10 Things to Do in The Cloisters, New York City, United States
The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art located in the northern part of Manhattan, is a must-see destination for any visitor to New York City. This unique museum, built in the 1930s, is a stunningly beautiful recreation of a medieval monastery, complete with a Romanesque cloister, gardens, and galleries filled with art and artifacts from the Middle Ages. Here are 10 things to do in The Cloisters that will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Visit the Cloister Gardens: The Cloisters has four beautiful gardens that recreate the horticultural styles of the Middle Ages. The Cuxa Cloister Garden features a central fountain surrounded by a variety of plants, including roses, lavender, and boxwood. The Bonnefont Cloister Garden is a tranquil spot with a variety of herbs, including thyme, rosemary, and sage. The Trie Cloister Garden contains a variety of plants, including irises, lilies, and tulips. The Fuentidueña Chapel Garden is a peaceful spot with a variety of trees and shrubs, including cypress, pine, and olive.
2. Explore the Galleries: The galleries at The Cloisters are filled with artwork and artifacts from the Middle Ages. Highlights include the Unicorn Tapestries, a series of seven tapestries depicting the hunt for a mythical unicorn; the Romanesque tympanum, a stone relief carving of the Last Judgment; and the Treasury, which contains a variety of precious objects, including jewelry, coins, and religious artifacts.
3. Take a Tour: The Cloisters offers a variety of guided tours, including a general tour of the museum, a tour of the gardens, and a tour of the galleries. The tours are led by knowledgeable docents who can provide insight into the history and significance of the museum’s collections.
4. Attend a Lecture or Workshop: The Cloisters offers a variety of lectures and workshops throughout the year. Topics range from the history of the museum to the history of medieval art and culture.
5. Enjoy a Concert: The Cloisters hosts concerts throughout the year, featuring a variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and folk. The concerts are held in the museum’s chapel and are a great way to experience the beauty of the museum’s architecture.
6. Visit the Gift Shop: The Cloisters’ gift shop is filled with unique items, including books, jewelry, and souvenirs. The shop also sells reproductions of the museum’s artwork and artifacts.
7. Participate in a Family Program: The Cloisters offers a variety of family programs throughout the year, including art-making workshops, scavenger hunts, and guided tours. The programs are designed to help families explore the museum together.
8. Take a Hike: The Cloisters is located in Fort Tryon Park, a beautiful park with miles of trails and stunning views of the Hudson River. The park is a great place to take a hike or a leisurely stroll.
9. Dine at the Café: The Cloisters Café, located in the museum’s main building, offers a variety of light meals, snacks, and beverages. The café is a great spot to relax and refuel after exploring the museum.
10. Attend a Special Event: The Cloisters hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and workshops. The events are a great way to learn more about the museum and its collections.
The Cloisters is one of the most unique and beautiful museums in New York City. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, there’s something for everyone at The Cloisters. From exploring the gardens to attending a concert, these 10 things to do in The Cloisters will make your visit unforgettable.