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The Cloisters
Category: Arts & Entertainment Museums Museums [Edit]
Fort Tryon Park99 Margaret Corbin Dr
New York, NY 10040
Neighborhood: Washington Heights
(212) 923-3700
- Nearest Transit:
-
Dyckman St (A)
190 St (A)
Dyckman St (1)
- Hours:
Tue-Sun 9:30 am - 5 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
213 reviews for The Cloisters
Review Highlights
"My favorites were the unicorn tapestries -- so amazing."
(in 31 reviews)
"Also nearby is a cafe and a view of the Hudson River."
(in 25 reviews)
"It's like a little mini Medieval home."
(in 95 reviews)
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213 reviews in English
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Review from Doreen L.
1/7/2012
Strolling through Fort Tryon Park primes you for beautiful architecture and greenery that consists of The Cloisters. Gifted to the Met by Rockefeller in 1925, The Cloisters is haven of medieval European art and architecture.
When you arrive, you are transported to magical place: filled with exquisite stained glass, awe inspiring arches, and gardens that awash the excursionist with serenity. I enjoy that this satellite site of the Met that is devoid of the larger crowds that fill the more renowned main site.
The Cloisters, you have much to teach me. And I am your ever patient student.Listed in: Where is Fort Washington?
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Review from Jon H.
Bronx, NY
1/8/2012
Ah, the Cloisters!
It's been awhile but I went to the Medieval Festival about ten years ago on a date and wound up moving to Riverdale, The Bronx as a result - long story.
Anyway, it was a fun afternoon and you felt as if you were thrown back 500 years or more to a time when jousting was sport and women were disrespectfully called "wenches" (did I spell that right - I don't have spell check).
I was entertained but wondered if some of the actors who volunteered to play these characters in costume were not a bit odd and overly-consumed by their alter egos. Just my observation....
It was a nice afternoon and I'd recommend it!
Also, the museum is first rate and, I believe, open all year! There is a cafe where you can stop in and have a nice brunch. -
Review from Yuliya L.
Brooklyn, NY
12/16/2011
I'm conflicted about reviewing this place because part of its magic is that it remains New York's hidden treasure and I don't want to see it become mobbed with crowds of tourists. It offers an impressive and varied collection of medieval works of art and architecture in a serene setting of beautiful gardens, peaceful courtyards and open terraces with sweeping views of the Hudson. You really do feel transported into some other place and time and come away both intellectually and emotionally re-charged.
Tip: There's a free daily walk tour at 3 PM. -
Review from Nick A.
Manhattan, NY
2/8/2012
You can find me here any given Saturday or Sunday just hanging out and enjoying the environment or marveling downstairs over how glass artifacts can still be intact after hundreds or years. I've seen almost everything there is to be seen here, but I still go back because there is infinite draw to this museum whether it be the surrounding park, the people-watching, the respectful and cultured tourists with their well-behaved children, the panoramic views of the Hudson and so on and so on and so on...It is also a suggested donation of $20 but there is no pressure and that is up to you and your wallet. Medieval relics, archways and architecture, peace and quiet and fresh air....It's like a mini vacation before you have to descend back downtown into the neon-light, buzzing, panhandling clusterf--- many of us call home. Bring a book or just your general intrigue and you will not be disappointed..
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Review from Saira K.
1/29/2012
One of the City's most romantic places. I love the Cloisters and the tapestries. Unicorns and maidens and knights.
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Review from Sandee L.
12/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
For all you medieval era/architecture lovers out there, this is *the* museum to go to. I love how a lot of the art is incorporated into the building itself. The detail in everything from the actual museum walls and ceilings to the intricacies of the tapestries and other artifacts are awe inspiring.
I was a little put off by the girl at the admissions desk, thus a 4 star rating versus a 5 star. I felt like she pretty much pushed the entire $25 donation (which is the recommended donation, key words: recommended AND donation). This is actually what we would have given, regardless, but it really puts people on the spot and one may feel a tad bit cheap and/or embarrassed if wishing to donate a lesser amount.
You can also visit the MET the same day with your button. They offer a student discount of $12 and Columbia students are free with ID!Listed in: Things to do...besides eat!
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Review from Lisa C.
