Background

The Met Cloisters: A Medieval Masterpiece in Manhattan

Discover medieval art and architecture at The Met Cloisters, a tranquil museum and garden in Fort Tryon Park with stunning Hudson River views.

4.8

The Met Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, transports visitors to medieval Europe. Located in Fort Tryon Park, it houses a stunning collection of medieval art and architecture within a reconstructed monastery setting, offering a serene escape with breathtaking views of the Hudson River.

A brief summary to The Met Cloisters

  • Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Grab a map upon entry to navigate the museum's many passageways and ensure you don't miss any areas.
  • Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the museum and gardens to fully appreciate the collection.
  • Visit during the spring or fall to enjoy the gardens at their peak and avoid the summer crowds.
  • Enhance your visit with the free digital guide available on the Bloomberg Connects app.
  • Check the museum's website for daily guided tours, which are included in the ticket price.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach The Met Cloisters via public transport, take the A train to the Dyckman Street station. From there, transfer to the M4 bus, which stops directly at the museum's parking lot. The M4 bus ride is approximately 10-15 minutes. A single subway or bus fare is $2.90. Alternatively, from the Dyckman Street station, you can walk to the museum, which is approximately a 20-minute uphill walk.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Midtown Manhattan, a taxi or ride-sharing service to The Met Cloisters will take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The typical cost for a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft ranges from $40 to $60. Note that during peak hours, prices may be higher. The address to provide the driver is 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, New York, NY 10040.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the Henry Hudson Parkway to the 96th Street exit. Follow signs to Fort Tryon Park and The Met Cloisters. Free parking is available in Fort Tryon Park, but spaces are limited and timed. Nearby paid parking garages are also available on Dyckman Street and Broadway. Be aware that parking can be challenging to find, especially on weekends. There are two designated spaces for disabled parking permit holders.

Unlock the Best of The Met Cloisters

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Met Cloisters

The Met Cloisters, perched atop a hill in Fort Tryon Park in northern Manhattan, is a unique museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. This branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art incorporates portions of five medieval cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating an immersive experience that evokes the tranquility and artistry of the medieval world. Founded by George Grey Barnard, an American sculptor and medieval art enthusiast, and later acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art with the help of John D. Rockefeller Jr., The Cloisters opened in 1938. The museum's design, by architect Charles Collens, blends original medieval elements with a contemporary structure, offering visitors a seamless journey through time. The Cloisters' collection comprises over 5,000 works of art from medieval Europe, dating from the 9th to the 16th century. Highlights include the famed Unicorn Tapestries, intricate stained-glass windows, illuminated manuscripts, sculptures, and religious objects. The museum also features three medieval chapels, including the Fuentidueña Chapel, and reconstructed Romanesque and Gothic cloisters, each with its unique garden. These gardens, planted according to medieval horticultural practices, enhance the visitor's understanding of medieval life. A visit to The Met Cloisters offers a peaceful retreat from the city, with stunning views of the Hudson River and a chance to contemplate art from the Middle Ages. The museum's serene atmosphere and exceptional collection make it a must-see destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Popular Experiences near The Met Cloisters

Popular Hotels near The Met Cloisters

Select Currency