Michael Turner
Quick recommendation: Drop bulky suitcases and large duffels at coat check near Fifth Avenue entrance before visiting galleries; carry a small daypack or purse into exhibit halls. Allow 15–30 minutes extra for drop-off during peak times and keep a photo ID to claim items.
Acceptable carry-ins usually include slim backpacks, camera bags, small tote bags and diaper bags; wheeled suitcases, large backpacks and trunks are directed to coat check. Staff may measure bags when needed; if unsure, aim for a longest dimension under 60–70 cm to reduce risk of refusal.
Coat check procedure: present ticket or confirmation at admissions, hand items to attendant, receive claim stub. Retrieval requires stub plus ID; lost-stub process varies by venue and can delay exit. Fees depend on item size and duration; verify current rules on official museum website or ask at information desk upon arrival.
Practical tips: Arrive 20–30 minutes earlier than planned, consolidate belongings into a single small bag, avoid bringing oversized tripods or commercial cases, and photograph claim stub immediately after check-in.
Baggage options at Metropolitan Museum of Art
Use coat-check at 1000 Fifth Avenue entrance for backpacks and small personal bags; call (212) 535-7710 before arrival to confirm acceptance rules for large suitcases.
On-site policy
Coat-check typically accepts coats, umbrellas, small backpacks and parcels; large rolling suitcases and trunk-sized items often refused. Expect staff to issue a claim ticket and to inspect bags. Allow an extra 20–30 minutes for drop-off or pick-up during peak times (weekends, special exhibitions).
Off-site solutions
When items exceed coat-check limits, prebook a commercial baggage service such as LuggageHero, Bounce, or Vertoe. Typical pricing starts at about $1 per hour or roughly $5 per day depending on provider and location. Choose options with insurance and nearby pickup points (within a 5–15 minute walk). Hotel concierge services and dedicated left-luggage facilities at major transit hubs are viable alternatives; always confirm hours and fees in advance. Label each piece, retain ID and booking confirmation, and avoid placing valuables in checked items.
Bag check location at New York’s main art museum
Use coat and bag check at Fifth Avenue entrance inside Great Hall next to admissions desk; checkroom runs during regular museum hours (typically 10:00–17:00 daily, with late hours until 21:00 on Fridays).
Exact drop-off point
- Address: 1000 Fifth Avenue at East 82nd Street, Manhattan.
- Primary checkroom: ground floor, just inside Fifth Avenue entrance at Great Hall, adjacent to admissions area.
- Occasional additional desks: special exhibition entrances or event lobbies during peak days; follow signage or ask floor staff.
Rules & practical tips
- Accepted items: coats, backpacks, suitcases, parcels, umbrellas; musical instruments and lighting equipment require staff approval.
- Items not allowed in galleries: large rolling suitcases, oversized packages, tripods; these must be checked before entry.
- Fees and timing: standard bag check is complimentary for most items; oversized or specialty handling may carry a small fee – confirm at drop-off.
- Procedure: present admission ticket at check-in, keep claim stub for retrieval; expect 5–20 minute wait during weekend afternoons and special-exhibit openings.
- Security: all checked items are screened by security; staff may request photo ID for retrieval of high-value items.
- Stroller advice: for tandem or double umbrella strollers, choose a compact model for easier gate-checking and gallery navigation – see best double umbrella stroller to buy.
- Fallback options: nearby paid bag-drop services and apps (examples: Bounce, Vertoe) offer short-term drop points within a few blocks for oversized gear or extended holds.
Allowed bag sizes and item restrictions at Metropolitan Museum of Art
Recommendation: Carry only small bags no larger than 16 x 16 x 8 inches (40 x 40 x 20 cm); any larger suitcase, rolling case, crate, or oversized backpack must be checked at coat check before entering galleries.
Items not permitted inside galleries: tripods, monopods, selfie-sticks, professional camera rigs without prior permit; large umbrellas (collapsed umbrellas acceptable), sports gear (skateboards, scooters), open food or beverage containers, alcohol, aerosol cans, weapons, and hazardous materials.
Soft-sided bags, tote bags, and camera cases count toward size limit; measure external dimensions including wheels, handles, and external pockets. Small diaper bags, compact camera bags, or purses that fit within 16 x 16 x 8 inches are typically allowed on person.
Prescription medication, small medical devices, and infant supplies are permitted; larger medical equipment or unusual items should be declared to security upon arrival to avoid delays or additional screening.
If checking items at coat check, remove passports, electronics, and cash before surrender; security may open and inspect checked items. Allow an extra 10–15 minutes for coat-check queues during peak hours.