Queens, NY
1/25/2012
The first time I came here was for a school assignment several years ago and I really liked it - the architecture, the details in the tapestries, the assortment of cool artifacts... I revisited again today and it's just as beautiful as I remembered.
They have a great collection of ivory chess pieces on loan for the rest of this month and next month, so if you're a big chess fan (and even if you're not), I suggest you check it out. They don't look like the regular chess pieces that you play with today... they are miniature carvings of kings, queens, berserkers, knights on a horse...
Only got to tour the medieval stories/legends related things in the 1.5 hours I was there... but there is still plenty to see so I intend to take a trip back (perhaps in the Spring). My favorite thing about the art here) is that most of the works of art tell a story.. you just have to find it in the details... (e.g. a column in one of the cloisters tells the story of David and the Lions, a collection of tapestries depict the capture of a unicorn). -
Review from Andrea S.
11/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
Whenever I stroll around this museum, I feel as though I can hear Gregorian chanting from around the corner. If I turn quickly enough I'll see Benedictine monks trailing their robes on the cold grey stones. Perhaps lords and ladies are dining on pheasant and mead in an adjacent hall.
It's a blessing and a shame that this museum is never busy. You have plenty of space, peace and quiet to observe the Unicorn Tapestries, the gardens or the 13th century sacred works.
If you arrive later in the day, you can get a discounted rate. But don't come too late in the day, you need at least two hours to appreciate the whole museum. -
Review from Katt M.
Manhattan, NY
1/8/2012
Unbelievably lovely.
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Review from Susan A.
Updated - 10/26/2011
Finally made it back on a non-cloudy day!
Saw more, enjoyed it more. The Cloisters is a really beautiful spot, the walk up from the park is nice as is the architecture itself. The Gardens were really lovely and I never thought of myself as a horticulture type of gal, but I really enjoyed seeing the way the herbs, trees, etc were laid out and grown. The trees were splayed out along metal poles for a branching, 1D feel.
Note to self: Definitely do not take the bus. While the sights may be aplenty, the trip is oh so very long. Even from midtown with a straight shoot up. Ended up switching on two trains (took A train up) and it was zoom zoom and away! (Not really, given it was the weekend, but it was not as long as I imagined it would take.)
Great place through and through.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/12/2009
It's awesome, but DO NOT go on a cloudy/rainy day. Although, it does give me a better appreciation… Read more »
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Review from Christa K.
New York, NY
9/15/2011
I finally found a place that doesn't feel like I'm in the crowded, loud, dirty NYC. It's so easy to get to and the area was almost free of tourists. The park. is so peacful and pretty. It's full of flowers and empty of bikes, strollers, and the crowds that you find in central park. It's lovely. I feel like it's the perfect place to picnic or take a book and relax on one of the many benches.
The building is historic and the art is nice. I took part in a garden tour which I found very interesting and I'm not even a big art fan. The cafe is rather expensive but I guess the fact that admission is so cheap helps off set the cost of a trip there. -
Review from Simone B.
New York, NY
This place is amazing. Filled with medieval art , the Cloister provides a great get away from manhattans hustle and bustle. It's not too far from the A train and it's right in the middle of Fort Tyron Park.
I'm not a major art buff but I definitely enjoyed the craftsmanship of many of the pieces and the tapestries were gorgeous. There were a lot of biblical works of art which I found very interesting. Also the structure of the building itself was beautiful.
This is a great place to come on a date or even role solo. The outdoor courtyard has a beautiful garden and provides an amazing view of the "castle". The courtyard is a great spot to chill, take in the sun and people watch. -
Review from Kurdy S.
6/13/2011 14 photos
As Fall leaves scattered about like a school of fish and ice cold winds wooshed in all directions as if the gods were warning us of something dangerous up ahead, it truly felt like an eternal walk to some adventurous Medieval setting where knights battled one another and fire breathing dragons were not myths but evil pets trained to scare away rescuers of helpless princesses.
For reals, that's what it felt like until I had to check-in my winter coat down in the dungeons. There was this stairway that led us to a dark and ominous room where there was a man who took our coat and in exchange, we received a little tag that was used later for the retrieval of our coats.
Prior to entering this secret, tucked away museum that was far beyond the reaches of Manhattan proper, I really was not sure what to expect. I suppose being surprised is sometimes a good thing. Interestingly, it was.
