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Metropolitan Opera

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 240 min.

Ages: 8+

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Metropolitan Opera is a world-renowned opera house located in New York City, and is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in the arts. The opera house offers a range of performances from classic operas to contemporary productions, featuring some of the most talented performers from around the world. Attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera is an opportunity to witness the beauty and drama of operatic art at its highest level. The stunning stage sets, elaborate costumes, and world-class musical performances combine to create an unforgettable experience that appeals to both seasoned opera enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. In addition to the performances, the Metropolitan Opera offers a range of behind-the-scenes tours and talks that allow visitors to explore the history and inner workings of the opera house. The tour includes a visit to the costume department, the wig and makeup room, and the orchestra pit, giving visitors a glimpse into the incredible attention to detail and skill required to produce an opera.

Lincoln Center, New York, NY 10023 Get Directions





Metropolitan Opera Videos

Lise Davidsen sings the title character’s Act II aria in the Live in HD transmission. Production: David McVicar. Conductor: Yannick Nézet-Séguin. 2024–25 season.

Quinn Kesley, as Scarpia, and the Met Chorus sing an excerpt from Act I in a recent performance. Production: David McVicar. Conductor: Yannick Nézet-Séguin. 2024–25 season.

Quinn Kelsey sings an excerpt from Scarpia’s Act II aria in a recent performance. Production: David McVicar. Conductor: Yannick Nézet-Séguin. 2024–25 season.

Lise Davidsen sings the title character’s Act II aria in a recent performance. Production: David McVicar. Conductor: Yannick Nézet-Séguin. 2024–25 season.

Elza van den Heever, as the Empress, sings an excerpt from Act III in an early stage rehearsal. Production: Herbert Wernicke. Conductor: Yannick Nézet-Séguin. 2024–25 season. Videography by Pete Scalzitti.

Freddie De Tommaso and Lise Davidsen sing an excerpt from Cavaradossi and the title character’s Act III duet in the opening performance. Production: David McVicar. Conductor: Yannick Nézet-Séguin. 2024–25 season. Videography by Pete Scalzitti.

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Metropolitan Opera News

Opera Australia Celebrates 100 Years of Puccini's TURANDOT With New Production

Marking 100 years since it first premiered, Opera Australia will present a spectacular, brand-new production of Puccini’s final and iconic opera Turandot, by International Director and Choreographer Ann Yee.

Review: Not a Classic Dutch Treat Event, But an Extraordinary Classical One

Nimet Habachy, WQXR's All Night DJ for 42 years, and Kamel Boutros, Metropolitan Opera Baritone, thrilled the Dutch Treaters on 12/2. See photos from the event.

Works & Process at the Guggenheim Unveils Spring 2026 Season

Throughout spring 2026, Works & Process will present a full slate of dynamic programs at Guggenheim New York, along with a special Martha Graham Dance Company performance at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice on May 8, coinciding with the opening of the Venice Biennale.

A 2025 Guide To New York City’s Under-the-Radar Holiday Highlights

New York City is home to a wide range of holiday attractions beyond its most famous seasonal destinations. From specialty pop-ups and historic venues to neighborhood light displays and winter markets, these hidden gems offer distinct ways to experience the city during December. Learn more about NYC's lesser-known locations and events across the five boroughs.

San Francisco Opera Guild Honors Maria Manetti Shrem at AN EVENING ON THE STAGE Gala

San Francisco Opera Guild honored philanthropist Maria Manetti Shrem at its 2025 An Evening on the Stage gala on November 19 at the War Memorial Opera House.

Berkshire Opera Festival Reveals 2026 Summer Season Featuring New Resident Artist Program

Berkshire Opera Festival will introduce a major expansion of programming in 2026 with the launch of its Resident Artist Program alongside three productions: Lucia di Lammermoor, Beauty and the Beast (Zémire et Azor), and Schubert’s Winterreise.

Video: First Look at THE GERSHWINS' PORGY & BESS at the Metropolitan Opera

The Metropolitan Opera has released first look videos of their new production of Porgy & Bess. Conducted by Kwamé Ryan, the Gershwins’ great American classic returns to the Met, featuring electrifying choreography by Camille A. Brown.

Marla Mindelle & Josh Sharp to Lead A KIDMAN CAROL By Kevin Zak

Marla Mindelle and Josh Sharp will star as Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett, respectively, in a developmental production of A Kidman Carol: A Gay Dementia On Australian Dames. The play is written and directed by Kevin Zak (Ginger Twinsies).

Music Worcester To Present The American Spiritual Ensemble Mechanics Hall In January

Music Worcester will present the American Spiritual Ensemble in concert on Saturday, January 10 at Worcester's historic Mechanics Hall. The performance launches an eighteen month-long residency featuring concerts, community events, and educational initiatives throughout Worcester

Tiler Peck to Return to Westside Ballet to Perform in THE NUTCRACKER

This Thanksgiving weekend, New York City Ballet principal Tiler Peck returns to Westside Ballet of Santa Monica-performing as the Sugar Plum Fairy at the nonprofit performance arm of the academy where she trained as a young girl.

Full Cast and Creatives Set For AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS at Lincoln Center

Lincoln Center Theater has announced the complete cast and creative team for the brand-new production of the beloved family opera Amahl and the Night Visitors, the first seasonal family offering in LCT history.

Nominations Announced for the 2025 BESSIE AWARDS

The New York Dance and Performance Awards, known as THE BESSIES, will announce the 2024 and 2025 honorees at a ceremony on January 20 at Dixon Place. This year’s nominations span choreography, performance, design, and revival categories.

