As opera companies around the world try to remove the barriers that can inhibit newcomers, the Metropolitan Opera is experimenting with a literal approach. The Met plans to throw open its gates and welcome visitors to the front of the opera house for free on weekdays beginning next month, the company announced Thursday.

The plan calls for letting opera buffs and tourists give themselves self-guided tours of the front of the house. The visitors will be able to take selfies on the Met’s curving grand staircase or on its balcony overlooking Lincoln Center’s plaza and fountain, get a closer look at its famous crystal sputnik chandeliers, study the historical costumes that are on display and explore the exhibitions that the Met mounts on its lower level.

The auditorium, where rehearsals are held onstage nearly every day, will be closed, but a large television monitor will show what is happening live.

Other opera companies, including Teatro La Fenice in Venice, are open during the day for self-guided tours. The Met plans to offer written materials about the opera house and said that a tour guide would be available to discuss the company and the building. The program will start Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.