If you are an art or museum buff, you will most likely enjoy it. There were a good handful of chambers that portrayed certain subjects of interest. In the center of the museum was this little garden with no restriction to the atmosphere. I visited during the Fall, so I had no interest in stepping into it but it was still enjoyable to gaze from within the boundaries of the museum.
One particular chamber had these nice looking arches. Near the front entrance, was this massive room with Jesus floating (with invisible strings) near the top back creating a 3-D effect (as I like to call it). It was uber cool.
Every art subject, object, piece, and sculpture was purely Medieval. A couple of pieces I adored very much were these giant tapestries and this wooden sculpture of a women in a robe. What made it appealing to me was seeing how an artist can manipulate wood to create a realistic image of what a cloth would look like.
I must say, when it was lunch time, we had VIP access to the cafeteria. The benefits of having friends who work for the MET. It was just a matter of flashing a badge and we were in! After we got our food, we sat in the employee lunch room which was super cool because it felt like we were dining in King Arthur's crib. The table and chairs were in character and of course the walls were already built like a castle.
After we finished our self-guided art tour that lasted approximately two hours, we went to get our coats and waited for our bus that took us back into the city. I would not expect this museum to ever fill up.
Overall, the scenic forestry and calm surroundings of the museum made it a refreshing visit away from the usual museum-esque places like MoMA and the likes. The trees, pathway, and waterway leading up to the site was actually quite breathtaking. You can seriously get some great nature shots here! One staff member even said it's New York's best kept secret. -
Review from Eva Z.
Manhattan, NY
9/15/2011
A must see while on a longer trip to NYC or simply perfect for a weekend afternoon. Suggested admission means it's next to free.
Fabulous gardens, surrounded by arched facades and beautifully tiled hallways. There is so much history here offered through worldly art collections. It is serene and beautiful. Grab lunch in one of the gardens at the cafe. -
Review from Joan R.
7/4/2011 6 photos
I believe someone in a previous review commented on how strenuous and demanding the walk to The Cloisters is from the 190st subway station and through Fort Tyron Park. My bf and I made the trek on a hot summer day and it was a pleasant and beautiful walk free of excessive perspiration and no one had difficulty breathing. However we are young 20-somethings in relatively good health.
Located amidst the Fort Tyron Park, the Cloisters feels removed from new york city. You really feel like you stumbled into another time. The Cloisters is a beautiful museum featuring relics from the Medieval period. The building itself is striking and gorgeous. Bring a camera because there are plenty of opportunities to take great pictures (especially in their beautiful courtyards and gardens). The art is truly great and exquisite. I'm not a fan of Medieval art, it's to austere and dark for me (they also go fricken crazy for Jesus!!) but it's nice to look at.
It's suggested admission, I paid fifty cents for my ticket.
Drinks and food are pricey, my bf paid $2.50 for a bottle of minute maid. Bring water bottles and a snack just in case.
It's kid friendly. There was a ton of children prowling the garden when we were there.
The garden and the courtyards are fantastic. Try going during nice weather. -
Review from Anna V.
It was a pretty cool visit, mostly because we did not have to give the full $25 suggested donation, and only gave $5. The museum itself has this very old feel, cold stones, high ceilings, religious artifacts and misty smell as if you were forever in the fog, just without the actual fog. The terraces have beautiful views overlookign the Hudson and the GWB...the fall foliage, the reds, burgundy, orange and yellows was breathtaking. I would also highly recommend to take a walk around Fort Tryon Park!
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Review from Loretta b.
San Jose, CA
10/31/2011
I just sent to the Cloisters last weekend and it was great!
Take the A train up to 190th St. Please be sure that you get on one of the A trains that actually goes up that far by checking the sign that indicates the last stop, which is on the train itself. I wasn't paying attention and ended up on an A train that didn't go up quite that far to 190th St. so I had to get off and wait for another A train.
In any case, once you walk out of the subway station, the M4 bus stop is right there on the corner. (The sign is hidden by some trees so just look for the garbage/recycling cans on the corner across from the children's playground.)
The bus ride is about 5 minutes and it lets you off right at the entrance to the Cloisters.
The people working at the front door and the coat check were friendly. They do require you to check anything larger than a purse. Because part of the the Cloisters is outdoors, you might want to hang on to your coat/scarf if you want to see this part of the museum during the winter/cold weather.
The admission fee is "suggested" to be $25. Everyone has to stop at the admission desk in order to get a pass so the workers ask, "How much do you want to donate today?" It's a little awkward, and if you're not used to haggling or feel uncomfortable talking about money in public, this can be a little uncomfortable. (This is frankly the biggest reason for not giving 5 stars.)
The brochure that you get at the admission desk is a solid guide toward the rooms and the highlights within each room. There is an audio tour available, but I did not try that.
The tapestries are of course a highlight. However, one of the most interesting things to me was downstairs in the Treasures room where there is an enclosure with a deck of playing cards (!) that are actual playing cards and not tarot cards. They were fascinating :)
Because the items in each room are not spaced out so well, there is plenty of room to linger at each item, nobody is crowding you to see each item, and it's generally a very pleasant museum experience.
This is a great place to visit for those who truly enjoy medieval art and culture! This is not the Met with tons and tons of well known pieces; this is a solid museum representing a variety of a particular type of art. The indoor/outdoor environment and the smaller size make it accessible, interesting and truly engaging and thought-provoking,.
Other notes: The bathrooms are kind of out of the way and not easily accessible so try to go before start going through the museum. The M4 bus will take you right back around to the subway station in about 5 minutes and is well worth the ride if you want to get off your feet for a few minutes or get out of the heat/cold.
Enjoy!! -
Review from Eric G.
Manhattan, NY
The world is your oyster after a visit to The Cloisters. Walk from the Main Hall to the Romanesque Hall and hang a right to enter The Fuentidueña Chapel. Once inside, gaze in wonder at the surrounding beauty and learn about the restoration process of the 12th century hanging crucifix before you. If you arrive early, you may catch the morning light beaming through the windows on the upper sides of the apse, which makes for stunning and dramatic photographs. For the brave of heart willing to trek it uptown to Fort Tyron Park, you will not be disappointed. Just like in medieval times, fortune favors the bold.
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Review from Melissa R.
Manhattan, NY
11/15/2011
Beautiful museum! I loved looking at all the different art and tapestries. The staff is very friendly. I would suggest going in the fall and walking around Fort Tryon. The beautiful fall leaves are breathtaking.
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Review from Viktoriya L.
Morris Plains, NJ
10/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a gorgeous garden. I just found out I was pregnant and the weather was nice. This garden put me in a peaceful mood and has that certain dreamy quality to it. I wish people did not smoke in or around it though. I went there after going to the Met and I think the price is worth it that way. Plus, it was on the way back from the Met to Jersey so it worked out. Otherwise, it's a bit pricey for a day trip unless you are an enthusiast. The views are stunning and you can do plenty of walking.
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Review from Alena B.
10/15/2011
This is my mother and my's favorite place in the City and that's saying a lot because we pretty much love everything about NYC. When you visit the Cloisters you just feel like you are in another world. The gardens are amazing all year long and there are cafes to eat. The art and ambiance cannot be beat. It's easily (and safely) accessible by the subway and worth the trip! PLEASE go here and support the Cloisters!
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Review from a k.
Clifton, NJ
6/12/2011
Very unique museums. It has a large medieval collections. Lots religious pieces from the era. It is part of the MET so pricing is 'suggested', you
can pay $1 and go in.
It is a walk from subway, best is to take M4 bus which drops you right in front of museum. -
Review from Dan Q.
1/16/2011
I'm going to completely go on subjective opinion on this review. I am not an art connosieur (I can throw down on food), so yea.. here we go.
[entrance]
The stairway looks pretty cool
[inside]
I'm used to more of a varied museum, so I got bored really quickly A rug here, a statue there, a painting there.
[garden]
Closed during the winter.
I've been backpacking through Europe so I have high expectations of museums. I am sure I am glossing over the historical significance of everything inside, so I'm sure others would appreciate this more. -
Review from Emma A.
10/14/2011
Best museum in Manhattan. Hop off the subway and suddenly you're in the serene, EMPTY Fort Tryon Park. Walk through the beautiful gardens (and appreciate them, because I guarantee you will get lost in them) and spend forever in the museum. I highly recommend the audio-guide, it has some amazing gems on it. Go in the summertime or autumn, when you can experience the beauty of the gardens - not much point in going to the Cloisters if the cloisters are not even open!
