NEW YORK—The Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the city’s most esteemed art institutions, has come under criticism for its ambiguous admissions policy.
Tourists and newcomers to the city—and even longtime residents—get confused by the pricing system. The large sign lists admission prices for Adults, Seniors, Students, and Children at the museum entranceway. On the sign is the word “recommended” in small lettering.
Filip Saska and Tomas Nadrchal, both of the Czech Republic, and Stephen Michelman, of Manhattan, say the museum is intentionally misdirecting people through the misleading signs and fraudulent marketing, according to the New York Daily News. They have launched a class action lawsuit, filed in the state court in Manhattan.
“We have obtained evidence which makes clear to us that the museum is actively misleading the public and that members of museum’s leadership are fully aware of that fact,” said lawyer Michael Hiller.
A survey by two museum members involved in the lawsuit of more than 360 visitors to the museum found more than 85 percent believed they were required to pay to gain entrance.
Two persons who spoke to the Daily News said they didn’t realize how the admission policy works.
“I paid $12, the student price,” said Leandro Morone, 30, a student from Argentina.
