Real New Yorkers, passionate art lovers, and tourists in the know all have The Metropolitan Museum Of Art or (The Met) high on their list. That's because it's one of the premier museums in the world, and brilliantly organized by theme, so you can focus on the areas you're keen on.

Highlights include the European Paintings area with works from El Greco, Rembrandt, Raphael, van Gogh, and many *many* more. The Temple of Dendur, a full-sized Egyptian temple donated by Jackie Kennedy (with a view of it through the museum’s glass roof from her apartment) is a spectacular feature of the extensive Egyptian collection.

The Period Rooms are another must-see, with original (or lovingly recreated) examples of interior design throughout the ages. Including a *grand salon* of Louis XIV, an ancient Roman bedroom buried by the eruption of Vesuvius, fixtures from colonial American homes, and more.

The Egyptian Collection is another hit with all ages. Miniature statues, mummy cases, and even a temple to the goddess Isis.

These are, of course, just suggestions. Wander the collections at your own pace, soaking up the history and wonder.

**NOTE:** The Met's main location is Fifth avenue. The nearby (10-minute walk) Met Breuer focuses on art of the 20th and 21st centuries. The Met Cloisters is farther afield - in Washington Heights' Fort Tryon Park. It showcases medieval European art in religious buildings, transported here piece by piece from Europe.