The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

The largest art museum in the Western Hemisphere and NYC's most visited museum, with nearly 2 million works spanning 5,000 years — from Egyptian antiquities to the Costume Institute (home of the Met Gala). The rooftop has a seasonal bar with sweeping Central Park views. Budget at least half a day; most visitors barely scratch the surface in one trip.

Best For: First-time visitors, art lovers, families

Address: 1000 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10028