4PM: Head for the New American Wing Galleries of the Metropolitan Museum of Art which takes an interdisciplinary approach, showing paintings, sculptures and decorative arts side by side. Then move on to admire the coffered wooden ceilings and decorative arts collection of the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum.

If You’re a Clotheshorse: Kimono Style: The John C. Weber Collection. Comprising more than 60 outrageously delicate kimonos, along with dozens of other pieces of Japanese and Western fashion from the late Edo period (1615–1868) to today, this exquisite dive into the historical, cultural and technical aspects of kimonos will be a hit with everyone, whether they care about clothing or just like beautiful objects. Through Feb. 20, 2023

There are so many ways to explore the Met with kids. Recs for kids include the Egyptian art wing and impressive Temple of Dendur; Arms and Armor; the Roof Garden, which features a new installation every year; the Costume Institute's exhibits and the Sculpture Court. Plus: Asian, African and Oceanic art, Roman and Greek art, contemporary art, and works by so many masters, including Monet, O'Keefe, Vermeer, Rembrandt, Degas, Calder, Pollock, Goya and Van Gogh.

A staple in NYC, The Met is not to be overlooked as a classic first date spot for both art-lovers and casual viewers alike. Between the paintings, sculptures, and ever-changing exhibitions, you’ll never find yourself short on things to say. Take turns pointing out your favorite pieces and then sit down to compare over a cup of coffee (or gelato!) at Petrie Court, the on-site cafe.

This gorgeous, late 19th century neoclassical institution displays some of the finest examples of art—spanning from mummified royalty of ancient times to avant garde fashion couture. Don’t miss its new signature exhibition celebrating the museum's 150th anniversary, called “Making the Met, 1870-2020,” as well as The Costume Institute’s “About Time: Fashion and Duration,” which this year’s canceled Met Gala was based on.

Not to overexpose you to more of the most beautiful sights in the country, but after your tour of the Met Museum, there’s one more stunning scene to check out. The Cantor Roof Garden Bar overlooks Central Park and the skyline beyond it, surrounding you with the natural beauty of New York City that’s often overlooked in favor of urban splendor. Food and drinks are available, but you’re also welcome to freely sit alone with nothing but your thoughts as you watch the sunset.

There was a time, in the area now occupied by the Met, where deer grazed—it was an early incarnation of the Central Park Zoo. Important people like Abraham Lincoln contributed money to build the zoo, but it came together with piecemeal donations in the 1860s, including two African Cape buffalo General Sherman picked up on his march through the South. The animals were stored under the Arsenal, a munitions depot built in the mid-18th century, until permanent lodging was built in 1870.