Tucked away at the northern tip of Manhattan, The Met Cloisters offers a museum experience that feels far removed from the bustle of New York City. As an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this branch specializes in medieval art and architecture, housed in a building assembled from elements of European monasteries and castles. With a stellar 4.8 rating from over 9,000 reviews, it has clearly captured the hearts of many visitors. This review compiles what real visitors have said to help you decide if it's worth the trip uptown.
The Met Cloisters at a Glance
The Met Cloisters is located at 99 Margaret Corbin Dr in Manhattan, New York, and can be reached by phone at +1 212-923-3700. Its official website, part of the Met Museum's domain, provides planning information. Categorized as an art museum, museum, and tourist attraction, it sits within a scenic area adjacent to Fort Tryon Park, offering views of the Hudson River. The museum is known for its medieval gardens, courtyards, and extensive collection of tapestries, sculptures, and religious artifacts. Visitor reviews frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and the unique experience of stepping into a different era while still being in New York City.
What Do Visitors Like About The Met Cloisters?
Visitors overwhelmingly praise The Met Cloisters, with many describing it as a hidden gem and a transportive experience. A reviewer named Dolly Garnecki noted the quiet, pastoral setting and the sacred atmosphere, while Gerardo Sosa Gallardo highlighted the completely different experience compared to the main Met building. Lisa S expressed regret for not visiting sooner, calling it the perfect spot for medieval art and gardens. Reema Bhattacharya found the walk from the subway to the museum breathtaking and the collection awe-inspiring. However, a few reviewers offered mixed or critical perspectives: Lucy Nothing found the assemblage of architectural fragments from different European sources somewhat bizarre, and Angela noted that the museum is fairly small, which might affect perceived value for those not eligible for pay-as-you-wish admission. Overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 9,000 reviews.
1. A Peaceful Escape from the City
Many visitors emphasize the tranquil and contemplative atmosphere of The Met Cloisters. Dolly Garnecki described it as a sacred space where visitors speak in quiet tones, and Marcelo noted that the noise and pace of the city fade away as you approach the grounds. Regan Ewald called it one of the most transportive spots in NYC, where you feel like you've stepped into a completely different time period. This sense of calm is a recurring theme, making it a popular spot for those seeking a meditative break from urban life.
2. Medieval Gardens and Architecture
The gardens and architecture are standout features for many reviewers. Lisa S praised the garden tour for being informative, noting the historical aspects of plants used for culinary, medicinal, and even 'magic and witchcraft' purposes. Hailey was impressed by the size and the stunning architecture, while Trey Tollison highlighted that the building itself, assembled from salvaged elements of European monasteries and castles, is as much the attraction as the collection. The courtyards and cloistered gardens, planted with species common in medieval times, add to the sense of place.
3. The Unicorn Tapestries and Art Collection
The medieval art collection, particularly the famed unicorn tapestries, draws significant attention. Marcelo described the tapestries as breathtaking, rich in detail and color. Birch Kim mentioned that the Unicorn special exhibition was a great experience with various tapestries. However, Rachiro offered a caution: the unicorn tapestry is displayed near a violent tapestry depicting the hunt, which some may find disturbing. Trey Tollison also noted that the tapestries live up to their reputation but can be a little disturbing. The collection overall spans sculptures, manuscripts, jewelry, and everyday objects, offering an intimate glimpse into the medieval period.
4. Getting There and Practical Tips
Several reviewers shared travel tips. Gerardo Sosa Gallardo advised taking the A train to 190th Street and transferring to the M4 bus. Reema Bhattacharya mentioned that if you prefer driving, there is ample parking available. Angela warned that the climb to the museum is a bigger hike than expected. Once there, visitors recommend giving yourself at least 2-3 hours for a leisurely walk, as noted by Dolly Garnecki. Hailey suggested planning for at least an hour, as the museum is larger than it appears.
5. Family-Friendly and Community Vibe
The Met Cloisters is noted as being family-friendly, with a children's museum designation and good for kids. Estefania Velez observed that it is friendly for families and people of all ages, and also noticed many couples on dates. Woods Kenya mentioned that they offer art classes that you can walk in and join, which added to the community feel. The nearby park is also a draw for families, with Birch Kim suggesting a picnic in the large park in front of the parking lot.