Timeline
10:00
Enter the Metropolitan Museum of Art as it opens at 10AM. The early morning light fills the grand halls, and the crowds are still thin. Spend the first hour exploring the Egyptian Wing, where the architecture and artifacts set a serene tone for the day.
11:00
Café Fledermaus & Café Sabarsky
Walk six minutes to Café Sabarsky inside the Met. The room features beautiful wood furnishings and offers a quiet respite. Order a Viennese coffee specialty and a light savory dish or salad to enjoy before the lunch rush begins.
12:00
Stroll four minutes northeast to the Ancient Playground. Inspired by the nearby Egyptian Wing, this space features pyramid-like play structures. It is a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the park atmosphere just outside the museum walls.
Local tip
The Met is closed on Mondays. On other days, arriving at 10AM when the doors open is the best way to experience the galleries before they get busy.
Check before you go
- The Met is closed on Mondays.
- Café Sabarsky is closed on Tuesdays.
- Admission is $30 for adults, but NY State residents and students from NY/NJ/CT may pay what they wish.
Worth knowing
- Café Fledermaus & Café Sabarsky is open at 11:00 only on Mo, We, Th, Fr, Sa, Su
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to New York City (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).