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Review from Kelly M.
Closter, NJ
10/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
I loved it! Beautiful place perfect for walking and exploring! Your suggested admission also covers same day admission to the metropolitan museum of art. Skip the cafe which is pricey and not very good.
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Review from Cat L.
1/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Set aside the incredible collection of medieval artifacts and let's talk about the FREE PARKING.
Yes, there is FREE and EASY parking in Manhattan. If you thought that's as likely as finding a unicorn, THEY HAVE THOSE TOO!
I love that the museum was purpose-built around their architectural artifacts, so instead of just looking at a column or arch standing free in a room you see it in action. It's all designed to give you a sense of how th pieces would have functioned in their original contexts. -
Review from Velina L.
1/31/2011
Yes, it may seem a little out of the way but it's very easy to get to, and absolutely worth the subway ride. Start with a walk through the Fort Tyron Park with a view of the Hudson River - it's extremely peaceful, kind of romantic, and definitely feels like you're not in New York City anymore. There's something a little magical about walking through the snow-covered park and I'd love to go back in each of the other seasons, as I'm sure it's beautiful.
The museum itself is made of parts of churches from France and Spain. The cloisters are beautiful, as are the stained glass windows, and I especially loved the treasury room downstairs, filled with impossibly delicate and intricate artifacts. -
Review from Iris B.
1/28/2011
The Cloisters is a place I had heard about but never knew what to expect. I heard it was a museum with a botanical garden there but I didn't expect what I saw. It's both those and more. It's in a very picturesque part of town in Fort Tyron Park in Uptown Manhattan along the Hudson River and both sides of land, on NJ and NY, were protected so not to spoil the view which is quite lovely... you even have a great view of the GW Bridge.
You always hear people say they never go above 100th St (I believe the boundary is somewhere there abouts) but that's a hoax. This is worth the trip up. The museum has some really wonderful artwork and history in it from large stained glass windows to statues and tapestries and is known as the only museum in America dedicated solely to showcasing medieval art.
The gardens are well kept and have a wide arrayment of species. $20 gets you in and once you buy the pass you can visit the MET the same day if you wish with the same ticket.
In Fort Tyron itself there are lots of people basking in the sun having picnics, sunbathing, joggers, hikers, artists painting, people strumming their guitars, a very nice dog park, and areas for group yoga meetings. I frequented the dog park a number of times and met some very interesting and friendly folks there.
This is a very peaceful little secret of NY's. Wonderful place. Take the A train to 190th street and enjoy the view! -
Review from S M.
New York, NY
5/2/2011
How I wish it were warm year-round so I could come here more than just 4 months of the year! This place is mostly outdoors and has an amazing array of medival art, tapestries and gardens. It transforms me into a different world and I instantly feel more relaxed.
I would recommend doing the tour if you want to learn. Forgo the foodstand there if you can. Bring a camera. -
Review from Lili K.
2/21/2011
It's quite a hike to go up to the end of the A train, but it's well worth it. The park that surrounds this place is absolutely breathtaking!! This museum is suggested donation, and it's several stories up, with a garden outside as well.
Check out the greenery, the ruins, the statues and architecture. Interesting place, but I never was that big of a fan for the medieval times. Unique things to read and view, but I was more awestruck by the park right by it.
There's a direct bus to take you to the subway, or all the way to Penn Station if you need-now that's convenient!Listed in: free spots
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Review from Mr F G and Ms M S.
Flushing, NY
10/25/2010 20 photos
This is our favorite museum in NYC!
The place is absolutely beautiful. Once you're there, you feel like you're in a different world. We love everything about this museum. Everything from the art, the architecture, the garden,...
If you choose to drive, it is quite easy to find parking inside the Fort Tryon park. We had a great time here. Even though the place wasn't that big, we still ended up staying here for hours... till they closed...
If you love medieval arts, this place is a must to visit. Well, even if you're not that into medieval stuff, this place is worth visiting. It is so beautiful! -
Review from Jesse S.
New York, NY
its really beautiful to walk around but its the same price as the Met to get inside. that aint right.
