An enchanting day awaits you at New York City’s Met Cloisters. The Cloisters, while located in New York City, will transport you to Medieval Times as you wander through the old stone hallways and staircases. If the architecture wasn’t splendid enough on its own, the art and artifacts on display will enchant you. Here is a simple guide to help prepare you for your visit!
Who will Enjoy the Cloisters
Although the Cloisters have story time, and children will enjoy the ambiance of the gardens, and the castle like atmosphere, I don’t think the Cloisters will hold the attention of most children under 12 years for longer than an hour or so.
Unlike museums like the Museum of Natural History, this museum isn’t as engaging for children and is geared more towards fans of history and architecture.
That being said, because children can enter for free, I think the experience of the Cloisters can be a welcome addition to your day in NYC, just don’t expect it to spellbind them for the entire day.
Gardens, Tapestries, and Halls
You may find yourself getting lost in the many rooms of the Cloisters. I almost missed one of the gardens, the west terrace, and the unicorn tapestries room! I would highly recommend grabbing a map when you enter so that you can keep track of what rooms you have been in.
Food
The Cloisters has fewer food options than the Met 5th Avenue. Your options at the Cloisters are limited to the Trie Cafe, which offers items like sandwiches, salads, and ice cream.
Parking
I arrived at the Cloisters roughly 30 minutes before opening on a Saturday. This allowed me to park right in front of the entrance on Margaret Corbin Drive.
By the afternoon, the parking lot had become a bit of a madhouse. There are other parking options available within Fort Tryon Park, but if you are looking to park near the entrance, it’s recommended to arrive early.
Reservations
You can buy tickets in advance or when you arrive! If you have a NY zip code, you can reserve your ticket online and adjust your pay-what-you-wish pricing once the tickets are in your cart. I chose to get my NYS ticket in person, and it was quick and painless.
Programs
At this time, the Cloisters offers a Garden Tour and Highlights of the Cloisters Tour. They are both free with admission but are first-come first first-served. I suggest arriving at least 10 minutes early to the meeting location on busy days to ensure you have a spot.
In addition to these tours, the Cloisters has other events like Drop-in Drawing, Story Time, Expert Talks, and More. A calendar can be found on their website here!
Cost
New York state residents can pay what they wish for admission! The same goes for students in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut if they have a valid student ID.
At the time of posting, adult admission is $30, seniors are $22, student $17, and children 12 and under are free!
Accessibility
The Cloisters have many stairs to reach the different rooms, gardens, and chapels. I would say that wheelchair and stroller access is limited, but not impossible.
Before your trip, I would encourage you to reach out to the Cloisters in order to determine which entrance will meet your needs and what accommodations there are, so you can best plan your visit.
App and Cell Service
Be warned, my cell service in the Cloisters was poor. Consider downloading the app and maps prior to your visit so you aren’t stuck searching for bars!
The Stairs!
If you want to explore Fort Tyron park, or the surrounding area, be warned… the Grand Staircase that you will need to utilize if you are exploring on foor is steep! There are over 100 steps, and in on a 90 degree day I worked up quite a sweat getting back up to my car! If you, or someone you are with, has limited mobility, consider another route down to Broadway.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and enjoy a peaceful day at the Cloisters! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions!