The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, is the largest art museum in the United States. Located in New York City, it houses over 2 million works of art from all over the world, spanning thousands of years. It’s one of the most visited museums in the world and is a cornerstone of American culture. But is it free to visit?
The answer is yes and no. The Met does not charge an admission fee for its permanent collection galleries and exhibitions. Its mission statement is to “provide access for all”, and it lives up to this promise by offering free admission to anyone under 12 years old and any New York State resident with a valid ID.
The Met also offers numerous ways for visitors to enjoy the museum without spending money. They offer public tours led by expert guides, as well as audio tours that highlight permanent collections and exhibitions. Plus, they host a variety of events throughout the year that are completely free to attend such as movie screenings, concerts, talks, workshops, and more.
However, there are some areas where there is an admission fee. The Met Cloisters in Upper Manhattan charges an admission fee for adults over 18 years old. Additionally, special exhibitions require a ticket purchase – although discounts are often available for seniors and students with valid IDs or military personnel with a valid ID.
Ultimately, while there are some areas at The Metropolitan Museum of Art that require admission fees or ticket purchases for special events or exhibits – overall it’s free to visit and explore the majority of what this iconic museum has to offer.
Conclusion:
Yes, The Metropolitan Museum of Art is free to visit for most people – though there may be additional fees required for certain exhibitions and events.