Historic cloister courtyard with arches and greenery

The Cloisters

The Cloisters, New York City: Complete Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Highlights

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Met Cloisters, a unique branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers visitors an immersive journey into the world of medieval Europe—right in the heart of Upper Manhattan’s Fort Tryon Park. Renowned for its authentic medieval architecture, tranquil gardens, and extraordinary art collections, The Cloisters stands as one of New York City’s most captivating historical sites. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on The Cloisters’ history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, top exhibits, travel tips, and nearby attractions to help you plan an unforgettable visit (Met Museum History; New York City Travel Tips; The Catholic Travel Guide; City Guide NY).

History & Significance
Visitor Information
Must-See Highlights
Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

History & Significance

Origins and Vision

The Cloisters, officially known as The Met Cloisters, was conceptualized in the early 20th century to create a space in New York City devoted to the art and atmosphere of medieval Europe. Philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr., played a pivotal role by acquiring land in Fort Tryon Park and funding both the collection’s acquisition and the surrounding park’s preservation, ensuring an atmosphere of tranquility and historical authenticity (Met Museum History; Responsible New York).

Key Figures and Construction

Much of The Cloisters’ core collection originated from American sculptor and collector George Grey Barnard, who assembled medieval architectural fragments in France. Rockefeller purchased Barnard’s collection in 1925, and architect Charles Collens was commissioned to design a museum that would seamlessly integrate these authentic elements. Construction began in 1934 and culminated with the museum’s opening in 1938, blending original Romanesque and Gothic features from five French cloisters with new construction for a harmonious, immersive environment (Classic New York History; Britannica).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Cloisters: The museum features architectural elements from Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Trie-sur-Baïse, Froville, and Bonnefont-en-Comminges, creating authentic cloistered courtyards and walkways.
Fuentidueña Chapel: A 12th-century Romanesque apse from San Martín at Fuentidueña, Spain, reconstructed stone by stone, serves as a dramatic venue for concerts and exhibitions.
Medieval Gardens: Five themed gardens are planted with species documented in medieval texts, offering insight into monastic life and medieval horticulture (The Catholic Travel Guide; Vogue).

Visitor Information

Hours & Admission

Hours: The Met Cloisters is generally open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays. Hours may vary on holidays, so always check the official website before your visit.
Tickets: General admission is $30 for adults, $22 for seniors (65+), and $17 for students. Children under 12 and Met members enter free. Admission is valid for same-day entry to both The Met Cloisters and the Met Fifth Avenue. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum (Met Museum Visitor Info).

Getting There & Accessibility

Location: 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, Upper Manhattan.
Public Transit: Take the A train to 190th Street; from there, it’s a 10-minute scenic walk through Fort Tryon Park. The M4 bus also stops nearby.
Parking: Limited, so public transportation is recommended.
Accessibility: Most galleries and gardens are wheelchair accessible. Elevators and ramps are available. Service animals are permitted. Visitors with additional needs should contact the museum in advance for assistance (Met Museum Accessibility).

Amenities & Tours

Trie Café: Seasonal indoor/outdoor café serving light fare, open April through October.
Museum Shop: Offers medieval-inspired gifts, books, and replicas.
Guided Tours: Free guided tours and audio guides are available, enhancing your understanding of the museum’s history, architecture, and collections (Met Museum Audio Guide).
Photography: Non-flash photography for personal use is permitted. No tripods or selfie sticks.

Must-See Highlights

The Unicorn Tapestries: A series of seven late 15th-century tapestries, celebrated for their intricate detail and enigmatic symbolism, depicting the hunt and capture of a unicorn (The Tourist Checklist).
Stained Glass Windows: Original medieval glasswork from French and German churches, casting colorful light and atmosphere.
Illuminated Manuscripts: Hand-crafted Books of Hours, psalters, and other masterpieces of medieval calligraphy and illustration.
Medieval Sculpture and Metalwork: Includes limestone statues, polychrome wood figures, reliquaries, and liturgical objects.
The Merode Altarpiece: A renowned Netherlandish Annunciation triptych attributed to the workshop of Robert Campin.
Fuentidueña Chapel: An awe-inspiring reconstructed Romanesque chapel, often used for concerts and special events (Vogue).

Gardens and Outdoor Spaces

The Cloisters’ gardens are a living extension of its galleries, featuring plants grown according to medieval gardening manuals. Each cloister garden is unique:

Cuxa Cloister Garden: Aromatic herbs and vibrant flowers in pink marble surroundings.
Trie Cloister Garden: Culinary and medicinal herbs with interpretive signage.
Bonnefont Cloister Garden: Over 250 plant species, including rare and endangered varieties.

Benches and alcoves provide quiet spaces for reflection among the blooms (The Tourist Checklist).

Nearby Attractions

Fort Tryon Park: Expansive walking trails, gardens, and scenic overlooks of the Hudson River.
Hudson River Greenway: Ideal for walking or biking with stunning river views.
Inwood Hill Park and Washington Heights: Explore local dining and culture.
Riverside Church: A historic New York City landmark within easy reach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are The Met Cloisters’ visiting hours?
A: Open Wednesday–Monday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Closed Tuesdays. Check the official website for holiday variations.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online or at the museum and include same-day admission to The Met Fifth Avenue.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, most galleries and gardens are accessible. Wheelchairs are available, and service animals are permitted.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, free tours and audio guides are offered daily.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Weekdays and mornings are less crowded. The gardens are most vibrant in late spring and early autumn.

Tips for an Enjoyable Visit

Dress Comfortably: The stone architecture can be cool; bring a light jacket.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: There is moderate walking throughout galleries and gardens.
Plan Your Transit: Public transportation is easiest; parking is limited.
Check for Events: Visit the events calendar for concerts, talks, and seasonal programs.
Photography: Allowed in most areas (no flash, tripods, or selfie sticks).
Shop & Dine: Enjoy the museum shop and Trie Café during your visit.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Met Cloisters remains a rare and authentic portal into medieval Europe, offering a peaceful retreat filled with art, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking inspiration, this museum provides a singular New York City experience. For more information, tickets, and updated hours, visit the official website.

Enhance your visit: Download the Audiala app for curated audio tours and up-to-date museum insights. Follow us on social media and explore our related articles to discover more New York City cultural gems.