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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

Musica Viva Performs Choral Music From The Baltic States

New York City's leading chamber choir, Musica Viva NY, will present CURSE UPON IRON, a one-night only concert at Manhattan's All Souls NYC in March. Learn more here!

South Florida Symphony Orchestra Announces Valentine's Day Weekend Concerts

Celebrate love in all its dramatic, poetic, erotic, scandalous and insatiable forms as South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) will present an adventurous Valentine’s Day weekend program featuring three orchestra premieres, headlined by the return of R. Strauss’ Don Juan.  

Joffrey Concert Group To Present IN MY ART In February

The Joffrey Concert Group will appear February 14 & 15  (3 performances) at the Ailey Citigroup Theater in a program of new works by Company Artistic Director Bradley Shelver, and Ms. Tsai Hsi Hung and Mr. Thang Dao.

John Tartaglia, Marcia Milgrom Dodge, Rob Ruggiero & More Join The Muny 107th Season

The Muny has revealed the teams of directors, choreographers, music directors and lead designers whose creative visions will bring the theatre’s bold 2025 season to life. Learn more about the upcoming season!

Voices Of The Valiant To Present WONDROUS LOVE at St. John's in the Village

oices of the Valiant will present Wondrous Love - a concert featuring soprano Susan Wheeler, mezzo-sopranos Madison Marie McIntosh and Vita Koreneva, and pianist Yannis Xylas. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.

LOVE, HANDEL Comes to The Handel and Haydn Society

The Handel and Haydn Society will welcome acclaimed soprano Joélle Harvey to join the H+H Orchestra under the direction of Artistic Director Jonathan Cohen to present 'Love, Handel.'

Kelli O'Hara Sets Steppenwolf Concerts for April

Fresh off her critically acclaimed and Tony-nominated run in Broadway’s Days of Wine and Roses, Steppenwolf Theatre Company will present Tony Award winner and musical theatre icon Kelli O’Hara with Music Director Dan Lipton.

A DIVINE NIGHT IN DELAWARE To Be Presented At The Grand Opera House

OperaDelaware, First State Ballet Theatre, and The Grand join with the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Delaware to announce the return of A Divine Night in Delaware.

Houston Grand Opera Reveals 2025 Concert of Arias Finalists

Houston Grand Opera has announced the seven finalists for this year's Concert of Arias, the 37th Annual Eleanor McCollum Competition for Young Singers, to be presented at the Wortham Theater Center this month.

George And Nora London Foundation Competition For Opera Singers Returns In February

The George and Nora London Foundation Competition for American and Canadian opera singers, one of the opera world's oldest and most prestigious competitions, will hold its 53rd event in 2025, with a public final round at New York's Morgan Library and Museum on Friday, February 21, at 4:00 pm.

Lyric Opera To Present Sondra Radvanovsky THE PUCCINI HEROINES In February

Lyric Opera of Chicago will present Sondra Radvanovsky in Sondra Radvanovsky in Concert: The Puccini Heroines, for three performances only, February 8–16, 2025.

Jonathon Heyward To Continue As Music Director Of The Festival Orchestra Of Lincoln Center Through 2029

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts has announced an extension for Renée and Robert Belfer Music Director Jonathon Heyward’s contract with the Festival Orchestra of Lincoln Center through the 2029 season.

Gracie Lawrence & Emily Bergl Join Jonathan Groff in JUST IN TIME

JUST IN TIME, starring Tony Award winner Jonathan Groff as Bobby Darin, has found its supporting cast. Find out who will join the Tony winner in the new production along with additions to the show's design team

Opera Parallele Will Celebrate 15th Anniversary and Jake Heggie

Opera Parallèle has announced the details about the company's upcoming benefit evening, In Pursuit of a Dream: A 15th Anniversary Celebration Honoring Composer Jake Heggie.

Jeanine Tesori's GROUNDED Sets GREAT PERFORMANCES AT THE MET Airing

PBS has set the premiere of Jeanine Tesori’s powerful new opera Grounded as part of their Great Performances at the Met series. Based on librettist George Brant’s acclaimed play and featuring mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo, Grounded will air Friday, March 21, at 9 p.m. ET on PBS.


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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