Published by: Guillaume Martin — Editor in Chief
Updated on 23 March 2026
Are you planning a trip to New York? Do not miss out on the three must-see museums of the city, true jewels of modern art.
Contents
Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Art Giant in New York
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or MET, is one of the largest and most visited museums in the world. Let us explore this temple of art.
History and location of the MET
Founded in 1872, MET is located at 1000 5th Avenue in New York. It spans nearly 180,000 square metres and welcomes more than 5 million visitors each year. In addition to the main building, the MET includes an annex near Central Park, named The Met Cloisters, dedicated to medieval art.
Collections and major works
The MET has 270 exhibition rooms with works by Monet, Van Gogh and Gauguin, as well as the Egyptian temple in Dendour. You will also find remarkable pieces from ancient Egypt, the Italian Renaissance, and Japanese armor. Temporary exhibitions are among the most innovative in the world.
Practical tips for the visit
Buy your tickets in advance and organize your tour by themes to maximize your time. The MET is open from Monday to Thursday from 10am to 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday until 9pm. Closed on Wednesdays.
American Museum of Natural History: Immersion in Nature
The American Museum of Natural History is the largest natural history museum in the world, perfect for a family outing.
A museum rich in natural treasures
Located on 8th Avenue, the museum presents 32 million specimens, including fossils, stuffed animals, and the famous Star of India, the largest sapphire in the world. Marine mammal and biodiversity sections attract many visits.
Main Attractions
The dinosaurs more real than nature and the meteorite gallery are essential. Interactive exhibitions such as the planetarium or 3D movies will delight small and large.
Tips for a successful visit
Visit early morning to avoid crowds and plan at least one day to explore everything. The museum opens from 10am to 5.30pm daily. The entry fee is $23 for adults, $18 for seniors and students, and $13 for children.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum : Avant-garde artistique
The Guggenheim Museum, a must of modern art. Discover the masterpieces and architecture of this museum.
A unique architecture
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and inaugurated in 1959, the Guggenheim stands out for its helical structure. The central atrium allows you to fully appreciate the building and the works it contains.
Inescapable collections
Here you will find works by Picasso, Kandinsky and Modigliani. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions highlighting the most prominent contemporary artists.
Plan your visit
Buy your tickets in advance. The museum is open from 11am to 6pm from Monday to Sunday, with variations depending on the exhibitions. The general rate is $25 for adults, $18 for students and seniors, free for children under the age of 12.
Comparison of New York museums
To help you choose, here is a comparison of the three major museums in New York.
To complete your artistic immersion after New York, discover the three most beautiful museums in Baltimore: experience, art and diversity in immersionA cultural getaway not to be missed.
Comparison table of key information
| Name | Type | Opening hours | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan Museum of Art | Article | 10:00-17:00 (Mon-Dim, closed sea) | 1000 5th Avenue |
| American Museum of Natural History | Natural History | 10:00-17:30 (Every day) | Central Park West & 79th Street |
| Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum | Modern Art | 11:00-18:00 (daily) | 1071 5th Avenue |
New York Museums FAQ
Do you have any questions about visiting museums in New York? Here are answers to common questions to optimize your experience.
What are the opening hours of the main museums?
Museums in New York usually open from 10am to 5pm, but this can vary depending on the day of the week and the exhibitions. Consult official websites for specific information.
How can I avoid the crowd in museums?
While waiting for the advent of virtual museums, buy your tickets in advance and visit the museums early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekdays and in a hollow period.
New York is full of extraordinary museums. The MET, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum each offer a unique and immersive experience. Plan your visit well to take full advantage of these iconic cultural institutions. Happy journey and artistic exploration in New York!
Sources:
The 12 museums to see in New York
The 5 museums you absolutely need to see in New York
Top 10 Must-Do Museums in New York
Updated on 23 March 2026
