Both The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History are world-class museums offering unique experiences. The Met is ideal for art enthusiasts, while the Smithsonian is perfect for those interested in natural history. The Smithsonian's free admission makes it more accessible, but The Met's 'pay what you wish' policy provides some flexibility.
| Attribute | The Metropolitan Museum of Art | The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History |
|---|---|---|
| Name | The Metropolitan Museum of Art | The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History |
| Collection Size | Over 1.5 million works of art in its permanent collection (over 2 million in 2000) | Over 148 million objects and specimens, including 30 million insects, 4.5 million plants, and 7 million fish. |
| Exhibition Variety | Presents over 30 exhibitions each year, showcasing a wide range of artists, eras, and cultures. 17 curatorial departments. | Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals (featuring the Hope Diamond), Hall of Human Origins, Sant Ocean Hall, Insect Zoo, Hall of Mammals, David H. Koch Hall of Fossils - Deep Time, and temporary exhibits. |
| Historical Significance | Founded in 1870 to create a national institution to inspire and educate the public and address America's need for art appreciation. | Opened in 1910, designed to house national collections and research facilities. Roots trace back to the founding of the Smithsonian Institution. |
| Artistic Value | Includes art from ancient Egypt and the Near East, classical antiquity, European Old Masters, and American, modern, and contemporary works. | Ocean Terrace Caf {1.5 million works of samples, 30 million insects, 4.5 million plants, and 7 million fish. Museum is committed to providing inclusive experiences for all visitors. |
| Key takeaway 1 | The Met offers a vast and diverse collection spanning 5,000 years of art from around the world. | The Smithsonian boasts an extensive collection of over 148 million specimens and objects. |
| Key takeaway 2 | The Met provides a wide range of educational programs for various age groups. | The Smithsonian offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. |
| Key takeaway 3 | The Met is accessible to visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and assistive listening devices. | The Smithsonian provides inclusive experiences for all visitors with comprehensive accessibility features. |
| Key takeaway 4 | The Met's location in Central Park is easily accessible by public transportation. | The Smithsonian is located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., with access to public transportation. |
| Key takeaway 5 | The Met offers membership benefits, including free admission, priority access, and discounts. | The Smithsonian offers membership benefits, including exclusive access to events and discounts. |
| Key takeaway 6 | The Met has a suggested admission fee, but visitors can pay what they wish. | Admission to the Smithsonian is free. |