The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is not a museum you "finish." Two million objects span 5,000 years of human creativity — Egyptian tombs reconstructed stone-by-stone, Japanese tea houses, Rembrandt portraits, a rooftop sculpture garden with Central Park views. Don't try to see it all. Pick two or three sections and let the rest wait for next time.

**Don't miss:** The Temple of Dendur (a 2,000-year-old Egyptian temple in a glass-walled wing), Arms and Armor (the gilded jousting horses alone are worth the visit), and the American Wing's period rooms. The Astor Chinese Garden Court is a quiet pocket most visitors walk past.

**Local tip:** "Suggested donation" applies to NY, NJ, and CT residents with ID — you can pay what you wish. Everyone else pays full price ($30). Arrive at 10am opening or go after 5pm on Friday/Saturday (open until 9pm) to avoid crowds. Free coat check, phenomenal gift shop.

**Best for:** Rainy days, art lovers, families with older kids, repeat visits. Allow 3-4 hours minimum.