Exploring the MET Cloisters
Fringe Wrap || Button-Down Shirt || Jeans || Booties || Tote Bag || Sunglasses || Earrings || Watch
I’ve shared on here several times my deep love for the Met Museum. Located on the edge of Central Park and glamorous Fifth Avenue, it’s my top destination if I want some ‘me’ time. I could wander through all day, have on many occasions, and never get bored. I took the plunge last year to become members and it was the best decision! What you may not know is that there are two other museums within the Met network. Last weekend, David and I decided to go explore the Met Cloisters.
What is a Cloister?
A cloister, simply, is a covered walkway surrounding an open gallery. You don’t see them as often in the United States. Think about what you may see at the ancient cathedrals or monasteries of Europe. Although hardly ancient, built in 1938, the Met Cloisters was founded by John D. Rockefeller with this aesthetic in mind. This museum has four to its name, taken from different European abbeys.
Where is it and how do I get there?
The Cloisters is located at the very top of Manhattan island, in Fort Tryon Park. It’s still part of New York City, but you’ll feel like you’re far away from the city crowds. There are two main ways of getting there, depending what side of the city you’re on. Coming from the Upper East Side, it would be easiest to hop on a M4 bus, with The Cloisters being the final stop. Instead, we decided to walk through Central Park, which is always a nice stroll, to grab the A train on the West Side. Whichever route you take, it’s going to be about a 45 minute journey, but incredibly easy.
What will I find there?
Similar to the architecture, this museum is dedicated to nearly 5,000 pieces of early European art. Three 12th century chapels have also been rebuilt to make for an almost religious experience. Currently, the Colmar family treasure, of beautiful rings and brooches, is on display.
What really drew me to visit, especially in the fall, were the views. Situated at the edge of a hill, it’s also one of the tallest points in Manhattan. This is simply perfect to take in the scenery of the Hudson River. It’s may just be the best place to see the fall foliage. In order to preserve the view, John Rockefeller also bought the land directly across the river, in the New Jersey Palisades. From here, Midtown Manhattan seems like a thousand miles away.
What else is nearby?
I think a huge piece of appeal comes from its somewhat remote location. You’re not going to find endless shops and restaurants like you will in the rest of Manhattan. I invite you to wander Fort Tryon Park and the Washington Heights neighborhood. Predominantly hispanic, Malecon, is one of the most popular Dominican restaurants.
If you’re in New York for a quick trip, I can understand the Cloisters not being at the top of your list. However, if you’re a local or frequent visitor who wants to experience something new, it definitely deserves a trip. In my short time since moving here, I’ve found that the best experiences come from going out and visiting something new!
Love from NYC,
Katie
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