This charming enclave of The Met is housed in a re-constructed ensemble designed to resemble a medieval-era monastery on four acres in Fort Tryon Park.  Located in the Bronx, the lovely park runs along the Hudson, with views across the river of the New Jersey Palisades’ plateau, and is beautiful in the spring.

The museum focuses on medieval art, architecture and gardens with the main focus on religious artifacts. It’s not large, but beautifully appointed and you truly feel you are transported to a hilltop somewhere in Europe.  It’s hard to believe you are a short subway ride from the middle of Manhattan.

Open since 1938, The Met Cloisters has been heavily endowed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., including the gift of the famous Unicorn Tapestries, my favorite. There is an incredible collection of striking tapestries on display.  Exhibits span from the Romanesque through the Gothic periods. 

If You Go:

Open seven days a week, during the day from 10 AM, closing hours vary slightly by season, so check the website for up-to-date details.  Adults $25; seniors $17; Students $12 and children under 12 free.  Tickets also entitle same-day admission to other Met museums. If you go by subway, take the “A” train to the 190 Street stop and walk through the gardens to the museum.  Or, grab an Uber to 99 Margaret Corbin Drive.  There is a nice gift shop as well as a café (open April – October) on premises.

http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/met-cloisters