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Review from Jenn C.
8/31/2010
Oh, the Cloisters. You had me at the M4 dropping me off at your front door. Couldn't be easier to get to if I tried. The busride through upper Manhattan was enjoyable and interesting, as I'd never made it past 92nd St before. It takes about an hour from the UES. To get there: $2.25 or unlimited metrocard.
The suggested donation is $20. However, my budget is quite limited, so I gave $5 and was welcomed with a huzzah! Well, maybe not that enthusiastic, but was given a pin anyway.
I took a Garden tour (free), and the docent was knowledgable and obviously passionate about the gardens there and medieval gardens in general. Was quite a hot day but she structured it so we were mainly standing in the shade, which was nice.
I'm a photography buff with a DSLR so I went nuts. Since I don't use flash, I was A-ok to take snaps of anything I wanted. There's so much to see here - make sure you get downstairs as well as the main display area and the Unicorn Tapestries.
The cafe is nothing to write home about, but they did have some fresh sandwiches and salads which were on the pricey side ($12 I believe). And since it's a Met museum, you can go to the Met on the same day and get in for free!
I would budget maybe 4 hours for this museum to catch the major items and a leisurely stroll around the gardens and terraces. If you're totally into medieval things, be sure to head downstairs to see the other collections of religious metalworking.
I really enjoyed my day here. The sights on the way back (Tom's Diner, Spoonbread Cafe) are worth the trip, too! -
Review from Line B.
11/27/2010
I like the Cloisters and I think it is great that small pieces of European Medieval treasures have been assembled in New York.
My favorite parts of the Cloisters are the Unicorn Tapestries and the Garden they have outside because of the knowledge you gain from knowing about the plants and their medieval value. And you can not beat the price for getting in which is a suggested $20 dollars which means that you can pay what you can afford.
What I do not like is that if I was truly interested in medieval history and religiosity then I would travel Europe and not go to the Cloisters. And to make it clear I have been to several cloisters, churches and monasteries throughout Europe and there is so much more history to get. -
Review from Kate F.
8/26/2011
So beautiful! We hiked up here from the train, and it was well worth the trip! The building itself is just as beautiful as the art in it! And to say it, the admission is suggested, so dont feel like you have to shell out 20 bucks to see it (especially when it took just less than a hour to go through).
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Review from Brad P.
8/1/2010
I went here on a really beautiful day and the visit was very enjoyable. The Cloisters is basically a visual Gregorian chant from start to finish. All around, it is a cool building with an interesting array of religious artifacts and artwork.
Let's cut the crap - The best thing here is the downstairs room with the really valuable stuff. You can see things like a totally badass Pope staff, finely carved totems, and a brass/metal Pope-hand(which was probably used to smack down the unfaithful or something when the Pope's real hand was sore). It is a really cool area with some of the most intricately carved items I've ever seen.
Go for the ambience, stay to see the metal Pope-hand. -
Review from Michael W.
New York, NY
10/29/2010
Visiting the Cloisters on a beautiful weekend afternoon is one of the best ways you can spend a day in the city (I'm assuming you sleep through the morning, of course).
Waaaaaaaaay up north on Manhattan island, it feels separated from the rest of the city... a quiet sanctuary of sorts filled with medival tapestries, columns, and cloisters (duh!). The interesting mix of medieval artifacts keeps you on your toes by switching up their origin, purpose, and aesthetic detail. Even the plants in one of the courtyards serves as essentially a Medieval "herb garden".
5 stars for a having a lawn to nap on out in front
Revisit? Yup! -
Review from ViviMar Luz C.
Manhattan, NY
4/9/2011
Today was my first time here and the weather was perfect. It is beautiful and peaceful so different from the city. I must come back during summer and fall to hopefully catch the sunset. Perfect place for a date...there is a lot of walking involved so no high heels.
This is such a romantic location and I can see why couples get married here... -
Review from Thy R.
8/21/2010
I appreciate ANYTHING medieval and this place is just WOW.
It feels like you are not in NYC. It's so quiet.
One of my personal fave to visit in NYC. -
Review from B K.
Broomfield, CO
4/3/2011
Is Cloistering habit-forming? (a haiku review) ; )
Robber barons' weave
dark ages' icons, embroidered
with fecundity.
