SR

We only have three days in NY (10/6, 10/7 and 10/8) and a full itinerary. However, we don't want to leave without at least spending a few hours at the Met. What should we see and how should we spend our time? We have no preference. We just want to experience the Met for a few hours until the next time we return to NY and have more time. We've never been there, so any ideas, suggestions and tips are appreciated.

Also, we will be there over Columbus Day weekend. I understand the Met is normally closed on Mondays, but open on Columbus Day. Would that be a good day to visit? Monday would be better for us, but we will try to squeeze it in on Sunday if necessary. Saturday is completely out for us.

nytraveler

Monday would probably be a good day to visit - since it's not a holiday for most people. Without knowing you it's impossible to pick out which departments you would enjoy most.

Go to the web site and have a look at them to see what YOU like:

Some of the most popular are:

Impressionists
Costume Institute
Egyptian Department
European Paintings (old masters et al)
American Decorative Arts (set up in rooms of the period)

Gekko

Right now there's a fantastic exhibition of Dutch masterworks (28 Rembrandts, 5 Vermeers, etc.) that should not be missed. INCREDIBLE.

Also, the Greek & Roman wing just reopened, and it's fantastic. Don't miss the Etruscan chariot on the mezzanine, far south end.

Other popular galleries are the Impressionism. And don't miss the Temple of Dendur (back entrance is closed, as is most of the American wing, including the beautfiful sculpture garden).

www.metmuseum.org

Ryan

The Impressionist rooms and the Temple of Dendur are my two must sees.

Margo_Chester

Is there a (free) highlight tour given while you are there? That would be a nice way to get a brief overview of some of the collections, see the beautiful building and make some mental notes of what you would like to see more of on your next visit to the Met! Here is the museum's website: http://www.metmuseum.org and here is the link to the guided tours: http://www.metmuseum.org/events/ev_walktour.asp

escargot

third vote for Temple of Dendur!!

and also the suggestion as made earlier, familiarize yourself with the web site before you go, make some choices based on that and you can get the most of your few hours -

it is a beautiful museum - if the rooftop is open it is a fabulous view of Central park and beyond-

mclaurie

There will be a parade on Fifth Ave. on Monday which will cause havoc with traffic. The museum steps are actually a great spot to watch the parade, but it may make getting up there more difficult unless you take the subway. Early Sunday morning is always a less busy time everywhere in NYC, but esp. the museums.

The Impressionist collection is CLOSED (Howard said b/c of the Dutch masters exhibit).

easytraveler

It really all depends on your own interests because the Met is HUGE and has SOOO much to see that you could spend days there.

I'm more into Ancient art, so would agree that the Temple of Dendur along with the rest of the Egyptian collection is very worth while.

The Near East collection is wonderful as well and with the destruction of the Museum in Baghdad, these exhibits take on added value.

The Roman and Greek parts are great as well.

Then you could go to the Impressionists for a more modern era.

Geographically further, there are some wonderful Persian miniatures.

Are you certain you don't want to extend your stay in New York?

SR

Thanks everyone. I think for this trip we will start by seeing the Costume Insitute, Egyptian Dept. and Temple of Dendur, and possibly check out the rooftop, depending on time. What is the Impressionist? I can't seem to find it on website.

Also, didn't know about the parade. Is it worth seeing or avoiding?

HowardR

The Impressionist refers to the Met's collection of Impressionist paintings, which is one of the best in the USA. Unfortunately, it is indeed not available because of the Dutch Masters exhibit. Still, there is plenty to see. I second Gekko's recommendations!
If you go, the best advice is: Go early (the Met opens at 9:30.)

GoTravel

I third Gekko's recommendations.

Don't miss The Temple of Dendur.

yk

You can also consider taking a docent-guided tour - the highlights tour. That tour will pretty much bring you all over the museum and pointing out important pieces. After the tour, you can then decide which section interest you most and go back for a 2nd look. The tour is free and the tour schedule is available on Met's website.