Understanding the Operating Hours of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often simply referred to as The Met, is a renowned museum that attracts millions of visitors each year. With two main locations, the Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters, it's essential to know about the operating hours to plan your visit. This article provides comprehensive information on the days that the museum is closed, current policies due to the pandemic, and the reservation process.

The Regular Operating Hours of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

For visitors planning to visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, it's important to note the regular operating hours. Both the main location, the Met Fifth Avenue, and its sister museum, The Met Cloisters, have slightly different operating schedules, reflecting their unique locations and exhibits.

Met Fifth Avenue

The Met Fifth Avenue is situated at 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York City, close to the heart of Manhattan. It operates on a detailed schedule that varies by season and special exhibits. Typically, the museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, with extended hours on Wednesday evenings from 10 AM to 9 PM, and on Friday and Saturday mornings from 10 AM to 9 PM. The museum is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, as is traditional for many major American museums.

The Met Cloisters

Located in Fort Tryon Park, the Cloisters branch, which showcases medieval art and architecture, operates with its own schedule. Generally, it remains open from Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 5:45 PM, with extended hours on Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM. As with the main museum, it is usually closed on Mondays and also on Tuesdays this year due to ongoing transformations.

Covid-19 Restrictions and Reservations

Due to ongoing public health concerns related to the pandemic, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has implemented certain safety measures and policies that visitors should be aware of. As of the writing of this article, both the Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. These days are set aside for ongoing maintenance and preparedness, as well as due to current health directives. Additionally, even on other days, you must make reservations to access the museums, reflecting the necessary control over visitor density to comply with public health guidelines.

How to Make Reservations

Reservations can be made through the museum's official website at Visitors are required to make online reservations at least 24 hours in advance. The reservation fee is $10 for adults and $3 for seniors (ages 65 and older) and students. Families can purchase a family pass for $25. These reservations can be updated or canceled through the online platform before the arrival date.

What to Expect With Your Reservation

Upon making your reservation, you will be assigned a time slot for your visit. Allocated spots are limited, and the museum enforces a strict capacity to ensure the safety of all visitors. During your visit, you will receive a timed entry ticket, which you will need to present at the museum entrance to gain entry. Please arrive 15 minutes before your reservation time to allow for a smooth entry process.

Additional Policies and Guidelines

In addition to making reservations, visitors should be aware of several other policies and guidelines:

Mask Requirements: Masks are required for all visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Health Screening: A brief health screening will be conducted at the museum entrance, including temperature checks. Social Distancing: The museum enforces strict social distancing measures throughout the premises. Hand Sanitization Stations: Hand sanitization stations are available at various locations within the museum.

Planning Your Visit

To fully enjoy your visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, it is crucial to plan ahead. Here are some practical tips:

Check for Special Exhibitions: Special exhibitions often attract large crowds, so it's wise to check the museum's website for upcoming exhibitions. Plan Your Itinerary: With over 2 million works of art, it's helpful to have a rough itinerary or plan certain exhibits you wish to see. Consider Visiting on a Weekday: Weekdays, particularly early in the day, can be less busy. Explore Virtual Tours: If you're unable to visit in person, the museum offers virtual tours and various online resources, including behind-the-scenes content and educational materials.

Conclusion

The Metropolitan Museum of Art provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors from all over the world. By understanding the operating hours, reservation policies, and health and safety measures in place, you can plan a visit that maximizes your enjoyment while adhering to the necessary guidelines. Whether you're exploring the permanent collections or partaking in special exhibitions, the Met offers a countless number of treasures to discover.

Keywords: Metropolitan Museum of Art, Operating Hours, Museum Closures