Houston Grand Opera to Present PEACE IN THE TRENCHES: THE STORY BEHIND SILENT NIGHT

Houston Grand Opera will host a panel discussion at the Alliance Française Houston, “Peace in the Trenches: The Story Behind Silent Night.” The conversation will reflect upon Kevin Puts and Mark Campbell's 2011 opera, Silent Night.

Immersive New Musical MIDNIGHT AT FORBIDDEN CITY Will Receive Staged Reading With All-Asian Team

A staged reading of Midnight at Forbidden City, an immersive new musical inspired by the trailblazing Asian American performers of San Francisco's legendary Forbidden City nightclub.

Nadine Sierra Comes to Teatro Colon Next Month

Situada entre las sopranos más reconocidas de la escena operística actual, ha sido convocada para interpretar roles protagónicos en la Metropolitan Opera House de Nueva York; los teatros alla Scala de Milán y Real de Madrid; y mas.


Metropolitan Opera Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Metropolitan Opera

The closest subway stops to the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center are the 66th Street-Lincoln Center station (served by the 1 train) and the 72nd Street station (served by the 1, 2, and 3 trains). Both stations are just a short walk away from the opera house.

If you're looking for subway updates or want to plan your route, I recommend checking the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/. This website provides real-time updates on subway service changes, delays, and other important information.

Additionally, Lincoln Center is a cultural hub with a variety of attractions and activities. While you're in the area, I suggest exploring the beautiful Lincoln Center campus, which includes iconic venues like the David Geffen Hall, the David H. Koch Theater, and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. You can also enjoy a stroll through the nearby Central Park or visit the nearby Columbus Circle, which offers shopping, dining, and great views of the city.

I hope you have a fantastic time at the Metropolitan Opera and enjoy everything that Lincoln Center has to offer!


What's the best way to get to Metropolitan Opera by bus?

The Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center is located on Broadway, between 63rd and 64th Streets. There are several bus stops near the opera house that you can use to get there. Here are the closest ones:

1. Broadway/W 64 St: This bus stop is right in front of the Metropolitan Opera. You can check the latest bus schedules and routes on the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/.

2. Broadway/W 63 St: This bus stop is just a few steps away from the opera house. You can find more information about bus routes and updates on the MTA website mentioned above.

3. Columbus Circle: This is another nearby bus stop located at the intersection of Broadway, Central Park West, and 59th Street. From here, it's a short walk to the Metropolitan Opera. For bus schedules and real-time updates, visit the MTA website.

Remember to check the MTA website for any changes or service disruptions before you travel. Enjoy your visit to the Metropolitan Opera!


How much time should I plan to spend at Metropolitan Opera?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Metropolitan Opera in New York City depends on a few factors. If you are a passionate opera lover and want to immerse yourself in the full experience, I would recommend setting aside an entire evening. Most opera performances at the Met have a runtime of approximately three to four hours, including intermissions.

However, if you have a tight schedule or are looking for a shorter visit, you can consider attending a matinee performance. Matinees typically start in the afternoon and have a shorter runtime, usually around two to three hours. This allows you to enjoy a world-class opera performance without dedicating your entire evening.

Keep in mind that the Met is not just about the performance itself. The iconic Lincoln Center, where the opera house is located, offers stunning architecture, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere. Arriving early or staying after the show to explore the surroundings can enhance your overall experience.

In conclusion, plan to spend an evening at the Metropolitan Opera for a complete opera experience, or opt for a matinee if you have limited time. Either way, you are in for a treat of exceptional music, talented performers, and a memorable night in the heart of New York City.


Can I bring food and drinks into Metropolitan Opera?

The Metropolitan Opera in New York City has a food and drink policy that allows patrons to bring beverages into the theater, but outside food is not permitted. You can purchase drinks and snacks at the opera house's concession stands before the performance and during intermission. They offer a variety of refreshments, including soft drinks, coffee, wine, beer, and light snacks. Enjoy your time at the opera, and don't forget to indulge in some treats during intermission!


Does Metropolitan Opera offer luggage storage?

The Metropolitan Opera in New York City does not have a luggage storage policy. However, they do have a coat check service available for patrons to store their coats and small personal items during performances. It is important to note that large bags or suitcases are not allowed inside the theater, so it is best to make arrangements for storing your luggage elsewhere before attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera. There are several luggage storage services available in the city, such as luggage storage facilities near major transportation hubs or at hotels that offer this service to non-guests for a fee.


Is Metropolitan Opera a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Absolutely! The Metropolitan Opera in New York City is a fantastic experience for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While the performances are primarily in Italian, French, German, and Russian, the Met provides English translations in the form of projected supertitles above the stage. This allows everyone in the audience to follow along with the story and fully appreciate the incredible vocal performances.

Attending a performance at the Metropolitan Opera is a great way to immerse yourself in the world of opera and experience the grandeur of one of the world's most prestigious opera houses. The stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and world-class talent make for an unforgettable evening.

If you're visiting from another country, be sure to check the Met's schedule in advance and book your tickets early, as performances often sell out quickly. Additionally, the Met offers backstage tours, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the opera house and its history.

So whether you're an opera aficionado or simply curious about this art form, the Metropolitan Opera is a must-visit destination for visitors to New York City, regardless of language proficiency.


What ages are appropriate for Metropolitan Opera?

The Metropolitan Opera in New York City welcomes opera lovers of all ages! However, it is important to consider the length and content of the performances when bringing young children. While there is no strict age restriction, it is generally recommended that children be at least 8 years old to fully appreciate and enjoy the opera experience. The operas can be quite lengthy, often spanning several hours, so it's important to ensure that children have the attention span to sit through a performance. Additionally, some operas may contain mature themes or intense scenes that may not be suitable for very young children. Ultimately, it's up to the parents' discretion to determine if their child is ready for the opera.


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