The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City is one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the world. Founded in 1870, the museum boasts a vast collection of art from every corner of the globe, covering over 5,000 years of history. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern and contemporary masterpieces, the Met offers an unparalleled experience for art lovers, historians, and tourists alike. However, one of the most common questions potential visitors have before embarking on their cultural journey is: how much does it cost to get into the Metropolitan Museum of Art?
This article will provide a detailed breakdown of ticket pricing, membership options, and the benefits of purchasing museum tickets in advance. By understanding the ticketing system and the available discounts, visitors can plan their visit to this iconic institution with ease.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Ticket Pricing: An Overview
The cost of admission to the Met varies depending on the visitor’s age, residency status, and which section of the museum they wish to access. The pricing model for admission to the museum has evolved over time, with both set and flexible pricing options available.
General Admission Prices
As of 2025, the standard ticket prices for general admission to the Met are as follows:
- Adults (19 and older): $30
- Seniors (65 and older): $22
- Students (with ID): $17
- Members and children under 12: Free
These general admission tickets grant visitors access to the Met Fifth Avenue location, which is the museum’s main building, housing iconic works such as the Temple of Dendur and the American Wing. Visitors can enjoy a vast array of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and armor, all housed in the museum’s expansive galleries.
Suggested Donation: Pay-What-You-Wish Model
The Met also offers a “Pay-What-You-Wish” model for New York State residents and students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
This allows visitors from these areas to pay whatever amount they deem fit for their admission, whether that is the full suggested price or a smaller donation. This model has made the Met more accessible to residents of the region, who can experience the museum on a more flexible budget.
Note: The “Pay-What-You-Wish” model is available only at the Met Fifth Avenue and Met Cloisters locations. Other special exhibitions, however, may still have set pricing.
Special Exhibitions and Events: Additional Costs
While general admission grants access to the museum’s regular exhibits, special exhibitions often have separate entry fees.
These fees vary depending on the exhibition’s scale, duration, and the artists featured. For example, a major exhibition such as the Met’s annual Costume Institute exhibit may have a higher entry fee, typically ranging from $15 to $25 for adults.
Special Exhibitions: Typically $25 – $35 per person
Members: Often receive free access to special exhibitions as part of their membership perks.
It’s worth noting that the Met also hosts seasonal events, including exclusive members-only previews, gallery talks, and artist walkthroughs. While some of these may be included with general admission or membership, others may require additional tickets.
Membership: The Best Value for Frequent Visitors
For those planning to visit the Met more than once during the year or those looking for an enhanced museum experience, membership provides exceptional value. There are several membership tiers that offer various benefits, including unlimited free admission, priority access to special exhibitions, and discounts at the museum’s cafes and shops.
The membership tiers and benefits are as follows:
Individual Membership ($100 annually): Offers unlimited free admission for one person, along with access to special exhibitions.
Dual Membership ($175 annually): Grants all of the Individual Membership benefits for two people.
Family Membership ($250 annually): Offers benefits for two adults and children under 18. This membership also includes invites to family-friendly programs and workshops.
Patron Membership ($500 annually): Provides all the benefits of Family Membership, plus invitations to exclusive events and private tours.
Members also enjoy special perks, including early access to special exhibitions, invitations to exhibition openings, and behind-the-scenes access to the museum’s collections.
Discounted Museum Tickets: Saving on Admission Costs
In addition to membership, the Met offers a range of discounts and benefits for specific groups of visitors:
New York State Residents and Students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut
As mentioned earlier, New York State residents and students from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut can take advantage of the “Pay-What-You-Wish” admission model. This is a fantastic option for residents and local students who want to experience world-class art without the standard price tag.
Active Military Members
Active military personnel and their families can visit the Met free of charge through the Blue Star Museums Program. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to offer free admission to military families during the summer months (typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day). The program includes more than 2,000 museums across the United States, and the Met is a proud participant.
Children and Teens
Children under the age of 12 enjoy free admission at the Met. This is part of the museum’s initiative to foster cultural appreciation and education from a young age. Additionally, the Met offers a range of educational programs for children and teens, many of which are free or low-cost, further enhancing its commitment to accessibility.
How to Save Money on Tickets: Purchase in Advance
One of the most efficient ways to ensure access to the Met, especially during peak seasons, is by purchasing museum tickets in advance.
This not only guarantees entry but can also help you avoid long lines at the ticket counters. The Met provides an online ticketing service where you can buy general admission tickets as well as tickets for specific exhibitions.
Purchasing tickets online in advance can sometimes result in discounts or special deals, such as discounted tickets for special exhibitions or bundled tickets that grant access to multiple museum locations, including the Met Cloisters.
Combination Tickets: Access Multiple Locations
The Met operates several locations across New York City. Visitors who purchase a combination ticket can explore not only the Met Fifth Avenue but also the Met Cloisters (a branch located in Fort Tryon Park dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe). Combination tickets, available for a few dollars more, offer excellent value for those wanting to visit both locations.
- Adult Combination Ticket: $40
- Senior Combination Ticket: $32
- Student Combination Ticket: $27
Combination tickets are valid for three consecutive days, allowing visitors flexibility and ample time to explore the different museum sites at their own pace.
Why Is the Met Worth the Admission Fee?
While the ticket prices for the Metropolitan Museum of Art are relatively high compared to many other cultural institutions, the value of the experience is unmatched. The Met is home to over 2 million works of art, making it one of the largest collections in the world.
Whether you are a connoisseur of classical art, a lover of Impressionism, or intrigued by ancient civilizations, the museum has something for everyone. Moreover, the Met offers various programs, tours, and educational events, ensuring that visitors of all ages can engage with the art in meaningful ways.
The museum tickets you purchase contribute not only to preserving and expanding this invaluable collection but also help the museum continue its mission of education and public engagement. With world-class exhibits, educational opportunities, and a rich history, a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art offers one of the most enriching experiences in New York City.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of getting into the Metropolitan Museum of Art varies based on factors such as age, residency, and which exhibitions you wish to see. For adults, the price typically ranges from $17 to $30, depending on the circumstances.
However, numerous discounts, membership options, and promotional deals make it possible for nearly everyone to enjoy this iconic museum.
