of musical instruments, costumes, accessories and armor from around the world. There is even an entire temple housed within the museum which was a gift from Egypt. This is a big draw for kids who can throw coins in the surrounding pool. The children's book, "From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" is set in the Met, and a pre-visit read should give kids a personal feel for the location. Guided tours are available, as are gallery talks which focus on specific aspects of the museum's collection. There are also special exhibitions tailored to art students and professionals.

In addition to the endless art, visitors can enjoy movies, concerts, and lectures, as well as fantastic libraries and art lecture archives. Be sure to check out the rooftop garden, which offers great views of Manhattan, and don't forget to enjoy lunch at one of the 8 dining options at the Museum, from grilled sandwiches at the Cafeteria to the Petrie Court café, where European style service is set against the backdrop of Central Park.

To get here from the East side of Manhattan, take the 6 train to 86th St and walk 3 blocks west to Fifth Avenue, and from the West side, take the 1 train to 86th street and the M86 cross-town bus to Fifth Avenue. If dropping by during evening hours on Friday and Saturday, be sure to take advantage of the cocktail hour, when drinks are served accompanied by lovely chamber music. Whether you're a student, a child or professional art lover, the Met will definitely leave you coming back for more time and time again.

"The Met is the last good deal in New York. . . . It's like Central Park and the Met are for everybody. It's one of the things that makes New York really great."