The Met Cloisters

I photographed an engagement session at The Met Cloisters and it ended up being one of the most peaceful, beautiful shoots I’ve had in NYC. The entire space feels like you’ve stepped into another time — stone archways, quiet courtyards, lush gardens, and little corners of soft, natural light everywhere.

The grounds are incredibly well maintained, and even though it’s a popular spot, you can always find areas that feel private and calm. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the mix of architecture and greenery gives you so much variety without ever feeling crowded or chaotic.

Walking through the cloisters, the gardens, and the pathways around Fort Tryon Park creates the perfect flow for a session. Every turn has a new backdrop — from cobblestone paths to medieval columns to vibrant garden spaces.

It’s truly one of the most romantic and timeless locations in the city, and every visit reminds me why I love photographing here.

One of the hidden gems in new york city. Such a unique museum experience. The place feels calm and almost otherworldly. Amazing medieval pieces and gorgeous views of the Hudson.

Got to visit this historic landmark monastic museum up in the mountains just north of the city for the first time in years and the first time in my wheelchair and while I was very impressed by their new exhibit Spectrum of Desire: Love, Sex and Gender in the Middle Ages and it was the perfect exhibit in the classic gothic setting of the space.

However, I learned the extent of their accessibility in the centuries old space. It’s surrounded by beautiful forests and trees but unfortunately impossible to easily access. Good thing the space itself is awesome like the beautiful courtyard and main museum space.

One of those places that transports you as soon as you walk in. It didn't feel like your typical museum at all and I loved that about it. A medieval castle in The Bronx is not what I expected but the grounds and architecture are stunning. Beautiful views of the Hudson and walking around outside is a must. On a sunny day the stained glass is a definitely a highlight.

I was lucky enough to catch Spectrum of Desire: Love, Sex, and Gender in the Middle Ages and what a thought-provoking exhibit it was. Beautifully curated and so many incredible pieces.

Also loved the Ofrenda installation in honor of children and the violence they endure worldwide. It was extremely touching and fitting for these times and in celebration of el Día de Muertos. The concept was so inspiring and it was quite the juxtaposition to the main collection.

Definitely give yourself a couple hours to enjoy it all and take your time through it. The garden near the cafe is great for sketching, reading, or writing. It's shady and chilly in colder months but still easy to enjoy. I can't wait to come back and add this to my regular visits whenever I'm uptown.

Timeless Tranquility at The Met Cloisters

Tucked away in Upper Manhattan’s Fort Tryon Park, The Met Cloisters offers a stunning escape from the buzz of the city. Visiting on a sunny Sunday afternoon in early August, we found the museum bathed in golden light — a perfect complement to its unique blend of indoor galleries and lush outdoor gardens.

Housed in a beautifully restored medieval-style convent, the architecture alone is worth the visit. The museum gracefully fuses history, art, and nature, with winding, self-guided paths that lead you through centuries of human creativity. Highlights include intricately carved religious sculptures, tapestries, and extraordinary hand-crafted artifacts that evoke both reverence and awe.

What truly stood out were the stained glass windows scattered throughout — radiant pieces that lit up the ancient stone interiors with color and life. Equally impressive were the quiet cloistered gardens and the serene views over the Hudson River, which offered peaceful moments amid the crowds.

The museum does lean heavily on Christian religious art, which might not resonate with everyone. And while the space is thoughtfully designed, it can feel crowded at peak hours. Booking tickets in advance is smart, and parking can be limited, so plan accordingly.

Still, despite its popularity, The Met Cloisters remains a serene and enriching experience — a remarkable blend of art, architecture, and nature just a short ride from the heart of the city.