Hours, typical wait times, and fee policy for bag check at NYC art museum
Arrive 30–45 minutes before timed-entry on weekend middays when planning to check a bag; weekday mornings and late afternoons typically allow 5–15 minute queue times.
Checkroom hours follow Museum hours: generally 10:00–17:30 Sunday–Thursday and 10:00–21:00 Friday–Saturday. Last intake for items is usually 30 minutes before gallery closing.
Typical wait times by period: weekday mornings 0–10 minutes; weekday afternoons 5–20 minutes; weekend peak 15–45 minutes. Expect longer waits during school vacation weeks, major special exhibitions, and holiday periods.
Fee policy: standard coat and small-bag check is free for accepted items. Very large suitcases, trunks, musical instruments in hard cases, and certain tripods or commercial gear may be refused or require alternative handling; claim ticket must be retained for retrieval. Staff recommend keeping cash, passports, jewelry, and high-value electronics on your person; Museum does not assume liability for valuables left inside checked items.
Practical tips: photograph contents and exterior of any item before handing it over; secure small items in zippered pouches; attach claim stub visibly and verify condition of zippers/locks with staff; retrieve checked items well before closing to avoid unexpected delays.
Nearby short-term baggage options around Metropolitan Museum of Art
Primary recommendation: book app-based drop-off networks (LuggageHero, Vertoe, Bounce) for holds within a 3–8 minute walk; expect $1–$3 per hour or $6–$12 per day with insurance typically $2,000–$3,000 per item.
Specific tips: reserve online same-day to lock price; present photo ID plus booking QR at partner shop; limit per-item dimension around 30–32 inches for large suitcases; keep fragile items and electronics on person; peak visitation window 10:30–16:00 may reduce nearby availability; partner hours commonly 09:00–19:00, some open until 21:00.
Quick picks within walking distance
| Provider | Approx walk | Typical price | Size limit | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LuggageHero | 3–7 mins (5th Ave & 83–86 St corridor) | $1/hr; daily cap $8–$12 | Up to ~32 in | $2,500 per item |
| Vertoe | 5–10 mins (partner shops around 82–85 St) | $5.90–$9.90/day | Standard suitcase sizes | $2,500–$3,000 |
| Bounce | 3–8 mins (5th Ave area) | $6/day or promotional hourly rates | Carry-on to large checked | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Hotel concierge (public service varies) | Varies; nearest hotels on 5th Ave | $5–$15 per item | Most sizes accepted | Liability varies; request written policy |
Drop-off protocol and risk reduction
Inspect partner receipt for item ID number; photograph bag and tag before leaving; avoid storing passports, large sums of cash, or irreplaceable jewelry; confirm pickup window and emergency contact via app; if pickup will be delayed, notify provider to extend hold or arrange alternative retrieval.
For quick souvenir browsing after drop-off, check nearby gift kiosks and museum-area shops; for a lighthearted art-themed find see best friends under an umbrella drawings.
How to plan your visit with bags: arrival timing and security screening
Arrive 60–90 minutes before timed-entry to allow 20–45 minutes for security screening and any bag-check procedures.
Timing benchmarks
Weekday mornings (opening hour–11:00) typically shortest waits; Friday evenings, weekends and holiday afternoons often longest, with lines peaking 11:00–15:00. Major exhibitions, school tours, and special events can add 30–60 minutes to entry time; check museum calendar and ticket email for alerts before departure.
Screening preparation
Expect walk-through metal detector, handheld wanding, and visual inspection of personal items. For faster processing: place electronics (tablets, laptops) in outer bag pocket; empty pockets and remove belts or metal accessories; keep bottled water capped or consume prior to arrival; avoid bulky outerwear or replace with compact layers stored under arm. If carrying professional gear (tripod, large case, demonstration apparatus), declare at arrival point and arrive 90+ minutes early.
Large groups should assign one person to manage tickets and IDs, stagger arrivals by 10–15 minutes, and reserve extra time for school or tour check-in. Members and advance-ticket holders may use dedicated entry lanes; still allow a 20–30 minute buffer for screening on busy days.
If planning to bring car-detailing or cleaning equipment for a private demo near museum grounds, verify acceptance rules for electrical tools and aerosols; for compact model ideas consult best pressure washer for car cleaning and detailing. Any prohibited item will require removal from site or alternative transport options.
Final checklist before arrival: printed or mobile ticket ready, IDs accessible, small carry item only when possible, cords and batteries easily reachable, clear pouch for medical supplies, and plan extra 15–30 minutes for unanticipated checks.
