Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), New York City

Address 1000 Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street, New York, New York 10028-0198 Map, Tel 212-535-7710 Call, Hours Closed Monday; T-Th 9:30am-5:30pm; Fri-Sat 9:30am-9pm; Sun 9:30am-5:30pm, Cost $20 suggested donation for adults Website

The metropolitan museum is surprisingly fun for kids. You can't see the entire museum anyway, so we recommend that you choose a few areas that your kids are most likely to enjoy. Popular choices include Degas' ballerinas, the Egyptian exhibits (complete with a temple rescued from Aswan before it was flooded to make the Aswan dam), the costume institute, and the period rooms.

Try to visit early in the day and on weekdays to avoid crowds. There is a serviceable cafeteria in the basement and a lovely espresso stand on the rooftop during the summer

Tip: Back carriers are available at coat-check areas at 81st Street and 82nd Street entrances. Strollers are permitted in most areas, but oversized and jogging strollers are not allowed. You will be required to check backpacks, umbrellas, and large packages