Central Park’s Metropolitan Museum Rooftop Gets Artificial Grass Makeover

New York City’s beloved Central Park recently underwent an eco-friendly change atop one of its most iconic museums. The Metropolitan Museum of Art unveiled a synthetic grass lawn on its Fifth Avenue rooftop, replacing real grass with a more sustainable alternative.

The iconic Central Park backdrop is now joined by about 11,500 square feet of artificial turf. The realistic-looking green blades are made from polyethylene, a soft plastic that mimics the look and texture of natural grass. This synthetic turf offers environmental benefits the Met sought for its outdoor space.

The artificial grass requires no watering, mowing or fertilizers which helps conserve resources. It also eliminates pesticide and herbicide runoff which could pollute nearby waterways and soil. The durable plastic grass blades withstand heat, cold and heavy foot traffic from crowds of rooftop visitors.

Museum officials say the synthetic turf will save an estimated 1 million gallons of water a year compared to maintaining a live lawn. It also reduces gas-powered groundskeeping that contributes to air pollution and climate change. The change is part of the Met’s broader sustainability initiatives.

While not everyone enjoys the look and feel of fake grass, the environmental savings are significant. The Metropolitan Museum’s rooftop also offers panoramic views of Central Park’s meadows where live grass still thrives. The contrast highlights how synthetic and natural grass can coincide in the same beautiful, iconic setting.

The artificial turf addition is seen as a test for wider adoption. If the rooftop installation succeeds, we may see more fake grass appear across Central Park and other green spaces around New York and beyond. This would allow parks to become greener in dry conditions, while supporting ecological goals.