Skip-The-Line Guided Tour in the Metropolitan Museum of Art

New York City , United States of America

Skip-The-Line Guided Tour in the Metropolitan Museum of Art

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(301 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the vast Metropolitan Museum of Art with ExperienceFirst. Over 2 million artworks spanning 5,000 years await. Our guides will make this journey extraordinary.

Be captivated by ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and European masterpieces. Explore contemporary expressions and gain profound insights into art's impact on our world.

For first-timers or enthusiasts, our tour offers engaging narratives, delving into history, emotions, and themes. Ignite curiosity and leave with a deeper appreciation for artistic expression. Experience the Met with us.

Available options

30 Minute Express Tour

Duration: 30 minutes: Skip-the-line ticket with 30-minute guided introduction (followed by self-guided visit)

2-hour Guided Tour

Duration: 2 hours: Skip-the-line ticket with 2-hour fully guided tour

What's included

Expert tour guide

Skip-the-line access to the Met

2-hour guided tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the Met with a guide who will help you appreciate its treasures spanning 5,000 years.
Discover new perspectives on old masterpieces from around the world.
Connect with the art on a personal level as you hear the stories and secrets behind these iconic works.
Explore the architectural beauty of America's largest art museum
In summer, enjoy the sweeping views of Central Park and the NYC skyline from the Cantor Roof Garden.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

52 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

249 reviews

5★

234

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This experience starts promptly, and you won't be able to enter the museum if you miss your tour. We suggest arriving 30 minutes early as there will be a line for the security check before you can meet your guide inside the Met.

We aim to show you the very best art at the Met. However, what’s on display can vary, so if an art piece we typically show isn’t available, your guide will substitute it with something else.

The Cantor Roof Garden is typically open from mid-April through October. In winter and early spring, our tour won’t include this stop.

Meeting point

The meeting point is inside the Met after the security check. Your guide will be waiting with your ticket by the pharaoh statue to the right once you enter the Great Hall. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early since there is typically a line for the security check.

Important notes

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information