News on your favorite shows, specials & more!

Metropolitan Opera

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Metropolitan Opera Logo

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.

More in West Side


More Attractions

Metropolitan Opera News

AMERICAN PUPPET THEATER TODAY: The Photography of Richard Termine is Coming to The Ballard Institute

The Jim Henson Foundation and the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry at the University of Connecticut will present a new exhibition, American Puppet Theater Today: The Photography of Richard Termine. Learn how to purchase tickets.

Lyric Opera Of Kansas City Welcomes New Chief Development Officer Ashley Parks

Lyric Opera of Kansas City General Director and CEO Deborah Sandler Kemper has announced a new appointment to the company's senior staff. Ashley Parks started her new position as Chief Development Officer on Jan. 3, 2025.

BOTH EYES OPEN, A Hybrid Opera Theater Production, to Play Zellerbach Playhouse in February

New Performance Traditions will present a new production of Both Eyes Open, an experimental electroacoustic opera by Brooklyn-based composer Max Giteck Duykers and Berkeley-based librettist and playwright Philip Kan Gotanda.

Madison Opera Presents MARÍA DE BUENOS AIRES

Madison Opera livens up winter with its first production of María de Buenos Aires, a tango opera by the  legendary Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla. A dark, surreal story told through song, poetry, and dance, María de  Buenos Aires will have performances on January 31 at 7:30pm and February 2 at 2:30pm in the Capitol Theater.  

Wake Up With BroadwayWorld January 3, 2025

Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is January 3, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.

Review Roundup: AIDA Directed by Michael Mayer at the Metropolitan Opera

After being postponed due to the pandemic in the 2020-21 season, The Met's new production of the opera Aida finally opened as part of the 2024/2025 season with a completely new staging, directed by Michael Mayer. Read the reviews here!

Ann Kittredge Joins Judy Kaye, Christine Andreas, Walter Willison, and Adrienne Angel in HIGH SPIRITS at 54 Below

The full cast has been announced for 54 Below's High Spirits: The 60th Anniversary Concert of an Improbable Musical Comedy. Learn more about the upcoming performance here!

East Passyunk Opera Company To Team Up with Society Hill Dance Academy for LOVE NOTES 4: PHILLY

East Passyunk Opera Project will reunite with Society Hill Dance Academy and Top Dog Cocktails to present Love Notes 4 Philly, the fourth and final concert experience in its beloved Love Notes series that started in 2021. Learn how to attend.

Feature: Norm Lewis Wrapped Up the Holiday Season with 7 Sold-Out Shows at 54

What happened over the seven consecutive shows, was indeed a Christmas miracle. There was plenty of laughter and tears, and intimate interaction with the audiences. It is simply the “must-see” holiday event of the season.

EGC Productions Inc. And Legato Arts Present JOURNEY OF FAITH: A Musical Tribute To Mother Teresa

ECG Productions Inc. and Legato Arts will present Journey of Faith: A Musical Tribute to Mother Teresa on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 8pm at the Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall.

CENDRILLON [CINDERELLA] Announced At Steinmetz Hall

Fairy tales come to life as Cendrillon [Cinderella] takes the stage of Steinmetz Hall with Grammy award-winner Lindsay Ohse in the title role. Performances run February 7 and 9.

Roundabout Theatre Will Celebrate John Kander at Benefit Hosted By Alan Cumming

Roundabout Theatre Company has announced a special one-night event Ring Them Bells: A Birthday Celebration for John Kander, hosted by Alan Cumming. Learn more here!

Susan Stroman Announced As The New President Of Guild Hall Academy Of The Arts 

Guild Hall has announced that award-winning director and choreographer Susan Stroman will assume the role of President of the Guild Hall Academy of the Arts, with standing president, artist Eric Fischl, stepping down after a long and impactful tenure. 

Orchestra Of The Age Of Enlightenment and Julia Bullock Come to 92NY

The 92nd Street Y, New York will present  the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment & Julia Bullock, soprano performing The Golden Age of the Baroque.

Twelve Days of Christmas: Kelli O'Hara & Matthew Morrison

The holidays are upon us and BroadwayWorld is continuing our favorite annual tradition of celebrating the holiday season with a Twelve Days of Christmas countdown. Day 8 features Kelli O'Hara, Matthew Morrison and Bartlett Sher.


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.


Videos