What to Expect
A first visit to the Met can be a transformative experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you get the most out of the unmatched onstage artistry—and the glamorous offstage scene.
Preparing for Your Visit
You don't need to do your homework to have an unforgettable time at the opera, but watching video clips can be a great way to get excited for an upcoming performance! Scroll through the individual production pages here on our site for helpful background information, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for insider tips, backstage happenings and upcoming events.
Food and Beverage
We invite you to dine at the Grand Tier Restaurant and enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco with your prix-fixe menu. Write code ‘First Time’ in the special request section of your reservation screen. The Grand Tier opens two hours before every performance and you can even choose to enjoy your dessert during intermission and we will hold your table for a truly seamless experience.
What to Wear
There is no dress code at the Met, but a night at the opera can be a great excuse to get dressed up. If you need inspiration, check out some of our favorite looks from Last Night at the Met, our curated fashion Instagram account.
MetTitles Translations
Every spot in the opera house is outfitted with a small seat-back screen featuring subtitles in multiple languages, making it simple to follow along with the onstage action, regardless of whether the performers are singing in Italian, French, German, Russian, or Czech.
MetTitles are available in English, Spanish, and German for all opera performances, and in Italian for all Italian-language operas.
Between Acts
Most operas have at least one intermission—use that time to grab a glass of champagne or a quick bite (view food and drink options) and explore the opera house. Visit the Grand Tier level to see Marc Chagall’s famous murals hanging on either side of the house, then take in the view of Lincoln Center Plaza from the balcony. And the Met Opera Shop, located in the north lobby, has recordings and gifts to help you commemorate your visit.
Share Your Experience
Come Back for More!
If you liked what you saw, take our opera finder quiz for follow-up suggestions and further operatic inspiration. Sign up for emails to receive special offers and be alerted of upcoming events. You’ll be a hardcore opera fan and repeat Met visitor before you know it!
