The Metropolitan Museum of Art — simply “The Met” to New Yorkers — isn’t just a museum. It’s a world unto itself. With more than two million works spanning 5,000 years, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most visited museums in the world. Whether you’re drawn to Egyptian temples, glittering suits of armor, or Van Gogh’s brushstrokes, here are our best tips for visiting The Met. Plus, why joining a Walks tour is one of the smartest (and most fun) ways to experience this New York icon.
1. Plan Ahead: Choose Your Highlights
The Met is vast. Even the most dedicated art lovers can’t cover everything in one day. One of the most important tips for visiting The Met is to check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and note any gallery closures before you go. Then pick a few areas that excite you most — maybe the Impressionists, the Arms and Armor collection, or the majestic Temple of Dendur. Having a focus keeps your visit energizing rather than exhausting.
2. Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early
The museum tends to fill up in the afternoons, especially on weekends. One of our classic tips for visiting The Met: arrive when the doors open. Early mornings mean quieter galleries, more space to take in the masterpieces, and better photo opportunities.
3. Travel Light & Stay Comfortable
You’ll be on your feet for hours, so comfortable shoes are a must. Leave bulky bags behind if you can — anything too large will need to be checked, which slows you down. Staying light means more time for exploring.
4. Go Deeper with a Walks Met Tour
Exploring the Met on your own is rewarding — but joining a guided tour can bring the collection to life in unexpected ways. One of our top tips for visiting the Met is to consider the Meet the Met tour, led by passionate, knowledgeable guides who share the stories behind the art, from ancient relics to modern icons.
On a Walks Met tour, you’ll:
- See the museum’s must-visit highlights without wasting time searching.
- Learn the fascinating stories behind the objects (like why Egypt gifted the Temple of Dendur to the U.S.).
- Enjoy small group sizes for a more personal experience.
- Ask questions and follow your curiosity — something you can’t do with an audio guide.
Many guests tell us a Walks Met tour was the highlight of their New York trip, transforming their visit from “just another museum day” into a memorable cultural adventure.
5. Family-Friendly Visiting
The Met is surprisingly fun for kids. Families can pick up free activity booklets at the information desk, or plan themed visits around mummies, knights, or animals in art. Just keep visits short and engaging, and take advantage of the museum’s cafés for breaks. If you’re visiting with children, one of the best tips for visiting the Met is to plan shorter sessions and make use of the museum’s kid-friendly resources.
6. Take Breaks (and Don’t Miss the Rooftop)
Speaking of breaks: don’t try to power through. The Met has several cafés, and in warmer months, the rooftop garden offers spectacular views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. It’s the perfect spot to recharge — and grab that Instagram-worthy shot.
Fun Facts that will make your visit even better
- The Met opened in 1870, and its very first purchase was a Roman sarcophagus.
- The iconic façade on Fifth Avenue wasn’t completed until 1902.
- The museum’s collections are divided into 17 departments, covering everything from musical instruments to medieval tapestries.
- The Cloisters, a separate Met branch in Upper Manhattan, is dedicated to medieval art and architecture.
FAQs Tips for Visiting the MET
What are the must-see highlights at the Met Museum in New York?
Some of the best things to see at the Metropolitan Museum of Art include the Temple of Dendur (an ancient Egyptian temple reassembled inside the museum), the Arms and Armor Hall, the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist galleries featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, and the American Wing with its grand period rooms. A guided Met tour can ensure you don’t miss these highlights while also showing you hidden gems. When planning your trip, keep these tips for visiting the Met in mind so you can structure your time around what matters most to you.
How much time should I plan for a visit to the Met Museum?
If you want to see the highlights, plan to spend at least three hours at the Met. For a deeper visit — especially if you love art history — set aside half a day or more. Many visitors find a guided tour of the Met is the most efficient way to maximize their time without feeling overwhelmed.
Are guided tours of the Met Museum worth it?
Yes! A guided tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best ways to experience the collection. Expert guides provide context, skip-the-line entry, and curated itineraries so you see both the iconic masterpieces and fascinating details you might miss on your own. Walks’ Met tours are especially popular with first-time visitors to New York.
Is the Met Museum good for kids and families?
Yes! The Metropolitan Museum of Art is family-friendly, with free activity guides, themed trails, and kid-focused programming. Children often enjoy the Egyptian mummies, suits of armor, and animal-themed artworks. Families visiting the Met should plan shorter visits and take breaks in the cafés or rooftop garden.
Discover the Met with Walks
The Met is more than just a museum — it’s a journey across time and cultures. And while you can wander its halls on your own, joining a Walks Met Tour makes the experience richer, more personal, and a lot more fun.
If you want to see the highlights without the stress, uncover fascinating stories, and leave feeling inspired (not exhausted), join our Extended Metropolitan Museum of Art Tour, and let the experts guide you. For first-timers and seasoned art lovers alike, following these tried-and-true tips for visiting the Met will make your adventure seamless, memorable, and truly inspiring.
