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The Met Cloisters: A Medieval Escape in Manhattan

Explore a Hidden Gem of New York City

Nestled in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, The Met Cloisters transports visitors to medieval Europe without ever leaving the city. Operated by The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Cloisters is dedicated exclusively to the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe, making it a must-see cultural destination for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re a lover of Gothic architecture, medieval tapestries, or simply in search of a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, The Met Cloisters offers a unique and enriching experience just a short train ride away.

About this Attraction
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    What to See at The Met Cloisters

    Architectural Wonders

    The museum is designed to resemble a European monastery, constructed using elements from actual medieval buildings imported from France and Spain. Walk through its serene cloistered gardens, arched walkways, and stone halls to discover a rich tapestry of history and artistry.

    The Unicorn Tapestries

    Among The Met Cloisters’ most famous treasures are The Unicorn Tapestries, a series of stunning 15th-century works that capture both myth and symbolism in vivid detail. These iconic pieces are a favorite of both art historians and first-time visitors.

    Garden Sanctuaries

    Don’t miss the meticulously cultivated medieval gardens, where plants used in historic medicinal remedies and monastic life still thrive today. Seasonal blooms, fragrant herbs, and peaceful courtyards make for the perfect reflective stroll.

    Combine Art and Nature

    Your visit begins before you enter the museum. Fort Tryon Park, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces, surrounds The Cloisters with winding paths, sweeping river views, and the Heather Garden, one of the highest points in Manhattan.

    A large stone building with a tall rectangular tower and red-tiled roof, the Met Cloisters is surrounded by trees and ivy-covered stone walls under a blue sky.

    What are the Met Cloisters?

    The Met Cloisters is one of New York City’s most peaceful and transportive museum experiences. A branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this hidden gem focuses entirely on the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe.

    When can you visit?

    Visit the museum Thursday–Tuesday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Closed Wednesdays).

    Where are the Met Cloisters?

    A peaceful medieval-style courtyard garden inspired by the Met Cloisters, with a stone fountain in the center, surrounded by lush greenery, flowering plants, and arched walkways under a sunny sky.

    The museum is located at 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tyron Park, New York NY 10040. Click below for directions. 

    Directions

    Take Amtrak to Grand Central Terminal

    Experience this unforgettable attraction via Amtrak to Grand Central Terminal in New York City—Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount! From Midtown Manhattan, take the A train to 190th Street—just steps from the museum. The scenic walk through Fort Tryon Park is an experience in itself.

    Get 15% Off

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